> Cinematic Adventures: Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strike Back
>  by extremeenigma02
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Visions of the Past
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the deepest, darkest corner of Wild Space lies the frozen planet of Hoth. The desolate ice planet has very few life forms capable of living in such frigid terrain the planet offered. A gigantic star destroyer, The Infernus, flew slowly in the direction of the snowy planet. Aboard the gigantic battleship, a certain cyborg general stood staring out at the current location of the rebel scum. A lone imperial soldier cautiously approached the monstrous machine.

“General Grievous sir,” He spoke nervously.

The recently restored Grievous slowly turned and locked his yellowish serpentine eyes toward the frightened Imperial.

“What do you want?” He spat.

“Um—y-you told me t-to report to you the moment Hoth was in sight sir.”

“And?”

“Hoth is in sight… sir.”

Grievous growled in irritation as he quickly approached the horrified man and snatched him by the neck in his metallic grip.

“You think me so blind I do not realize the obvious?” Grievous growled.

The sudden sound of the command center hatch doors sliding open caused the entire room to face its direction. Slowly entering the room, a menacing figure clad in black entered. Her robes flowed behind her as she walked, her masked face providing a stone-cold impression while she observed the entire room. Grievous quickly threw the Imperial soldier down to the ground before kneeling to one robotic knee in her presence. When he looked up, he stared right into the masked face of the Emperor’s fury: Darth Seraphina. 

“What need you have for me General Grievous?” Seraphina asked, in a robotic voice.

“We are rapidly approaching the surface of Hoth, Darth Seraphina,” Grievous responded. “Within moments, our troops will be on the ground ready to find the rebel base.”

Seraphina looked up toward the gigantic window overlooking the frozen world. Three long years passed since the Battle of Yavin and the complete annihilation of the Death Star. Three years since she was abandoned, left for dead by those she thought she could trust. Three long years since…

NO!!!

She’d never allow herself to dwell on events of the past. No need to remember anything that’s meaningless to her now. She merely turned back toward General Grievous.

“Take the Three Sisters and lead the search along the surface,” She ordered. “Weed out the Rebels one by one if you must. Should you run across the targets I have ordered, just remember one thing: Twilight Sparkle is mine to kill.”

Grievous bowed his head, acknowledging the lady Sith’s command.

“Worry not Lady Seraphina,” Grievous assured. “We will flush the rebel cowards out of hiding and destroy them all. Should we encounter any of your targets, we shall leave them to your will.”

“Then I leave you to your invasion, General,” She said. “I have other matters to attend to.”

Seraphina nodded her head begore quickly turning her way out the command center. A personal entourage of Stormtroopers followed closely behind the dark lady as she made her way toward the shuttle hangar. Of course, the Infernus was her own personal flagship granted to her by her master. Yet she rarely bothered herself with matters of the war with the rebellion. She left the ship and the soldiers to Grievous and the Inquisitors. She only cared about one thing: Revenge. Until said time came to play, she had matters of her own to attend to. Boarding one of the shuttle transports, the pilot turned to her. 

“Where shall we be bringing you today, my lady?” He asked.

“Korriban…”

<> 

A pair of moderate cyan eyes quickly snapped open, as Sunset Shimmer gasped for breath. Sitting up and breathing heavily, she clutched her aching head. The last thing she remembered was the pain and anger over losing her friends. She recalled touching the ancient holocon Palpatine presented her. After that… nothing.

Slowly getting her bearings, she raised her head and looked around. She saw before her eyes the most bizarre sight she’d ever seen. It seemed as though she was in the deepest reaches of space, yet something wasn’t right. All around her were ancient Jedi and Sith warships, all frozen in battle. Many tall buildings stood crumbling into ruins around her. The grounds upon which she stood were rocky and dark. It’s as though she was stuck in some forgotten universe. 

“At last, you’ve awoken…”

The sudden deep voice nearly made Sunset jump out of her skin. Turning to her side, she noticed a figure standing beside her. The figure looking down at her resembled an old man, with graying hair and beard garbed in some strange silverish white armor. He held his hands behind his back, standing with the poise and yet cruel nature of a war general.



“I have longed for the chance to speak with you personally, Sunset Shimmer,” He spoke.

Sunset slowly started to back away in fear, as the old man slowly approached her.

“W-W-Who are y-you?” She trembled. “W-Where am I?”

The old man merely released a low chuckle, as he ceased in his tracks. 

“You seek truth,” He said simply. “This is precisely why I’ve come to speak with you.”

Sunset stopped trying to scurry away; instead, she face the man greatly confused.

“I-I don’t understand,” She admitted.

“I sense your confusion and trepidation,” The man said plainly. “I can assure that your worries are unnecessary. You have nothing to fear.”

“That’s debatable,” Sunset replied, standing up.

“Once again, the old man chuckled with amusement.

“I have gone by many names, spanning countless generations,” He explained. “Once, I was but a humble man. Now, I stand before you a conqueror… a leader… a God. You may know me simply as Valkorion: Immoral Emperor of Zakuul.”

If Sunset wasn’t confused before, she most certainly was now. What was this old man talking about? Sunset found it difficult to understand, seeing how he was speaking almost in riddles.

“What’re you talking about?” She asked. “Where are we? What is going on?”

“You seek answers, which you shall have,” Valkorion assured. “We best move on if you are to begin your ascent to glory.”

Now it has officially become too much for Sunset Shimmer. Either the man must have been crazy… or at least gravely mistaken.

“No… I’m not going anywhere with you!” Sunset objected. “I don’t even know you… nor what the heck is going on. I need to find my way back to my friends.”

Sunset turned to walk away, when suddenly Valkorion himself stopped her in her tracks. The man now appeared right before her.

“And just where exactly are you trying to return to?” He asked. “Have you no concept of ‘where’ you are?”

“No idea,” Sunset admitted. “But I don’t plan on listening to you for another second!”

She brushed past him, but each time he always appeared in front of her. Eventually, she grew tired and groaned to herself.

“Try as you may dear, but there is no escaping the recesses of our own mind…”

That statement made Sunset froze in place. She turned back toward Valkorian, now eager to listen.

“What do you mean my own mind?” She asked.

“The moment you touched the holocron, it sent you deep within the confines of your subconscious,” He explained. “You are now no more than a prisoner in your own head. I may provide you an escape, but only if you are willing to hear what I have to teach you.”

Sunset shook her head quickly, looking around the endless void. Perhaps what Valkorian was saying was true. If it were, there was truly no escaping her own mind. If he had a ‘means’ to escape, the best she could do was play along and hear what he has to say. At this point, she really had no other choice.

“What must I do?” She asked, sighing.

Valkorion smirked slyly, as he walked alongside the young girl.

“Follow me,” He instructed.

The old man walked along the twisting, crooked rocky terrain. Sunset did her best to follow him along the way. Eventually coming upon a rocky cliff that overlooked what seemed to be the Stormtroopers’ ground assault. Sunset caught up as she looked around her environment.

“What is all this?” She asked confused.

“What you see is a vision of time long passed,” Valkorion explained. “A time when the galaxy was thrown into an endless abyss of chaos. Nearly three thousand years ago, the Jedi and Sith were at constant war with one another. Though I ruled as Emperor of the Sith at the time, I saw the empire as no more than a failed experiment.”

This made Sunset froze in fear, as she turned toward the man.

“Y-Y-You were the Sith Emperor?” She asked shakily.

“The Empire was nothing more than a small delay of my true focus,” Valkorion answered. “Slowly crumbling away, Sith bickering amongst themselves. Hence why I maintained silence for so long. What purpose was there saving a doomed order? I realized in order to gain what I sought that a change had to be made. As it also means… for you.”

Valkorion pointed toward the canyon below, drawing Sunset toward the sea of Stormtroopers. As she observed closely, she noticed her friends fighting at the epicenter with lightsabers.

“Is that—”

“Your so-called ‘friends’,” Valkorion interrupted. “Nothing more than chains binding you.”

He pointed toward each and every single one of them. Staring with Applejack…

“There’s the conscientious farmer…”

… then Rainbow Dash…

“An overzealous rogue…”

… then Fluttershy…

“The cowardly caretaker…”

… then Rarity…

“A glory seeking designer…”

… then Pinkie Pie…

“The mentally unstable baker…”

… and finally Twilight…

“And… the narcissistic royal.”

Sunset looked on, as Valkorion spoke.

“Why is it you waste time with those lesser than you? Obligation… pity… or simply vanity?”

The more he spoke, the more his words cut through Sunset’s thoughts. She suddenly shook her head, glaring at him.

“You’re wrong!” She yelled. “They’re my friends. They’ve stood by me even after all the horrible things I’ve done. They accept me… they love me… for who I am.”

“You’ve always been far superior to them in every way, yet delude yourself believing you are equals,” Valkorion countered calmly. “You could have them all bending their knees to you in submission, if only you’d allow yourself to accept… the truth…”

Valkorion said no more, as he continued down the path leading towards who knows where. Sunset looked across the valley, the image of all her friends in battle. She allowed only a single stray tear to slide down her face before she followed Valkorion into the unknown.

<> 

An Imperial probe robot zoomed toward the planet Hoth, landing onto it’s ice-covered surface. An explosion marked the point of impact. A weird mechanical sound rose above the whining of the wind. The strange probe robot, with several extended sensors, emerged from the smoke-shrouded crater. The ominous mechanical probe floated across the snow plain before vanishing into the distance.

A small figure galloped across the windswept ice slope. The bundled rider was mounted on a large gray snow lizard, a Tauntaun. Curving plumes of snow rose from beneath the speeding paws of the two-legged beast.

The rider galloped up a slope, reining his lizard to a stop. Pulling off his protective goggles, Luke Skywalker noticed something in the sky. He took a pair of electro-binoculars from his utility belt and through them sees smoke rising from where the probe robot crashed. The wind whipped at Luke’s fur-lined cap as he activated a comlink transmitter. His tauntaun shifted and moaned nervously beneath him.

“Echo Three to Echo Seven,” Linke spoke, through commlink. “Han, old buddy, do you read me?”

After some slight static, a familiar voice is heard.

“Loud and clear, kid,” Han answered, over commlink. “What’s up?”

“Well, I finished my circle,” Luke informed. “I don’t pick up any life readings.”

“There isn’t enough life on this ice cube to fill a space cruiser. The sensors are placed, I’m going back.”

“Right. I’ll see you shortly. There’s a meteorite that hit the ground near here. I want to check it out. It won’t take long.” 

Luke clicked off his transmitter, reigning back on his nervous lizard. He pat the beast along the head to calm it.

“Hey, steady girl,” Luke soothed. “What’s the matter? You smell something?”

Luke took a small device from his belt, proceeding to adjust it when suddenly a large shadow fell over him from behind. He heard a monstrous howl and turned to see an eleven-foot-tall shaper towering over him. It is a Wampa Ice Creature, lunging at him ferociously.

“Aaargh!!!” Luke screamed.

Luke grabbed for his pistol but was hit flat in the face by a huge white claw. He fell unconscious into the snow and in a moment the terrified screams of the Tauntaun were cut short by the horrible snap of a neck being broken. The Wampa Ice Creature grabbed Luke by one ankle, dragging him across the frozen plain.

<> 

Meanwhile, a stalwart figure rode his Tauntaun toward the entrance of an enormous ice cave. Rebel troopers rushed about unloading supplies and otherwise securing their new base. The rider, Han Solo, swung off his lizard and pulled off his goggles. 

He walked into the main hanger deck toward the Millennium Falcon, which was parked among several fighters. Mechanics, R2 units, and various other droids hurry about. Han stopped at the Millennium Falcon where his Wookiee copilot, Chewbacca, was welding on a central lifter. Chewie stopped his work and lifted his face shield, growling an irritated greeting to his boss.

“Chewie!” Han called out.

The Wookie grumbled a reply.

“All right don’t lose your temper. I’ll come right back and give you a hand.”

Chewbacca put his mask back on and returned to his welding as Han left.

Within the rebel base was a makeshift command center set up in a blasted area of thick ice. The low-ceilinged room was a beehive of activity. Controllers, troops, and droids move about setting up electronic equipment and monitoring radar signals. General Rieekan straightened up from a console at Han’s approach.

“Solo?” The General saluted.

“No sign of life out there, General,” Han reported. “The sensors are in place. You’ll know if anything comes around.”

“Commander Skywalker reported in yet?”

“No. He’s checking out a meteorite that hit near him.”

“With all the meteor activity in this system,” Rieekan spoke, indicating the screen. “It’s going to be difficult to spot approaching ships.”

Taking a deep breath, Han blurted out what’s on his mind.

“General, I’ve got to leave. I can’t stay anymore.”

Princess Leia, standing at a console nearby, was dressed in a short white combat jacket and pants. Her hair was braided across her hair in a Nordic fashion. She overheard their conversation and seemed somewhat distressed. Of course, she’s not the only one… as the Equestrian Heroes, Twilight Sparkle’s closest friends (All dressed for the winter), also heard the banter… with a few exceptions.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Rieekan sighed.

“Well, there’s a price on my head,” Han explained. “If I don’t pay off Jabba the Hut, I’m a dead man.”

“A death mark’s not an easy thing to live with. You’re a good fighter, Solo. I hate to lose you.”

“Thank you, General.”

He turned toward Leia and the group, as Rieekan moved away.

“So it’s true then ain’t it?” Applejack spoke firmly. “Captain Han Solo has decided to leave us.”

It was not so much a question, as it was more of a statement. As if somehow, Applejack knew the answer.

“Yeah…” Han spoke. “Well, I guess this is it.”

“I guess…” Rainbow turned away.

“That’s right,” Leia added.

The group turned toward Leia and they can plainly see she’s angry. Han, seeing no warmth offered to him, shook his head, and adopted a sarcastic tone.

“Well, don’t get all mushy on me,” Han retorted coolly. “So long, kids.”

“Goodbye…” Fluttershy spoke sadly.

Han walked away into the quiet corridor adjoining the command center. Leia stewed for a moment, then hurried after him. The girls could tell where this was going.

“Oh dear!” Rarity sighed. “Not again…”

“Come on y’all,” Applejack gestured.

The girls quickly followed Leia, who rushed toward Han.

“Han!” Leia shouted.

Han stopped in the corridor, before turning to face Leia and the group.

“Yes, Your Highnessness?” Han asked sarcastically.

“I thought you decided to stay.”

“Yeah! Whatever happened to, ‘If I’m going to be punished just like you rebels, I might as well be a Rebel…’?” Pinkie Pie asked, holding out the script. “Continuity…”

GIMME THAT!!!

*A gloved hand quickly took the script back*

“Well, the bounty hunter we ran into on Ord Mantell changed my mind,” Han replied.

“Yeah well… we took care of that bum didn’t we?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Okay they nearly got us that time… but to be fair he cheated!”

“Ya could’ve just gone back ta Tatooine and paid yer debt when you had the chance,” Applejack suggested.

“I’ve been trying to!” Han insisted. “But things got in the way…”

“Han, we need you!” Leia insisted.

“We?”

“Yes.”

“Oh, what about you need?”

“I need?” Leia asked, mystified. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“You probably don’t,” Han shook, fed up.

“U-U-Um excuse me, Captain Solo,” Fluttershy spoke quietly. “Pardon me for not paying attention but… what precisely is Princess Leia supposed to know?”

“Come on! Is it that obvious?” Han asked Fluttershy. “The princess wants me to stay because of the way she feels about me.”

“Yes. You’re a great help to us,” Leia listed. “You’re a natural leader…”

“Um Leia darling,” Rarity spoke up. “I don’t think that’s what Han’s talking about.”

“Yeah—seems Han’s kinda—sort of—ya know?” Applejack stammered, pushing her fingers.

Leia turned toward the Equestrians, then stared at Han. Slowly understanding… she laughed.

“You’re imagining things!” Leia argued.

“Am I?” Han asked. “Then why are you following me? Afraid I was going to leave without giving you a goodbye kiss?”

“Give her a break, Han!” Rainbow grumbled. 

“I’d just as soon as kiss a Wookiee!” Leia retorted.

“I can arrange that,” Han argued. “You could use a good kiss!”

Angrily, Han strode down the corridor as Leia and the others stared after him. While Leia stewed over the argument, a sigh escaped Applejack’s lips as she looked over her shoulder thinking about something else… or in this case, ‘someone’.

<> 

Sitting over the opening of the base, overlooking the endless plains of ice as far as the eyes can see, Twilight Sparkle sat silently as the winter air made her hair sway. She just stared out toward the cold and up the heavens of the Hoth sky, ignoring the bit of frost clung to her glasses. In her hands, she absent-mindedly pat her one companion who’s been at her side since coming here… Spike the Dragon… except now he’s a dog. Spike looked up a few times, but Twilight’s expression was difficult to read. Yet he could tell this much… his friend was hurting.

“Hey!”

Snapping out of her stupor, Twilight Sparkle slowly turned to the side as Storm Shield, wrapped in a heavy cloak, approached the pair. In each of his hands, he carried a piping hot container with a steaming liquid inside.

“Thought you could use a hot drink,” Storm offered. “Wouldn’t want to catch your death out here.”

Twilight Sparkle looked down toward the hot mug in Storm’s right hand, pondering for a few seconds. Then eventually, Twilight Sparkle carefully grasps the container by the handle.

“Thanks…” Twilight spoke softly.

Twilight takes a slow sip from the mug, feeling the scolding hot liquid race down her throat. A heavy sigh escapes her lips as she watches her breath take off into the winter atmosphere. For a moment, the three just sit together (Spike on Twilight’s lap) as they gazed out toward the Hoth plains.

“I feel terrible, Storm…” Twilight spoke, breaking the silence.

“Yeah I know what you mean,” Storm nodded. “Hoth’s not exactly the place I’d ever want to go to for a winter vacation. And we thought the frozen north of Equestria was cold…”

“You know that’s not what I’m talking about, Storm…”

“… I know,” Storm nodded, sadly. “You’re still thinking about Sunset aren’t you?”

“How can I not?” Twilight asked sadly. “It’s been three years since we’ve seen her Storm… three years. You said Starkiller was going to bring her to us.”

A look of regret started to form on Storm’s face. He did not mean to give Twilight Sparkle or her friends too much hope, after the Sith Lord gave the message to him from Sunset herself. Three years had passed since they got her holo-communicator… and even though they barely aged (Or not at all) the absence of their one friend has taken its toll on everyone. But out of all of them, Twilight took it the hardest.

“I’ve been trying to reach out and get in contact with Starkiller, trying to figure out the delay,” Storm explained. “Three years, I used the force trying to reach out to him… but for whatever reason he’s very difficult to track. Then again, he is a Sith Lord. When the Jedi were on the hunt for Sith like him, they either stand and fight… or hide as far from the Jedi as possible.”

“I can’t help but feel that it’s all my fault,” Twilight sighed, tearing up.

“Don’t talk that way Princess…”

“But it’s true!” Twilight insisted. “If I had held onto Sunset just a little longer, least she’d be with us right now.”

“To be fair Twilight,” Spike spoke up. “I was the one who touched the television controls instead of telling you about it. So it’s more my fault that my curiosity got the better of me… again.”

Twilight Sparkle did not argue with Spike, instead she just stared silently at him and pat him atop his head. As if she were saying to him, ‘It’s okay’. Then she feels a hand gently clasp her shoulder. She turned and Storm Shield gazed toward her with a reassuring glance.

“As soon as we leave Hoth, we will find Sunset Shimmer,” Storm Shield promised. “I don’t know ‘when’ and I don’t know ‘how’, but we’re going to get Sunset back even if we have to scour this entire universe to do it.”

Twilight Sparkle smiled sadly toward Storm Shield, tears slowly falling from her face. Storm saw that her tears started to turn to tiny icicles latching onto her cheeks. Carefully and gently, Storm reached out and flicked the ice off her face. Though Twilight twitched slightly, she kept quiet and allowed the Prince of Peace to finish.

“Better?” Storm asked.

“… Better,” Twilight nodded, smiling.

<> 

A familiar stream of beeps and whistles heralded the approach of R2-D2 and C3PO, who appeared around a corner and moved along an ice wall toward the main hangar.

“Don’t try to blame me!” 3PO argued. “I didn’t ask you to turn on the thermal heater. I merely commented that it was freezing in the princess’ chamber. But it’s supposed to be frezzing. How are we going to dry out all her clothes? I really don’t know.”

R2 beeped a stream of protesting whistles.

“Oh, switch off!” 3PO groaned.

Suddenly, the rest of the Equestrian Heroes race into the two droids.

“Yo guys!” Rainbow called out. “Any of you two seen Han?”

“I thought he’d be going back to his ship, Miss Dash,” 3PO replied.

“We need to speak with him right away,” Rarity spoke. “Princess Leia said it’s urgent.”

“If we hurry, they didn’t leave yet,” Applejack assured. “C’mon y’all!”

With Applejack at the lead, the rest of the girls and the robots followed them toward the main hanger. They eventually come to a stop at Han Solo’s space freighter. Han and Chewie struggled with their central lifters.

“Why did you take this apart now?” Han argued. “I’m trying to get us out of here and you pull both of these!”

Chewie grumbled in irritation.

“Excuse me, sir!” 3PO called out.

“Put them back together right now!” Han ordered Chewie.

“Might we have a word with you, please?” 3PO asked.

“What do you want?” Han faced the group, irritated. 

“Sorry to bother you Han,” Fluttershy apologized. “But Princess Leia’s been trying to reach you on the communicator.”

“I turned it off! I don’t want to talk to her.”

“So you’re ghosting princesses now?” Pinkie replied, shaking her head. “Ooh… probably not the best idea.”

“Anyways, Princess Leia told us to ask you about Luke,” Rarity continued. “Apparently he hasn’t come back yet, and she doesn’t know where he is.”

“I don’t know where he is,” Han grumbled.

“Nobody knows where he is,” 3PO emphasized.

“What do you guys mean ‘nobody knows’?”

The group turned toward fading light at the entrance of the ice cave. Sure enough Twilight Sparkle, along with Storm Shield and Spike, approached the group after overhearing their conversation.

“Apparently Luke’s still out in the snow,” Applejack explained. “Ain’t nobody’s heard where he’s been.”

“Oh no…!” Storm groaned, clutching his forehead. “And it’s going to be dark out there pretty soon; Hoth is not a safe place to travel at night.”

Han seeing the night sky slowly forming along the planet, he jumped off the lift and the group followed.

“Deck officer,” Han shouted. “Deck Officer!”

“Excuse me, sir,” 3PO spoke up. “Might I inqu—”

Han abruptly clasped his hand over 3PO’s mouth, as the deck officer approached.

“Yes, sir?” The Deck Officer asked.

“Do you know where Commander Skywalker is?” Han questioned.

“I haven’t seen him. It’s possible he came in through the south entrance.”

“You better find out for sure,” Storm suggested. “It’s getting darker by the second out there.”

“Yes, sir,” The Deck Officer saluted.

The deck officer left in a hurry, as Han took his hand off 3PO’s mouth.

“Excuse me, sir,” 3PO spoke. “Might I inquire what’s going on?”

“Why not?” Han asked.

“Impossible man. Come along, R2, let’s find Princess Leia. Between ourselves, I think Master Luke is in considerable danger.”

<> 

Later, the deck officer and his assistant hurried toward Han and the Equestrian Heroes as they entered the tunnel.

“Commander Skywalker hasn’t come in through the south entrance,” The Deck Officer informed. “He might have forgotten to check in.”

“No way,” Twilight Sparkle shook. “I’d know if everyone checked in.”

“It’s true…” Spike spoke up. “Never argue with Twilight when it comes to organization.”

“Are the speeders ready?” Han asked.

“Not yet,” The Deck Officer shook. “We’re having some trouble adapting them to the cold.”

“Guess it’s a good thing we didn’t bring your speeder with us, huh Stormy?” Rainbow chuckled nervously.

Storm turned toward Rainbow Dash with a look of annoyance.

“Don’t mock me…”

“Then we’ll have to go out on Tauntauns,” Han spoke.

“We’ll go?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“By we, I mean ‘me’,” Han replied. “Can’t risk putting you kids at risk, or the princess will have my head!”

“Hello!” Rainbow frowned, pointing at Twilight. “We have a princess too buddy!”

“Sir, the temperature’s dropping too rapidly,” The Deck Officer reminded. 

“That’s right, and my friend’s out in it,” Han retorted.

“I’ll cover sector twelve,” The assistant officer volunteered. “Have com-control set screen alpha.”

Han pushed through the group and proceeded to mount a Tauntaun.

“Han, you’re not going to have a lot of time out there!” Storm called out. “The tauntaun will freeze before you even reach the first marker. And even if somehow you manage to pass it, there’s dangerous obstacles out there that could kill you!”

“Then I’ll see you in hell!” Han shouted.

Han maneuvered his mount out the cave, as the Equestrian Heroes watched him race into the dark bitter night.

“He better know what he’s doing,” Spike hoped.

“So… do we just stand here all night or… what?” Fluttershy asked, confused.
> A New Apprentice
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The ancient Sith home world of Korriban glowed its usual bright orange glow as an imperial shuttle zoomed in toward the planet’s surface. When it finally reached the surface, it came slowly down along the red-sanded terrain. The rear cargo bay door opened, allowing Darth Seraphina and her entourage of Stormtroopers to emerge. Seraphina glanced around the birthplace of her order and couldn’t help but feel slightly nostalgic. Three years passed since she last came her, yet it only felt as though it were yesterday.

Walking slowly forward, her dark cloak billowing behind her, Darth Seraphina made her way towards the Sith Academy. Walking through the halls of the ancient training grounds of the great Sith, its path certainly held an aura. Breathing in through the receptors of her mask, she could taste the darkness radiating from this place.

“This is certainly an unexpected surprise.”

The voice drew Seraphina toward her right where a figure slowly approached. The figure was that of an elderly Sith woman with gray hair and a rather wrinkled complexion. She wore dark bluish purple robes connected to a facial apparatus. The one distinguishing feature surrounding this woman were the set of blood red Sith eyes.



“Overseer Ragate,” Seraphina acknowledged. “We finally meet at last.”

The elderly Sith bent her knees in the presence of the Emperor’s Fury.

“Darth Seraphina, so divine to make your acquaintance,” Ragate reciprocated.

The elderly lady rose back to her feet, proceeding to lead Seraphina and her guards through the academy.

“What can you tell me of the acolyte you’ve been training?” Seraphina asked.

“Not much is really known of her other than what we’ve been told my lady,” Ragate answered. “She was brought to this planet when she was fourteen years of age. The soldiers found her on Nar Shaddaa working as a dancer for a Hutt by name of Wuttle. They witnessed a man mercilessly beat her when she refused ‘service’ to him. In the blink of an eye, she sent the man flying backward before crushing his scrawny neck with the force. Quite satisfying, I must say.”

“How long was she on Nar Shaddaa?”

“Since her first breath, I’m told. Stolen from her mother’s arms before she even opened her eyes and sold to a slaver. When she started walking, they fit her with a shock collar and from that day forth became a slave. As she grew older, her beauty grew stronger which ultimately led to her being sold to the Hutt. The moment she demonstrated her force powers, she broke her chains, killed the Hutt, and was brought here to Korriban. She has been under my tutelage since.”

As they walked, Seraphina grew increasingly impressed by the things the overseer was telling her. To demonstrate such raw Sith talent at such a young age, certainly that’s something to notice.

“I’m certain you’ve received your orders from the Emperor?” Seraphina asked.

“Indeed I have,” Ragate nodded. “She’s currently training in my office as we speak. I’m certain she will not disappoint you.”

“For your sake… you had best be right,” Seraphina threatened.

The overseer led the entourage to her office where practice dummies scattered in pieces along the ground. The sounds of struggle lured them to the far side of the room, a sight which truly interested Darth Seraphina. A young alien girl, a Twi’lek to be specific, was currently dismantling a practice dummy with a training war blade. The girl seemed at least eighteen, with skin oddly pale for a Twi’lek. Her two lekku tendrils had a form of strange black design, falling gracefully down her back as she worked. Much like herself and Ragate, the girl also had a pair of red Sith eyes. Her appearance most definitely fearsome in Seraphina’s eyes.



The Twi’lek immediately stopped her assault on the dummies when she felt the presence of others around her. Turning over her shoulder, she noticed the entourage standing there and looking at her with fascination. Slowly turning to face them, she approached them and stood directly before Seraphina. It seemed as though the two locked eyes, even from those behind the mask, and the girl slowly melt before her.

“Do you have a name child?” Seraphina asked.

The girl looked up slowly for a moment before bowing her head again.

“Demitria,” She answered.

“Rise Demitria,” Seraphina commanded.

Demetria did as she was told, slowly rising back to her feet. Seraphina slowly stalked around the Twi’lek, looking her up and down as she did. When she fully circled around her, she turned toward Ragate.

“I would like to see a demonstration of her abilities myself,” She said.

Ragate gave no response, but merely nodded her head. Seraphina looked toward one of the troopers in her group.

“You, step forward,” She pointed to one.

The trooper looked between the dark lady and the acolyte before slowly making his way forward. Seraphina turned back toward Demitria.

“I want to see exactly what you’re capable of,” She explained. “Demonstrate your powers on this trooper.”

This made the trooper snap his head in the Sith’s direction.

“WHAT?!” He yelled.

Without a second thought, Demitria shot her arm out and a huge blast of force lightning zapped from her fingers. The poor trooper screamed in agony as the lightning coursed through his body. Seraphina stood watching the scene of torture with wicked satisfaction. To this evil Sith lady was once a kind-hearted teenage girl is utterly shocking. Finally Seraphina cut the Twi’lek off, having seen enough.

“Impressive work child,” Seraphina complimented. “However, you must demonstrate more to impress me. Many Sith Lords have the ability of force lightning. If you wish to be my apprentice, you must demonstrate something never before seen in Sith history.”

Demitria turned back to the stormtrooper, who was having difficulty standing up due to the immense amount of force lightning he endured. Demitria grinned maliciously at the challenge, remember the anger from all the years of slavery under the fat Hutt. All the things he made her do, the things she was forced into, it sickened her to the core. Focusing all her energy into that anger, the very air around her seemed to freeze. The trooper before her seemingly levitated off the ground. Not only rising off the ground, but the ten other stormtroopers too. All of them seemed completely immobilized as they floated off the ground.

And then… it happened.

The armor they worse slowly began to cave into itself. The troopers screamed internally as their insides were crushed within their own armor. It all happened within the expanse of a single moment and soon as Demitria broke her focus, the troopers all fell to the ground dead. Darth Seraphina looked over the many dead Stormtroopers on the ground and smiled with sinister satisfaction. Looking over at Overseer Ragate, she nodded in confirmation.

“It seems I found my new apprentice,” She said.

She turned to face the young Twi’lek, who in turn faced her.

“Join me in darkness, and I shall impart all the knowledge and wisdom of the Empire upon you.”

Demitria nodded her head slowly.

“What do you wish of me, my master?” She asked.

Seraphina looked between Ragate and her new apprentice, as a perfect idea to showcase her loyalty came to her.

“Your first order in my charge… kill the overseer.”

“WHAT?!” Ragate yelled.

“Yes master…” Demitria agreed.

Ragate quickly turned to run but didn’t make it very far when she was lifted off the ground through Demitria’s force power. The Twi’lek used all her might through the force to hurl the Overseer repeatedly into the office walls. She finally let the dead overseer fall limp to the ground before facing her master. The demented Seraphina said no words, only nodding her approval. Gesturing the young girl to follow, they both emerged from the Sith academy before climbing into the shuttle. The ship lifted off the ground and proceeded back to the heart of the Empire itself.

<> 

The jagged face of a huge ice wall sat gloomily in the dim twilight of a Hoth day. Luke hung upside down, ankles frozen into icy stalactites, his extended arms within a foot of the snow floor. One side of his face was covered in a dried mask of frozen blood. Finally, he opened his eyes as a chilling moan of the hideous creature echoed off the gorge walls.

The beast itself was in a corner a short distance away from his pay. Eating the remains of Luke’s deceased Tauntaun, the creature’s blood hanging over its jaws and fur coat as he ate. The beast would soon eat the beast down to the bone and it won’t be long until Luke was next.

Seeing the severity of the situation, Luke pulled himself off, grabbed hold of his ankles, and futilely tried to unfasten the throngs. Exhausted, he dropped back into his hanging position. As he hung there, he spied the handle of his lightsaber lying near a pile of his discarded gear, about three feet out of reach. Recalling his training from the late Ben Kenobi, he focused on the saber and, as his hand strained toward the weapon, he squeezed his eyes tightly in concentration.

The ice creature had its fill of the Tauntaun and slowly loomed over toward Luke. With time against the young man, he channeled the focus until… the lightsaber jumped from the snow into Luke’s hand. The young warrior instantly ignited his sword, swinging up, and cut himself loose from the ice. He flopped to the snow in a heap as the startled creature moved back, his giant yellow eyes blinking. But then it roared and reached for Luke, who scrambled to his feet, swung his lightsaber, and sliced the monster’s arm off leaving the beast hollering in pain.

As the beast wailed over the loss of its right arm, Luke staggered from the gorge into the dark, snowy twilight. Weak and exhausted, he stumbled down a snowbank struggling to get back to the base against the blistering winds of Hoth’s icy air.

<> 

Meanwhile, a small, lone figure riding a Tauntaun raced through the hostile vastness of snow and cold. As it ran, the Tauntaun’s legs kicked up large clouds of snow and ice into the snowy air. Though the perils were great, the figure would not turn back until he found what he was looking for.

<> 

Outside the hanger, Storm Shield and the two droids kept watch over the snow blizzard, which grew erratically stronger. R2 stood in the falling snow, beeping worriedly. 3PO moved stiffly over to him.

“You must come along now, R2,” 3PO advised. “There’s really nothing more we can do. And my joints are freezing up.”

R2 beeped in response, long and low.

“Don’t say things like that!” 3PO argued. “Of course we’ll see Master Luke again. He’ll be quite all right, you’ll see.”

Storm Shield turned toward 3PO before he slowly approached the little droid.

“Stupid little short-circuit,” 3PO grumbled to himself. “He’ll be quite all right.”

“3PO does have a point R2,” Storm said. “Luke will turn up alright in the end. You’ll see.”

3PO turned back inside the main hanger as R2 mournfully kept his vigil. Storm looked over to see a herd of Tauntauns corralled by the entrance to the cave base. Suddenly, Storm felt a strange sensation wash over him. The presence of the force, but it wasn’t due to him or the girls. Whatever it was, it drew him toward the raging blizzard at the entrance. Quickly, he made his way over to the Tauntauns, quickly saddled up one, and dressed himself for the harsh conditions outside. Climbing onto the Tauntaun, he took one last look back at the base before deciding to keep this from Twilight and the others for a moment. It was much safer for them if he went alone.

“Come on then girl,” He spoke to the Tauntaun.

He gave a light kick to the side and the creature took off into the blizzard. Storm lead the beast through the blanket of white death in search of the strange force energy calling to him.

<> 

Later, the wind was blowing quite strongly now. Luke struggled to stay upright, but a blast of freezing snow knocked him over. He struggled to get up but found that he couldn’t. The young warrior from Tatooine dragged himself a couple feet before he eventually collapsed from exhaustion.

<> 

Back at the Rebel base, Princess Leia and the Equestrian heroes stood by the dark entrance, waiting for a sign of the two Rebel heroes. She shivered in the cold wind as, nearby, Chewie sat with his head in his hands. Feeling sympathetic for the big guy, Fluttershy sat beside Chewie patting him on the shoulder.

“Don’t be scared Chewie,” Fluttershy cooed softly. “Han will be back with Luke any minute. They just have to come back.”

In the background, R2 and 3PO move through the doors feeling just as anxious as their friends. A Rebel lieutenant approached Major Derlin, an officer keeping watch with the princess and the Equestrians.

“Sir, all the patrols are in,” The Lieutenant informed. “There’s still no contact from Skywalker or Solo.”

“Mistress Leia, everyone,” 3PO spoke. “R2 says he’s been quite unable to pick up any signals, although he does admit that his own range is far too weak to abandon all hope.”

Leia nodded an acknowledgment, but it’s clear she’s lost in thought.

“Couldn’t we just keep the doors open for a little longer?” Twilight Sparkle asked. “What if they get to the base and they can’t come in.”

“Your Highness, there’s nothing more we can do tonight,” Derlin spoke reluctantly. “The shield doors must be closed.”

“He’s right Twilight,” Leia sighed. “Do as you wish.”

The Equestrians looked on worriedly as the Major addressed his Lieutenant. 

“Close the doors.”

“Yes, sir.”

The worst fears of our heroes come true, the moment the lieutenant walked away. That it was possible, if not probable, that their friends are lost in the frozen wilderness or worse.

“Oh no…” Fluttershy moaned sadly.

Chewie released a long, mournful howl, somewhat like a coyote. Fluttershy leans her face against his shoulder, bawling her eyes out while Rarity tries to comfort her friend. At the same moment, R2 began a complex series of efficient beeps.

“R2 says the chances of survival are seven hundred seventy-five… to one,” 3PO translated reluctantly.

“Don’t you two ever offer any good news?” Spike muttered.

Leia stood praying to herself as the huge metal doors slammed across the entrance of the ice cave. Loud booms echoed throughout the huge cavern, while Chewie released another suffering howl.

“Fluttershy, will you please do something to calm him down?” Rarity asked.

“He can’t help it Rarity,” Fluttershy cried. “How would you feel if any of our friends are lost out there?”

“I knew we should’ve gone out there!” Rainbow muttered. “If those boys turn to popsicles on us, so help me—”

“Actually Rainbow, R2 has been known to make mistakes… from time to time,” 3PO suggested. “Oh, dear, oh, dear. Don’t worry about Master Luke. I’m sure he’ll be all right. He’s quite clever, you know… for a human being.”

“Thanks for tryin’ 3PO,” Applejack sighed. “I only hope the force is strong for those two.”

“Yeah… could you imagine being out in that blizzard out there?” Pinkie asked nervously. “If the cold don’t get to you, there could be a bunch of creepy monsters out there that could make a smorgasbord out of you soon as they catch you.”

Fluttershy cried after hearing such a tearing thought. Chewbacca growled toward Pinkie, while the rest of the girls frowned in disappointment.

“Thanks a lot Pinkie,” Rainbow frowned. “Now you’re going to give Fluttershy nightmares.”

Just then, a rebel soldier quickly rushed toward the tiny group.

“My Princess, it seems one of the Tauntauns are missing,” He informed. “Someone must’ve taken it and ventured off into the blizzard.”

“Now who else would be foolish enough to go out in this weather?” Leia asked.

Twilight looked out amongst all the members of her friends (Including some familiar allies). She started counting heads silently one-by-one, suddenly she let out a gasp realizing they’re missing one head.

“Wait a minute!” She realized. “Where’s Storm?”

<> 

The blizzard blew furiously as Storm Shield lead his Tauntaun out into the frozen valley. The snowy winds were growing stronger by the second, the atmosphere was so thick with heavy snow that nothing could be seen up close. No sane individual would ever think to be out here at this hour, where the chances of freezing to death are higher than being eaten by a rogue Wampa. But the force was strong in this atmosphere, propelling Storm to move forward and he had no intent of coming back until he found the source.

“Where are you?” Storm asked no one in particular. “Give me a sign…”

Though the tauntaun groaned and moaned, frightened to be out here, Storm merely gave the beast a gentle tap under its chin before kicking his heels on its side urging him forward. The beast trotted off as Storm scanned the high grounds for any sign of life. But with nothing but snow and ice within miles of where they are, it seemed this search was proving most fruitless. 

And suddenly… he found a sign: A single gloved hand sticking out from the snow. And the power of the force was directed straight toward the figure buried a couple feet in snow.

“Luke?” Storm spoke.

With a click of his tongue and a kick of his heels, Storm propelled the tauntaun forward stopping just inches from the figure. Storm hopped off the tauntaun and cautiously approached the figure. He proceeds to brush away the snow off the figure as quickly as he can. In doing so, more of the figure was shown… particularly the black clothing.

“No way…” Storm shook his head.

It was difficult to assume given the figure was lying face-first into the snow for who knows how long? Wanting to make absolutely certain, Storm Shield slowly pushed the figure onto its side and the moment he got a look at his face… Storm’s eyes went wide.

“You…”

Just as it’s suddenly coming together, an additional sound draws Storm Shield to turn around as a shadowy figure starts to approach the trio through the snow. Storm cautiously drew his lightsaber pike, igniting the blade, preparing for whatever was coming for them…

<> 

As Dusk settled onto the landscape, Luke Skywalker himself laid face-down onto the snow nearly unconscious. His life was currently hanging by a thread and with him unable to act, his temperature will dangerously decrease, and the furious cold will overwhelm him…

“Luke… Luke…”

Then Luke heard a voice in the distance. Slowly he looked up and there it was… Ben Kenobi, barely visible through the blowing snow. It’s difficult to tell if this is the ‘real’ Kenobi or a figment of his own imagination.

“Ben?” Luke spoke weakly.

“You will go to the Dagobah system,” Ben Kenobi instructed.

“Dagobah system?”

“There you will learn from Yoda, the Jedi Master who instructed me.”

Soon, the image of Ben faded, revealing a long Tauntaun rider approaching from the windswept horizon.

“Ben…” Luke groaned faintly. “Ben…”

Eventually Luke dropped into unconscious, his body giving up on him. And the shadow of the lone Tauntaun rider, when up close… turned out to be a ‘pair’ of Tauntaun riders. Han Solo riding on one Tauntaun, with Storm Shield following close behind. And close behind Storm, leaning unconsciously against him, an unknown victim of the cold.

Han pulled up and leapt of his mount, while Storm steadily laid the unconscious man on his own tauntaun and slowly stepped down. They hurried toward their snow-covered friend, the Captain cradling him in his arms. The Tauntauns released a low, pitiful bellow but their riders’ concern was for Luke. Han shook him urgently, as Storm leaned over him.

“Luke! Luke!” Han Solo shouted, nudging him. “Don’t do this, Luke. Come on, give me a sign here.”

But no response came from Luke’s lips. Storm crouched closer toward Luke, holding his wrist seeking a pulse.

“It’s very faint…” Storm observed. “If we don’t get him back to base, he’s going to die out here.”

Desperate, Han frantically rubbed and slapped Luke’s unconscious face. As they start to lift the youth, the men heard a rasping sound behind them. They turned around, just in time to see their Tauntauns stagger and collapse onto the snow. They carried Luke to the moaning beasts. One tauntaun gave a final groan before ultimately expiring. Storm approached his own tauntaun, but it’s painfully clear the beast is not going to make it. With a reluctant sigh, he ignites his own lightsaber pike, while caressing the weak beast softly. His eyes glow as he looked on sadly.

“Oo nesan, oo yurushi kudasai. Anata no seijin ga riki de hashiri masu…”

Reluctantly, Storm Shield used his lightsaber to slit the beast’s throat for a quick and painless death sparing the creature from enduring the winter cold. The color in his eyes fade as he stares sadly at the Tauntaun, a tear sweeping away into the wind. He turned toward Han.

“We don’t have much time,” Storm spoke. “We’re never going to make it back to the base. If we don’t get these two warmed up they’re going to die.”

“I still don’t agree on letting you take him with us,” Han argued. “You know who he is.”

“Yes… I do,” Storm nodded. “But we need him… just as we need Luke.”

Han just gave an exasperated sigh as he pushed Luke’s inert form against the belly of one of the dead beasts.

“Ben… Ben…” Luke moaned.

“Hang on, kid,” Han spoke.

“Dagobah system…”

Quickly, Han ignited Luke’s saber and slit the beast from head to toe. Storm does the same to his fallen Tauntaun, albeit more reluctantly than willingly. But realizing the fate of these young men are at stake, they quickly toss the steaming innards into the snow, before lifting their inert forms and stuffing them inside the carcasses. 

“Oh, sweet Celestia…” Storm reeled from the odor. “I’m really sorry about this…”

“Dagobah…” Luke muttered.

“This may smell bad, kid…” Han added. “But it will keep you warm… till I get the shelter built.”

“Yoda…” Luke moaned.

“Yoda…?” Storm spoke, surprised.

There wasn’t enough time to think, as they struggled to get the boys deep into the bodies of the dead Tauntauns.

“Ooh… I thought they smelled bad on the outside!” Han groaned.

“Worse than salted, fermented cabbages and radishes,” Storm agreed.

The wind picked up considerably, making it difficult for anyone to move. Han proceeded to remove a pack from the dead creature’s back, taking out a shelter container. As he began setting up what can only be a pitiful protection against a bitter Hoth night, Storm Shield looked up toward the heavens with one thought on his mind.

“Master Yoda…” Storm thought. “You’re alive?”

<> 

At the height of dawn, four snub-nosed armored snow-speeders raced across the white landscape. One pilot, Zev, in the enclosed two-man craft, concentrated on the scopes which ring his cockpit. Just then, he heard a low beep from one of his monitors.

“Echo Base… I’ve got something!” Zev informed into transmitter. “Not much, but it could be a life form.”

The small craft banked and made a slow arc, then raced off in a new direction. The pilot switched over to a new transmitter.

“This is Rogue Two, this is Rogue Two,” Zev called, through transmitter. “Captain Solo, do you copy? Commander Skywalker, do you copy? Commander Storm Shield, this is Rogue Two.”

There was a sharp crackle of static, followed by a faint voice.

“Good morning!” Han greeted, through Zev’s receiver. “Nice of you guys to drop by.”

Satisfied with the answer, Zev proceeded to switch transmitters.

“Echo Base… this is Rogue Two. I found them. Repeat, I found them.”

The small shelter Han set up was covered with snow on the windward side. A makeshift antenna rested gingerly on top the snowdrift. Han spotted Zev’s snowspeeder approaching in the distance, waving his arms frantically at the tiny craft. Close by, Storm Shield stood beside their unconscious friends (Thankfully they are both alive). Storm kept one hand clutched along the stranger’s grasp.

“Hang in there,” Storm whispered to the man. “You’re in good hands…”

The figure did not speak, but a sign of life was shown when his fingers twitched. Whomever this person was, someone only Storm knows, he knew for certain that the rest of his friends were in for a big surprise.

“Princess Twilight is definitely going to kill me…” Storm thought, cringing in thought.

<> 

Deep within the oblivion of her own mind, Sunset Shimmer followed the former Sith Emperor through the deep valley. As Sunset looked about, she noticed that the entire landscape was entirely dead. All around her, burnt trees and black rock filled the decaying landscape.

“The old ways held you back,” Valkorion spoke, as they walked. “You were never able to tap into your true potential. It’s time you were unleashed.”

“What are you talking about?” Sunset asked confused.

A deep chuckle from Valkorion was all she could hear before everything went black. When Sunset’s vision returned, she looked around and found herself once again in Equestria. Or more rather, what looked like Equestria. Everything was still frozen in time, old warships still in an endless battle above her. She stared up toward Canterlot Castle, as Valkorion walked alongside her.

“Your former prison,” He said. “You always were superior to the mindless fools in charge here.”

Sunset turned toward Valkorion, shaking her head.

“That’s not true!” She argued. “Celestia and Luna maintained order in Equestria for thousands of years.”

“The more lies you tell yourself, the longer the chains of your past will hold you back.”

In a bright flash of light, the two now stood in the former Castle of the Two Sisters where a frozen image of Celestia and Luna battling one another was seen. Only Luna was not herself, but Nightmare Moon.

“What you see before you lies a perfect example of what happens when you allow yourself to be chained,” Valkorion observed. “Denied of the greatness you rightfully deserve.”

But again, Sunset shook her head with denial and disagreement.

“That can’t be true!” She said. “Princess Luna sought to overthrow Celestia and bring about eternal night. It was anger, greed, and jealousy that turned her into a monster.”

“Or perhaps she merely hoped to finally break free of her imprisonment that was her former self,” Valkorion suggested. “In order for one to embrace true greatness within, they must first obliterate the thing holding them back.”

Next thing Sunset knew, Luna disappeared from view. Now Sunset found herself standing in the center of the great hall, Celestia standing right across from her. Only Celestia looked extremely disappointed.

“You were a disappointment to me the moment you first walked through the door,” Celestia spat. “Is it any wonder I replaced you with Twilight Sparkle? She proved herself far more reliable and greater than you ever could be.”

Hearing such talk from her teacher truly cut Sunset to the core. After she reconnected with Celestia long ago, she truly remembered how much she had missed her. Valkorion stepped from behind her.

“You must prove you are willing to move forward to achieve greatness,” He informed her. “The first step is quite simple… ‘kill her’.”

Sunset’s eyes instantly widened, as she whipped her head toward Valkorion in shock. He was actually telling her… to kill her teacher! The very though alone made tears swell in her eyes.

“No…” Sunset spoke quietly.

“What did you say?” Valkorion asked.

“I can’t… I-I-I won’t do it!”

“You’d rather live in the shadow of a false Goddess?” Valkorion asked. “The decision ‘is’ yours to make, though I feel I should warn you. Refuse to fight and she kills you, there’s no hope for you. Dying within your subconscious will destroy your entirety till nothing remains but darkness.”

Sunset shook her head, as tears started falling down her face. When she looked down at her hand, she noticed she now held the lightsaber given to her when she turned to the dark side. She really did not want to fight Celestia; however, the alicorn goddess had other ideas in mind. She charged her horn and sent a massive magical blast at Sunset, who thankfully dove out of the way in time. Valkorion walked out from behind Celestia.

“You do not wish to die yet refuse to strike down the one thing that truly stops you from achieving true potential,” he spoke.

Celestia again sent another blast of magic and Sunset leapt to the side. Only this time, before she could get up, Celestia soared through the air and landed atop her. She held both her arms down with her hooves, glaring deeply into Sunset’s eyes.

“You’ve been such a disappointment Sunset,” She sneered. “Now I’ll make sure you never disappoint any pony ever again.”

Celestia charged her horn again, even stronger than other times before. Sunset turned toward Valkorion, who merely observed from the side.

“Allow yourself to move forward,” He instructed. “Let go of your past.”

Sunset looked toward her other side, seeing her lightsaber discarded to the side. She truly didn’t want to do this, but she didn’t have much choice. She reached out with the force and the lightsaber flew into her hand. Just as Celestia was about to blast her, Sunset ignited the saber and the glow of the red blade pierced right through Celestia’s abdomen. Celestia’s eyes widened for a moment before her body fell to the side. Sunset slowly sat up, as she looked toward the now deceased form of her teacher. Crawling over to her, she knelt to her side and wrapped her arms around her head openly sobbing. She didn’t even notice Valkorion stepping beside her.

“Tell me Sunset,” He requested. "Did it satisfy you to kill her?”

Sunset looked toward the former emperor, tears still freely falling.

“Why?” She wept. “Why did you make me do this?”

“I never made you do anything,” Valkorion responded calmly. “The decision was yours alone to make.  You could have simply allowed her to kill you… you refused.”

“You stacked the odds against me,” Sunset argued. “You gave me no choice!”

“There’s ‘always’ a choice. This serves as a demonstration that your power far exceeds anything beyond your imagination. The Crystal Empire… the Council of Friendship… the Elements of Harmony… all failures. You alone achieve victory.”

“I don’t understand…” Sunset cried.

Valkorion simply turned his back away from the girl.

“Your world is not worth saving; your enemies are not worth fighting,” He spoke. “A greater purpose awaits us.”

Valkorion proceed toward another division of the void. Sunset looked down toward the fallen form of Celestia one final time.

“Celestia… I’m sorry…” Sunset sobbed, shaking her head. “I’m so very sorry…”

Finally letting Celestia’s head drop to the floor, she reluctantly turned away from her fallen mentor before following Valkorion deep within the darkness.
> Uneasy Allies
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Standing watch, almost protectively, Storm Shield silently observed the strange robot surgeons adjusting a mass of electronic equipment. With a throw of a switch, a sudden blinding flash obscured Luke in a bacta-tank filled with a thick, gelatinous slime. He began to thrash about, raving in delirium. Storm felt so bad for the poor boy; he could only imagine just what he went through in that frozen tundra. As he watched over the boy, he suddenly felt a hand clasped around his shoulder. He turned around and saw a very cross Twilight Sparkle.

“What’s going on Sparky?” He asked casually.

*SLAP!!!*

Storm’s head whipped to the side, and he placed a hand over his now stinging cheek. He quickly turned back toward Twilight, yet still retained the same expression as before.

“I probably deserve that…”

“No… YOU THINK?!?!” Twilight yelled angrily.

“Perhaps we should take this out in the hall,” Storm suggested.

Twilight huffed angrily before turning around, stomping her way out of the medical bay. Storm shook his head before turning back toward Luke.

“Wish me luck buddy,” Storm spoke. “I’m sure going to need it.”

Storm quickly walked out of the bay and the moment the hatch doors closed he stood face to face with an ‘angry’ Twilight Sparkle.

“I know you’re mad…”

“Oh, I am WAY past mad!” Twilight fumed. “How could you possibly do something so stupid? Heading off into that horrible blizzard by yourself? Did it ever occur to you that you could’ve died out there?”

Storm released a deep exhale, as he looked down for a moment. He already knew the minute he took one step off the base this would happen.

“Believe it or not, I had good reason for what I did,” He assured calmly.

“Well, I’d sure like to hear it,” Twilight said, crossing her arms.

Storm gestured for her to follow him. The two started walking down the frozen halls of the Rebel Base.

“Originally, I had just gone out to help scope out just in case the Empire decided to pay us a ‘visit’,” He explained, with air quotes. “Then for some reason, I felt this strange sensation of the force pulling me out into the frozen valley. At first I thought it was Luke, but I couldn’t quite make it out. But somehow I knew I had to go wherever it was leading me.”

“Did you ever think about letting us in on it?” Twilight asked.

“Would you have agreed with me if I had told you?”

“Well… I… that is…” Twilight stammered, uncertain.

“Exactly,” Storm nodded. “Besides, you were still upset about losing Sunset. I didn’t want to worry you any further.”

“Except you did worry me Storm Shield,” Twilight argued, almost in tears. “I’ve already lost my best friend to an evil Empire bent on universal domination. I can’t bear the thought of losing another of my friends. I just… can’t…”

The two stop the moment a tear drops down Twilight’s cheeks. Storm slowly drew Twilight toward him, holding her close as she cried into his chest and held onto him for dear life.

“You’re right,” Storm agreed. “It was stupid and selfish of me not to tell any of you. I know these last few years haven’t been easy on you or your nerves. I promise it’ll never happen again.”

Twilight slowly pulled away to look Storm in the eyes. Storm gingerly reached up and wiped the few stray tears from her face which caused her to smile and blush slightly.

“You swear?” She asked softly.

“On my mother’s good name,” Storm nodded, facing the screen.

Twilight smiled, nodding with approval as the two kept a tight hold on each other. 

“AHEM!”

The sound of someone clearing their throat caused them to quickly separate and turned to see the rest of their friends staring at them.

“We interrupting something?” Rainbow asked mischievously.

“Y’all seemed tah be getting’ pretty cozy with one another,” Applejack smirked.

Both Twilight and Storm blushed madly in embarrassment, as the rest of the girls…

Ahem…

And Spike… giggled and laughed at their expense. Then Pinkie Pie stormed up toward Storm, right in his face.

“Don’t you ever scare us like that again Mister Sneaky Pants!” She scolded. “We were worried sicky about you!”

This actually made Storm chuckle a bit.

“Yes mother…” He joked.

Pinkie caught on to his jest and playfully poked him in the chest.

“Hey now, don’t be trying to replace my Lil’ Cheese. Nothing can ever come close to replacing my sweet baby boy—”

Pinkie paused for a moment and stared at Storm’s chest, poking the same spot. Awkward silence filled the air.

“Wow that’s very hard…” Pinkie observed.

“Thank you,” Storm nodded.

Pinkie backed away, chuckling awkwardly… then quickly stared Storm right in the eye.

“You better Pinkie Promise you won’t ever do anything like that again!” She warned.

Storm playfully rolled his eyes and went through the whole procedure.

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye,” He recited.

“Great, now maybe I won’t have to sock you’re jaw for freaking us out like that,” Rainbow spoke up.

“I know Rainbow,” Storm nodded. “Although, the funniest thing happened earlier today. I met this girl, who somehow looked an awful lot like you. I think her name was ‘Skittles’ or something.”

This drew Rainbow’s attention.

“Another me?” She asked.

“Eeyup.”

“Well… she can pretend to be the fastest flyer in all Equestria if she wants,” Rainbow replied, cracking her knuckles. “But if she thinks she can steal my life, this Skittles chick will taste the rainbow!”

Applejack looked over at her girlfriend with a quizzical look.

“Ah sure hope that means yer fixin’ tah hurt her,” She said.

It was then Fluttershy decided to speak up.

“So um… why did you go out into the cold alone Storm?” She asked softly.

“Well you see, some power in the force guided me out to save someone who was practically freezing to death. Fortunately, we didn’t have too long to wait for help and soon as we got back I arranged for him to take a dip in the bacta-tank before Luke. Actually, he’s just recovering in one of the patient’s rooms. You want to come along?”

“Well, I suppose since we have nothing better to do,” Rarity replied. “I just hope whomever you found was worth risking a death of cold.”

“Trust me Rarity, you’ll be surprised,” Storm reassured.

<> 

The moment the hatch doors open to one of the rooms, Storm and the others stood by the open doorway… and the eyes from the girls widen in shock. There sitting up on his bed, slowly sipping a hot beverage to warm up, a familiar man in a black suit, slightly scratched up (And apparently singed)… the Sith Lord Starkiller sat before them. He felt their presence, their eyes looking at him, and slowly he turned toward them. Spike growled at the man, while the group stood speechless… except perhaps ‘one’.

“You…” Twilight glared.

“Oh… so nice to meet you all again,” Starkiller replied. “Sci-Fi Twi, Kellogg, Skittles, Pinkamena Diane Pie, Lady Marshmallow, and… Bashful Butterfly.”

“Butterfly?” Fluttershy asked, confused.

“Who you calling Skittles?” Rainbow asked angrily.

“And who are you calling a ‘Marshmallow’?” Rarity asked, in annoyance.

“Oh… right…” Starkiller nodded. “You’re the othergroup of girls…”

“Ahem!” Spike cleared his throat.

Starkiller looked down at the tiny pup, who was now more annoyed than angry now.

“Dragon?” Starkiller asked.

“Dragon…” Spike answered.

“Good to know—”

Twilight Sparkle suddenly stormed toward Starkiller, gripping him by the collar and pressing him to the wall. The fact he didn’t even fight back would come up as a slight surprise and yet he just stared at her.

“Where is she?!” Twilight snarled. “Where’s Sunset Shimmer?”

“I’m not sure,” Starkiller spoke.

“DON’T YOU LIE TO ME, SITH!” Twilight shouted. “For three years you’ve lied to us; that’s all you ever do is lie!”

“Twilight, calm down!” Applejack spoke.

“Why should I be?! We trusted him to bring Sunset Shimmer back to us! Three years we waited on some guy, we don’t even know in the first place, who claimed he was bringing her back to us!”

“Can I speak now?” Starkiller asked dryly.

Twilight Sparkle turned toward Starkiller, gesturing him to get it out of his system.

“I had every intent to bring your friend back to you,” Starkiller spoke up. “She wanted to meet with you the first thing she heard you were all on the Death Star, which you had no business being in. But I insisted we’d wait it out while the Empire was distracted… and things got complicated.”

“You mean to tell me that Sunset wanted to meet up with us?” Twilight argued. “This is exactly why we can’t trust the Sith! They always have a motive; who’s to say he didn’t feign his way just to spy on us for the Empire!”

“Well, good luck trying to prove that to your Generals,” Starkiller argued. “The Empire practically shot me off one of my own ships, left me on Hoth to die out there. You think I’d do any of this to myself?”

Starkiller gestured to how his clothes looked like they were on fire. The group took one look at his condition, curiously wondering how someone like Starkiller would be in this condition. If he were telling the truth, and he wouldn’t purposely hurt himself, that could only mean he could be telling the truth.

“I don’t know about this girls,” Rainbow shook her head. “I feel like he’s not telling us something.”

“But what if he truly is telling the truth?” Fluttershy spoke up. “What the Empire truly left him behind?”

“Flutters, I really don’t—”

“Just suppose… and how better would we be if we just left him out there to die?”

“Spoken just like a Jedi…” Starkiller nodded.

Twilight Sparkle turned back toward Starkiller, her angry dropping just slightly. But her eyes never leave Starkiller’s.

“Before we can stay in the same base with you, I just want to know one thing,” Twilight spoke firmly. “Where… is… Sunset?”

A heavy sigh escaped Starkiller’s lips, his eyes looked down toward the floor. He kept his face hidden away from the group, even the one girl staring at him.

“Sunset Shimmer… is gone…” 

The group turned toward each other, letting Starkiller’s words sink in. All of them could see the surprise on each other’s faces. But none more shocked than Twilight Sparkle, who slowly backed away… shaking her head with denial.

“You’re lying… Sunset Shimmer…”

“Sunset Shimmer is gone!” Starkiller repeated aloud. “I did everything I could to save her… everything, even if it meant betraying the Empire. But it’s too little, too late… the Sunset you know is gone. I’m sorry… the Emperor took her.”

Twilight Sparkle stood there frozen with horror, the words ‘Sunset Shimmer is gone’ repeating in her head. Tears start to trickle from her eyes once more, as her friends (and especially Spike) looked on with concern. Before another word could be said, a Rebel soldier approached the group.

“Master Shield!” The rebel spoke. “Commander Skywalker has woken up; he’s recovering in the other room. He requests your immediate presence.”

Twilight Sparkle turned toward the rebel, then back at Starkiller, his expression remaining the same. Without another word, Twilight Sparkle turned away choking back her sobs as she went the opposite way. Concerned, Spike followed Twilight Sparkle while the rest looked on.

“We should give Twilight some space y’all,” Applejack suggested. “Come, let’s all check up on Luke.”

The rest of the girls turned to leave for Skywalker’s room in silence, till only Storm Shield remained in the room with Starkiller. Both Jedi and Sith stood in silence within the same room, only when Storm looked at Starkiller he wasn’t judging him. As a matter of fact, when he looked at him, he felt sympathetic for him.

“Don’t worry about them,” Storm advised. “They’ll come around eventually; it’s been a rough three years for those girls. Especially Twilight.”

Storm then turned to leave the room, so Starkiller can have some time for himself. The Sith sat on the bed, picking up the hot beverage cup as he stared into the scolding liquid.

“You have no idea…” He spoke silently.

<> 

Meanwhile, in one of the recovery rooms, Luke sat up in a recovery-room bed, weak but smiling. His face showed terrible wounds from the Wampa’s attack. 3PO and R2 entered the room.

“Master Luke, sir,” 3PO greeted. “It’s so good to see you fully functional again.”

R2 beeped his good wishes.

“R2 expresses his relief, also.”

Storm Shield, the Equestrian heroes, Han, and Chewie make their entrance. The Wookiee growled a greeting.

“How are you feeling, kid?” Han asked, looking over. “You don’t look so bad to me. In fact, you look strong enough to pull the ears off a Gundark.”

“Gundark?” Fluttershy asked.

“Vicious beasts from the planet Vanqor,” Storm answered. “Very powerful, very fierce, and very keen hearing. You ought to be lucky Luke, that would mean you’re healthy and strong.”

“Thanks to him,” Luke acknowledged Han.

“That’s two you owe me, junior,” Han replied.

“Boy, are we so glad to hear you’re okay Lukester!” Pinkie cried. “When we heard of that mean ole’ Wampa trying to make shish-kabobs out of you, we feared the worst!”

“They are one of Hoth’s top carnivores on this planet,” Storm replied. “Whatever landed out there crashed too close to a Wampa’s den and it was protecting it’s territory. Lucky Luke’s no normal man or who knows what that beast would’ve done.”

Just then, Princess Leia entered the room. Han turned and looked at her with a big, devilish grin.

“Well your Worship,” Han spoke, mockingly. “Looks like you managed to keep me around for a little while longer.”

“I had nothing to do with it,” Leia replied haughtily. “General Rieekan thinks it’s dangerous for any ships to leave the system until we’ve activated the energy shield.”

“How much longer is it going to take?” Rarity asked.

“Too long… and we don’t have enough time.”

“That’s a good story,” Han replied sarcastically. “I think you just can’t bear to let a gorgeous guy like me out of your sight.”

“I don’t know where you get your delusions, laser brain,” Leia sneered.

Fluttershy and Chewie are amused, the former laugh in his usual manner. Han, enjoying himself, regards Chewie good-humoredly.

“Laugh it up, fuzzball. But you didn’t see us alone in the south passage.”

Luke sparks to this; he turns toward Leia.

“She expressed her true feelings for me,” Han continued.

“She expressed some feelings dude,” Rainbow replied. “But not what you were hoping for.”

Leia is flushed, eyes darting between Luke and Han.

“My…! Why, you stuck up… half-witted… scruffy-looking… nerf-herder!” Leia stammered.

“Who’s scruffy-looking?” Han argued, turning to Luke. “I must have hit pretty close to the mark to get her all riled up like that, huh kid?”

“Now you’re just being rude!” Rarity muttered.

Leia looked vulnerable for a moment, then the mask falls again, focusing on Luke.

“Why, I guess you don’t know everything about women yet?”

With that, she leaned over and kissed Luke on the lips. Then she turned heel and walked out, leaving everyone in the room slightly dumbstruck. With some smugness, Luke put his hands behind his head and grinned.

“Wow Luke, you really get all the luck,” Storm replied.

Luke turned toward Storm, looking around with confusion.

“Where’s Twilight?” Luke asked.

Storm paused for a moment then took a breath, the air in his lungs flowing in the icy air.

“She needed some time to work some things out,” Storm finally answered. “She’ll join us later.”

Suddenly, in the distance, the muffled sound of an alarm was heard.

“Headquarters personnel, report to command center,” The announcer spoke, over loudspeaker.

The voice repeats the order, as Han, Chewie, R2, 3PO, and the others hurry out the room, bidding farewell to Luke.

“Take it easy,” Han advised.

“We’ll check on you later, darling,” Rarity added.

“Excuse us, please,” 3PO spoke.

<> 

At the Command Center, Rieekan looked grimly from a console screen. He called over to the Equestria, Leia, and Han.

“Princess… we have a visitor,” Rieekan informed.

The group hurried over to Rieekan.

“What in tarnation are we lookin’ at?” Applejack asked.

“We’ve picked up something outside the base in zone twelve, moving east,” Rieekan answered.

“It’s metal,” A senior controller added.

“Can’t be the Wampa that attacked Luke,” Storm replied. “Those beasts are tough, but it would’ve bled out after having it’s arm removed.”

“It could be a speeder,” Han guessed. “One of ours.”

“No. Wait—there’s something very weak coming through,” The Senior Controller listened.

3PO stepped up to the control panel, listening intently to the strange signal.

“Sir, I am fluent in six million forms of communication,” 3PO spoke up. “This signal is not used by the Alliance. It could be an Imperial code.”

The transmission itself ended in static.

“Whatever it is, it sounds scary,” Fluttershy spoke worriedly.

“Come on, Chewie,” Han ushered. “Let’s check it out.”

“Send Rogues Ten and Eleven to station three-eight,” Rieekan ordered.

<> 

The dark probe robot moved past the smoldering ruins of station three-eight and down a ridge toward the Rebel base. It raised a large antenna from the top of its head and began sending out a piercing signal. 

The probe droid spotted Chewbacca who, not thirty feet away, popped his head over the snowbank. Instantly, the probe robot swung around, its deadly ray ready to fire. But before it can get a shot off, a laser bolt struck from behind, and the droid exploded in a million pieces. Han Solo replaced his blaster in its holster and peered intently at the smoldering remains of the Imperial probe.

<> 

The Equestrians, Leia, and Rieekan listened to Han on the commlink.

“Afraid there’s not much left,” Han spoke, over commlink.

“What was it?” Leia asked, into commlink.

“Droid of some kind. I didn’t hit it that hard. It must have had a self-destruct.”

“An Imperial probe droid.”

“What does that mean?” Rarity asked.

“The Empire knows we’re here.”

The group turned around and saw Twilight Sparkle with Spike at her side. Only now she looked dressed for battle, a belt looped around with empty holsters, and a pair of guns in each hand. A serious expression on her face.

“They’ve probably known for a long time,” Twilight concluded.

“I knew it!” Rainbow slammed against the desk. “We bring that kid into our base and now they’ve got probes scouting our base—”

“We don’t know if he had anything to do with this,” Storm argued. “I would’ve sensed something.”

“He’s not a normal man; he’s a Sith!”

“We’d better start the evacuation,” Rieekan advised, walking away.

“What’re we going to do now?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“We prepare for the Empire to send their best,” Twilight declared, determined. “And we’re going to make them ‘pay’ for everything.”

<> 

Darth Vader’s Star Destroyer, larger than the five Imperial Star Destroyers that surround it, sitting in the vastness of space. The six huge ships are surrounded by a convoy of smaller spacecraft, TIE fighters darting to-and-fro.

Controllers working the vast complex of electronic controls hear ominous approaching footsteps and looked up from their controls. The squat, evil-looking Admiral Ozzel and the young, powerfully built General Veers, who have been conferring near the front, also feel the approaching presence and turn toward it. Darth Vader, Lord of the Sith, entered like a chill wind. As Vader moved across the wide bridge, Captain Piett hurried up to Ozzel.

“Admiral,” Piett spoke.

“Yes, Captain,” Ozzel spoke.

“I think we’ve got something sir. The report is only a fragment from a probe droid in the Hoth system, but it’s the best lead we’ve had.”

“We have thousands of probe droids searching the galaxy,” Ozzel spat irritated. “I want proof, not leads!”

“The visuals indicate life readings,” Piett insisted.

“It could mean anything. If we followed every lead…”

“But, sir, the Hoth system is supposed to be devoid of human forms,” Piett pointed out.

Vader moved toward a large screen showing an image of the Rebel snow base. Rebel speeders can be seen approaching the base in the distance.

“You found something?” Vader questioned.

“Yes, my lord,” Piett confirmed.

Vader silently studied the image upon the console screen.

“That’s it. The Rebels are there.”

“My lord, there are so many uncharted settlements,” Ozzel argued. “It could be smugglers, it could be…”

“That is the system,” Vader confirmed. “And I’m sure Skywalker, along with those Equestrians, are with them. Set your course for the Hoth system. General Veers, prepare your men.”

<> 

A captain issued instructions to two of his men at the entrance to the main transport bay. Several Rebel transports behind them are being loaded by men carrying heavy boxes and moving quickly, but not in panic.

“Groups seven and ten will stay behind to fly the speeders,” The Rebel Captain ordered. “As soon as each transport is loaded, evacuation control will give clearance for immediate launch.”

“Right, sir!” A Rebel Fighter nodded.

<>

The alarms blare as troops, ground crews, and droids rushed to their alert stations. Armored snowspeeders are lined up in attack formation near the main entrance. Amidst all this activity, Han performed some frantic welding on the lifters of the Millennium Falcon. Han finished his work and hopped down to the hangar floor. He pulled out his commlink, all the while eyeing problematic lifters.

“Okay, that’s it,” Han told Chewie, through commlink. “Try it… Off! Turn it off! Turn it off! Off!”

Smoke rose from a minor explosion on the lifter. Exasperated, Han surveyed the new damage.

<>

Fluttershy made her way through the medical center when she discovered Luke dressed in readiness for the evacuation.

“Luke!” Fluttershy called out. “Thank goodness you’re still here. Evacuation is underway, but it’s going to take a while to get the T-Forty-Sevens moving.”

“Well, forget the heavy equipment,” Luke replied. “There’s plenty of time to get the smaller modules on the transports.”

“Luke… take care.”

“Thanks,” Luke nodded.

<> 

Back within the confines of her own mind, Sunset followed Valkorion to the edge of what appeared to be a large crystal clear archway. In a way, it reminded her of the portal that brought them here. Valkorion reached one hand out, tracing his fingers across the pool-like portal. He turned back toward Sunset, as a small smirk formed along the corner of his mouth.

“You have taken your first step towards a better future,” He informed her. “You’ve learned to let go of your past and now… we begin your path to greatness.”

“That is enough!” Sunset yelled. “You’re leading me down a path you won’t even tell me about, you keep insisting I let go of my past, and you made me kill my teacher! I’m done listening to you!”

Sunset turned heel and proceeded to walk away when suddenly something strange happened to her. She instantly became weak, feeling as though every muscle in her being was being pierced. She cried out as she sank to her knees.

“What’s happening to me?” She cried.

“Each day spent trapped in this endless void is another step closer to your imminent destruction,” Valkorion responded. “Refuse to complete your training and fail to escape from your subconsciousness, soon enough it will ultimately destroy you.”

Sunset released another cry, falling onto her back as another jolt of pain rocketed through her. Valkorion slowly approached her till he stood above her.

“Do you truly believe I brought you along this path to deter you?” He asked. “Your past is the most powerful weapon that can be used against you. All I seek is to help break that chain and allow you to finally realize your true potential.”

Valkorion held out a hand for Sunset to take. She stared at the outstretched hand, debating whether to take it or not. However, she truly had no choice. Without him, she’d just wander aimlessly for whatever time remained. So she hesitantly reached out and took his hand which allowed him to help her back up.

“What’s next?” She asked defeated.

“Now… I show you how great your life may be altered if you abide by my teachings.”

Valkorion walked slowly to the portal, casually stepping through the pool. Sunset slowly approached, drawing a deep breath before following. A blinding white light consumed her till eventually it slowly faded away. Once it completely passed, she noticed that she now stood in a completely new location. It resembled some form of giant spherical classroom. She stood in a long metallic platform that stretched to the center of the room. She also noted that on each side of the platform, men dressed in some form of golden armor stood.



Looking down the long platform, she noticed Valkorion standing with his back to her as he faced what resembled a gigantic throne forced of ancient metal and technology. Sunset slowly walked down, standing by his side as she too gazed in amazement at the majestic seat of power.



“The Eternal Throne,” Valkorion marveled. “The true seat of power in the known universe, or rather what used to be. I once held the power of this throne, which allowed me to forge my new empire… Zakuul.”

Sunset turned back around, nearly jumped when she saw three more people standing behind her. Two men appeared to be identical twins, one wearing black robes and the other wearing white. There was also a woman standing with them, with long brunette hair covered by the hood of her dark grey robes.





“Who are they?” Sunset asked nervously.

Valkorion slowly turned, staring blankly at the three figures.

“My children,” He responded simply.

Sunset turned toward Valkorion with a quizzical look.

“I didn’t know you had kids,” She said.

“Nothing more than moats of filth drowning in the chaos of the void before I graced them with my presence.”

Valkorion slowly walked down the steps of the throne, before standing over his three offspring. His eyes fixed upon the twins specifically.

“Arcann and Thexan were brought into this world merely to wage my wars across the galaxy. I gave them little attention as possible in hopes that one day, one of them will rise against me. When Arcann rose up to become that very one and killed his brother in the process, he proved most useful to me.”

He then turned to the younger woman amongst them, a wicked smile spread out.

“Vaylin was always my favorite,” He continued. “She was born with immense power in the force. She moved objects in the womb, destroyed entire training facilities in rage. Once an honor guard dropped a ball she tossed… Vaylin crippled him.”

Sunset gasped in horror. To think one person could be powerful and destructive at such a young age. It truly frightened her. She was glad she never had to meet this woman.

“What of their mother?” She asked. “She’s not in the picture.”

For once since the two met, Valkorion’s face actually fell. He slowly walked to the end of the platform and looked out into the far reaches of space.

“I made a mistake,” He spoke. “I let her go. Abandoning my past let me experience pleasures I denied myself long ago. I have known love on Zakuul. Who knows… even you may find it.”

When he said those words, Sunset couldn’t stop herself from thinking of Galen Marek. She hadn’t even known him for more than a few days. Truth be told, she hated him at the start. However, something changed over the course of time. He showed her that despite being a Sith, he had a kind heart. He helped her as best as he could, even attempting to help her escape the Empire. Then she thought back to when they shared a kiss. It made her move her fingers gently along her lips, remembering that moment. She quickly shook the thoughts from her head.

“I won’t find what I’m not looking for,” She said.

Valkorion chuckled under his breath as he faced her.

“Time will tell…”

Suddenly, the entire room creaked as the metal inside the room buckled. The entire room began to rip apart, as powerful winds blew through the air. Sunset tried to maintain her balance, as the air ripped the glass walls down and shards exploded everywhere. Valkorion merely stood staring at her, as she struggled to stay upright.

“The Eternal Throne commands a fleet more vast than any ever built. It has the power to reshape the galaxy into any image that I… that ‘we’ choose.”

Sunset lost her balance, screaming as she fell off the platform, and grasped onto the edge with all her might. It grew very difficult, very fast, as her grip began to loosen.

“I will share all of this with you… only if you accept,” Valkorion offered. “Perhaps you require a different point of view on the matter. Worry not, we shall see each other again… soon.”

Finally, Sunset lost her grip and screamed as she fell through space. Everything whipped around her as she fell into the endless dark. It was all too much for her to bare.

And then… there was none.
> Let Battle Commence
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Falling endlessly through the eternal oblivion of the void, Sunset Shimmer was lost to the world. She had fainted some time ago from the never-ending torment of emotions that were running through her. The things Valkorion was telling her, as well as the lessons from Satele Shan, played back in her head. Both had compelling points to their lessons, though Valkorion’s were more morbid. Everything was just way too much for her to handle. All she wanted was get out of this internal prison and regain control of herself before she became a true monster.

Suddenly, Sunset didn’t feel the sensation of falling any longer. Slowly, she opened her eyes. Once again, she stood on a rocky cliff in the void looking over a crumbling Dromund Kaas. Sunset slowly walked to the edge of the cliff, looking over the Imperial capital.

“Is this—” Sunset began.

“Dromund Kaas.”

The voice made Sunset snap her head to the left where she noticed another figure standing beside her. It was a man, who reminded her of Palpatine, with a very wrinkled old face and wearing old dark Sith robes. His eyes were a very intense orange-gold and he had this incredible aura of evil.



“Once I clung to this plant like a parasite, desperately clinging onto life. And then… this planet became my life.”

Sunset slowly backed away from the figure, as he turned to face her.

“This just gets worse and worse by the minute,” Sunset said worriedly. “Who are you supposed to be?”

“I believe you became acquainted with my ‘better’ form, now it’s time for you to see what I once was,” The man responded. “After abandoning my past, I took the name of Valkorion as a symbol of a new beginning. Here I was known as Vitiate, or as the Sith remembered me as… Emperor.”

“Are all Sith old and wrinkled?” Sunset asked.

Vitiate glared at the girl with a stare that could make a manticore drop dead. Sunset quickly shut herself up.

“I told you that you required a different point of view,” Vitiate spoke, gesturing to himself. “Here it is.”

Sunset instantly grabbed the lightsaber Master Satele had given her and ignited it, aiming at the former Emperor.

“I’ve had enough of you for one lifetime!” Sunset said determined. “I’ve been learning more from Master Satele than I ever did walking with you.”

Hearing the name of the former Jedi Master, Vitiate released an evil laugh that shook the very foundation upon which they stood. Sunset stumbled as she tried to keep her balance till the quaking ceased.

“Ah yes, Satele Shan,” Vitiate chuckled. “Master of a group of fanatics aiming to change the galaxy with their ‘light side’.”

All of a sudden, the universe went black again and when the picture returned to Sunset’s vision, she took notice of her surroundings. Her and Vitiate stood on the planet of Coruscant as it once stood thousands of years ago. The Jedi temple still stood tall and mighty as the center of the Jedi power in the galaxy. Standing before the Jedi temple, before a large ensemble of Republic troops, stood Master Satele Shan herself as well as a large robust soldier named Jace Malcom and a green-skinned Twi-lek woman named Saresh. Malcom led the Republic’s Havoc Squad mercenary group while Saresh governed the Republic as Supreme Chancellor.

“Behold your precious Republic,” Vitiate gestured. “Nothing more than arrogant fools blindly following corrupt politicians and worthless fanatics.”

Sunset shook her head against the old tyrant.

“You’re wrong!” She argued. “They seek only to bring peace to the galaxy, while Sith only seek to control and destroy.”

Vitiate once again chuckled over the comeback.

“They wish to bring peace to the galaxy, but not themselves,” He pointed out. “Their foolish ways would have abandoned any emotion within you. Love, friendship, brotherhood, it matters not. Hence why so many Jedi often abandon their place and seek freedom amongst the empire.”

Vitiate turned to face Sunset Shimmer who continued to maintain her look of determination.

“You’re so called ‘Master’ would cage your emotions and keep you in a leash like a mongrel pup,” He told her. “The Jedi would have you forget your friends and all those you love.”

For a moment, Sunset’s determined look faltered as she turned back to the frozen image of the Republic. Surely what Vitiate was saying couldn’t possibly be true. The Jedi are pure and kind, surely they would never expect her to abandon her friends and loved ones.

Would they?

“No…” Sunset shook her head. “You’re just trying to get me to doubt myself. The Jedi Knights are the heroes… you’re just the villains. What would Sith know about friendship and love?”

Vitiate chuckled in amusement as his eyes never leave Sunset’s side.

“You and the Jedi are so much alike in some way,” Vitiate spoke. “You choose to see the world as black and white, what’s wrong and what’s right. All that peace and justice across the universe, and all in the name of self-defense. Yes, that makes the Jedi Knights so great. But as you can see… Sith are not as different as you think.”

“What’re you talking about?” Sunset frowned.

“The Sith are merely fellow travelers down a twisted path…” Vitiate explained. “You think you know ‘everything’ about the Sith because of what Satele told you, just as the Jedi think they know ‘you’. But there are always two sides to every story: You deem the Sith’s actions evil, while your acts are praised as act of heroism. While we are proclaimed ‘heroes’ for our deeds, while we look to the Jedi Order as no more evil than us. The fact is: The world is gray and colorless, of compromise… and disappointment.”

“You’ve killed millions of lives!!!” Sunset argued. “You conquer cities; plunge civilizations to a lifetime of fear!”

“Only because they gave us no choice! The Sith want things too: To claim what’s rightfully ours, equal rights that even the Jedi refuse to touch. We had others we wanted to save so badly we’d do ‘anything’ to ensure their safety. We too sought to improve relations between races, to teach responsibility, and give a voice to the voiceless. And to get what we want, certain paths had to be crossed and those who get in our way leave us no choice but to fight them. True, our actions are an unfortunate circumstance… but we ‘do’ have a choice.”

Vitiate proceeds to step away and motion himself in the dark passage of time. 

“Where’re you going now?!” Sunset called out.

“If it’s answers you truly want, I give you two choices,” Vitiate instructed. “You can follow me and understand more about the Sith than not even your ‘masters’ are willing to acknowledge. Or… you can stay in the darkness, remain in denial to the truth, and fail to realize that the world is more ‘gray’ than anyone can ever tell you. Just remember… you ‘do’ have a choice…”

Sunset stood in her spot watching Vitiate fade away into the passage of the time they stand. She took some time to think about everything. They both make very strong arguments. Satele, Vitiate… they both have their own views as far as where they stand between Jedi and Sith. But it’s as if suddenly it’s not making any sense to her. What’s considered heroic is evil to others… what’s evil is deemed acts of heroism? As if it wasn’t enough trying to decide what path she wanted to take after high school, now she’s stuck choosing between what it means to be a Jedi and what it means to be a Sith.

“Suddenly my world no longer makes sense…” Sunset sighed, following Vitiate.

<> 

Pilots, gunners, and R2 units scurried about the main hangar deck. Luke, pulling on his heavy-weather jacket, headed toward a row of armored speeders. He stopped at the rear of the Millennium Falcon, where Han and Chewie were trying to repair the right lifter with even more haste than before.

“Chewie, take care of yourself, okay?” Luke spoke.

As Luke patted Chewie along the arm, Chewie put his arms around Luke and gave him a tight hug. Fluttershy smiled toward the pair as she leaned near the ship. Han was discussing the lifter with Applejack and Rainbow Dash.

“There’s got be a reason for why the ship’s acting up,” Rainbow spoke.

“I reckon I’ll find out on the other end,” Applejack pondered. “I’ll go check.

“Hi, Kid,” Han greeted Luke. “You all right?”

“Yeah,” Luke nodded.

“Hey kid, you be careful out there all right?” Rainbow advised. 

“You, too,” Luke smiled.

Luke waved to his friend and walked on. After a few stops, he looked back. Han glanced up and the two exchanged a silent communication, each wishing the other safety, happiness—many things, all difficult to verbalize. 

<> 

Alarms blared throughout the hidden Rebel base. In the control room, a controller urgently gestured for General Rieekan and Storm Shield to check a computer scan.

“General, there’s a fleet of Star Destroyers coming out of hyperspace in sector four,” The Controller informed.

“It won’t be long before they touch the surface,” Storm observed. “We don’t have much time.”

“Reroute all power to the energy shield,” Rieekan instructed. “We’ve got to hold them till all transports are away. Prepare for ground assault.”

Rieekan exited hurriedly, while Storm kept watched over the scanners praying to Celestia they can pull this off.

<> 

The dark cubicle was illuminated by a single shaft of light which fell on the brooding Dark Lord as he sat on a raised meditation cube. General Veer entered the room and approached the silent, unmoving Vader. Although seemingly very sure of himself, Veers was still not bold enough to interrupt the meditating lord. The younger general stood quietly at attention until the evil presence spoke.

“What is it, General?” Vader questioned.

“My lord, the fleet has moved out of light-speed,” Veers informed. “Com-Scan has detected an energy field protecting an area around the sixth planet of the Hoth system. The field is strong enough to deflect any bombardment.”

“The Rebels are alerted to our presence,” Vader spoke angrily. “Admiral Ozzel came out of light-speed too close to the system.”

“He felt ‘surprise’ was wiser…”

“He is as clumsy as he is stupid. General, prepare your troops for a surface attack.”

“Yes, my lord.”

Veers turned smartly and left as Vader activated a large viewscreen showing the bridge of his mighty ship. Admiral Ozzel appeared on the viewscreen, standing slightly in front of Captain Piett.

“Lord Vader, the fleet has moved out of light-speed,” Ozzel informed. “And we’re preparing to… AAAGH!!!”

Suddenly, Ozzel’s words are stopped when he felt a constriction along his throat. As if something was forcibly tightening around his vocal cords, as Vader kept a hand raised and applied the ‘force choke’ upon the Admiral.

“You have failed me for the last time, Admiral,” Vader declared. “Captain Piett!”

Piett stepped forward, as the admiral moved away, slightly confused, grasping his throat as it began to constrict painfully.

“Yes, my lord,” Piett stood at attention.

“Make ready to land out troops beyond the energy shield and deploy the fleet so that nothing gets out of that system,” Vader instructed. “You are in command now, ‘Admiral’ Piett.”

“Thank you, Lord Vader,” Piett nodded.

Piett’s pleasure about his unexpected promotion was not without an unmixed emotion. He glanced warily at the struggling Admiral Ozzel who, with a final choke, stumbled and fell in a lifeless heap before him.

<> 

With a sense of urgency, Leia quickly briefed a group of pilots gathered in the center of the hangar.

“All troop carriers will assemble at the north entrance,” Leia instructed. “The heavy transport ships will leave as soon as they’re loaded. Only two fighter escorts per ship. The energy shield can only be opened for a short time, so you’ll have to stay very close to your transports.”

“Two fighters against a Star Destroyer?” Hobbie questioned.

“The ion cannon will fire several shots to make sure that any enemy ships will be out of our flight path,” Leia assured. “When you’ve gotten past the energy shield, proceed directly to the rendezvous point. Understood?”

“Right/Okay,” The Pilots answered, in unison.

“Good luck!”

“Okay, everyone to your stations!” Derlin ordered. “Let’s go!”

And just like that, the pilots hurried away.

<> 

Rebel troops carried heavy bazooka-type weapons and positioned them along the snow trench. Men hurriedly responded to their officers’ yelled orders and braced themselves against the rhythmic gusts of bitter-cold wind. Other troops load power packs into a gun turret, swinging its guns into position.

Near the base power generators, troops rushed to set up their heavy battle equipment. Buzzing loudly, the generators send along, sparking fingers of energy into the bitter Hoth wind.

<> 

The line of Rebel controllers was tense, as are Princess Leia, Princess Twilight Sparkle, and General Rieekan, who are trying very hard not to show any fear.

“Their primary target will be the power generators,” Twilight informed. “As long as we can draw the empire out of their range, we should have enough power to keep the base intact.”

“Prepare to open the shield!” Rieekan called out.

<> 

The Rebel transport and two escort fighters began their departure from the ice planet.

<> 

A huge Imperial Star Destroyer rested against a sea of stars, far above the white surface of the planet Hoth.

An Imperial controller approached his commander.

“Sir, Rebel ships are coming into our sector,” The controller informed.

“Good,” The Captain nodded. “Our first catch of the day.”

<> 

“Stand by ion control… Fire!” A Woman Controller commanded.

The giant ball-shaped ion cannon rotated into position and blasted two red energy beams skyward. 

The Rebel transport and its escort raced away from the white planet, closely followed by the two red energy beams. As the Rebel transport raced toward the waiting Imperial Star Destroyer, it was overtaken by the two scarlet energy bolts. The Imperial Star Destroyer was hit in the conning toward by the powerful bolts, which set up fiery explosions on its metal hull. The big Star Destroyer veered, spinning wildly out of control. As the Imperial ship drifted into deep space, the Rebel transport raced away to safety.

<> 

Pilots, gunners, and troopers hurry to their stations and their vehicles.

“The first transport is away,” The announcer declared, over the loudspeaker.

“WAHOOO!!!” Pinkie cheered.

Everyone’s cheers over the announcement echoed through the hangar. Luke turned and walked on, heading toward his snow-speeder. His gunner, Dack, a fresh-faced, eager kid, was glad to see him as they climbed in.

“Feeling all right, sir?” Dack asked.

“Just like new, Dack,” Luke answered, strapping in. “How about you?”

“Right now I feel like I could take on the whole Empire myself.”

“I know what you mean.”

<> 

A thin horizon cut across the bleak landscape. Small dot-size objects began to appear on the horizon, moving in the direction of the Rebel base.

A Rebel officer lifted a pair of electro-binoculars to his eyes. Through the lens, he spotted a very close view of a giant Imperial snow walker. He adjusted the view which then zoomed back to reveal three more of the ominous battle machines. Small flashes of yellow fire bellowed from the guns of the lumbering snow walkers.

The officer lowered his binoculars as the regular rhythmic pounding began to make the ground vibrate. The pounding grew louder, accompanied by a high-pitched, metallic rattling. The offer spoke into his commlink.

“Echo Station Three-T-Eight.”

<> 

Pilots and gunners raced to their waiting snowspeeders. Ice and snow began falling from the walls of the corridor, shaken by the pounding Imperial snow walker as they drew ever nearer.

“We have spotted Imperial walkers!” The Trench Officer announced, over commlink.

“Imperial walkers on the north ridge!” The controller responded.

<> 

The Rebel troops aimed their weapons at the horizon, as explosions erupted all around them. They are nervous, gripping onto their weapons tightly both from the cold and of fear. Behind the troops, a dozen snow-speeders raced through the sky.

“Echo station Five-Seven,” Luke spoke, into commlink. “We’re on our way.”

The fleet of snow-speeders raced above the ice field at full throttle. They accelerate away from the base and head toward the distant walkers.

“All right, boys,” Luke informed. “Keep tight not.”

“Luke, I have no approach vector,” Dack informed. “I’m not set.”

“Steady, Dack. Attack pattern delta. Go now!”

The cannons mounted on the walker head fired at the speeders. Other walked loomed in the background. Two speeders race away past two of the enormous walkers and bank to the right.

“All right, I’m coming in!” Luke spoke.

He turned his speeder and headed directly at one of the walkers, flying toward its towering legs. The horizon twisted as the speeder banked between the legs.

“Hobbie, you still with me?” Luke asked, into commlink.

Two speeders race directly at the head of a walker, then split and flew past it. Three other walkers march onward, firing all cannons.

Rebel troops fired on the approaching walkers, as the snow and ice exploded all around them.

A speeder banked through and away from the legs of a walker. Two other speeders pass the first speeder from the opposite direction. Other Rebel craft race just above the icy plain. A giant walker head swiveled and fired, striking a snow-speeder and sending it crashing in a ball of flames.

<> 

General Veers and two walker pilots keep a careful eye on the racing Rebel snow-speeders as they maneuver their lumbering war machine forward.

<> 

Luke’s speeder banks in from the side of Veers’ walker and heads straight for its viewport, blasting away. An explosion hit the walker window, but dissipated, doing no harm. The speeder roared up and over the impregnable war machine. Luke looked back at the walker as it grew smaller in the distance.

“That armor’s too strong for blasters,” Luke informed.

On the horizon, another walked moved past Luke’s cockpit window, twisting out of sight as Luke banked and started another run.

“Rogue Group, use your harpoons and two cables,” Luke ordered, through commlink. “Go for the legs. It might be our only chance of stopping them. All right, stand by, Dack.”

Dack himself was at the gunner’s controls.

“Luke, we’ve got a malfunction in fire control,” Dack warned. “I’ll have to cut in the auxiliary.”

“Just hang. Hang on, Dack. Get ready to fire that tow cable.”

Barely keeping his seat in the tumbling ship, Dack struggled to set his harpoon gun. Luke swung his speeder around and headed toward an oncoming walker. Laser bolts and flak filled the air, creating a deadly obstacle course for the tiny craft.

Rogue Leader and another snow-speeder fly in tight formation toward the walker as explosions burst all around them.

After sustaining a heavy volley of fire, Luke turned around to see if Dack is all right.

“Dack? Dack!”

But Dack was lost. Blood streamed down his forehead, which rested on his smoldering controls. Out the back window, an Imperial walker receded in the distance.

Rebel troops fired the dish-like ray gun while explosions erupted around them. Two walkers lumbered toward the Rebel base, as a speeder between them exploded in a ball of flames. The dish-like ray gun was struck by a laser bolt and instantly exploded.

Through the cockpit window, Veers and his pilot could see the Rebel power generators in the distance. A hologram of Darth Vader appeared on a control panel screen.

“Yes, Lord Vader,” Veers informed. “I’ve reached the main power generator. The shield will be down in moments. You may start your landing.”

<> 

“Rogue Three,” Luke called, into commlink.

“Copy, Rogue Leader,” Wedge answered.

“Wedge, I’ve lost my gunner. You’ll have to make this shot. I’ll cover for you. Set your harpoon. Follow me on the next pass.”

“Coming around, Rogue Leader.”

“Steady, Rogue Two.”

Wedge’s speeder raced through the legs of one of the monstrous walkers.

“Activate harpoon!” Wedge commanded his gunner.

Wedge’s gunner reached for a firing switch to activate the harpoon. The harpoon flashed out and sped toward the receding legs of the walker. The harpoon hurtled toward the walker, in an instant it embedded in one of the walker’s legs.

“Good shot, Janson,” Wedge called out.

The speeder Rogue Three raced around one of the giant walker’s feet, trailing the cable behind it. Continuing around the back foot, Rogue Three then circled the walker around the tail end. Wedge checked his controls and banked around the front of the walker.

“One more pass,” Wedge urged.

“Coming around,” Janson observed. “Once more…”

The speeder swept left to right in front of the giant legs, towing the cable behind it.

“Once more…” Janson urged.

Wedge swung the speeder between the legs of the giant walker.

“Cable out! Let her go!”

“Detach cable!” Wedge shouted.

The cable release on the back of the speeder snapped loose and the cable dropped away.

“Cable detached,” Janson confirmed.

The speeder zoomed away into the distance. The tangled legs of the enormous war machine attempted a step, but as they do the giant Imperial walker toppled. It teetered for a moment, then crashed onto the icy ground, sending snow and metal pieces flying.

The troops in the trenches cheered at the sight of the crashing walker. An officer gave the signal to his men and Rebel troops charged the fallen war machine.

“Come on!” The trench officer shouted.

The troops rushed toward the downed walker, followed by two Rebel speeders flying overhead. Just as they reach the walker, it exploded, the impact throwing some of the men onto the frozen ground.

Wedge let out a triumphant yell, banking his speeder away from the fallen walker.

“Whoo-ha!” Wedge yelled. “That got him!”

“I see it, Wedge,” Luke confirmed, through commlink. “Good work.”

<> 

Large chunks of ice tumbled into the command center, as Leia and General Rieekan monitor computer screens.

“I don’t think we can protect two transports at a time,” Rieekan spoke worried.

“It’s risky, but we can’t hold out much longer,” Leia spoke. “We have no choice.”

“Launch patrols,” Rieekan ordered through commlink.

Princess Leia turned toward Storm Shield and Twilight Sparkle.

“You two, evacuate the remaining ground staff,” Leia ordered.

“Already on it!” Storm saluted.

The two raced off to rejoin the others deep in the base. Muffled distant explosions create widening cracks in the ice roof of the hangar. Trying to ignore the noise and falling bits of snow, Han worked on one of the Falcon’s lifters while Chewie worked on one of the wings. Noticing Chewie attached the wrong part, Han grew impatient.

“No, no! No!” Han shouted. “This one goes there, that one goes there. Right?”

Twilight and Storm arrive at the other area of the hangar, where 3PO watched R2 rise into Luke’s X-wing fighter.

“R2, you take good care of Master Luke now, understand?” 3PO asked. “And… do take good care of yourself. Oh, dear, oh dear.”

“Don’t worry 3PO, it’s all part of the plan,” Twilight assured. “R2 will look after Luke just fine. Not to mention he’ll have Rainbow Dash out there too. Nothing gets by her.”

Rainbow leaned against the X-wing with a cocky smirk on her face.

“Well… yeah!” She nodded. “I’m just that awesome!”

“The rest of us should find some cover,” Rarity suggested. “I pray to Celestia we will come out of this in one piece.”

“Now that’s my kind of plan,” Fluttershy sighed.

Suddenly, Storm felt a sensation come over him. He held his now aching head and leaned forward a bit. Twilight noticed his change in demeanor and came to his side to check on him.

“Storm, what’s wrong?” She asked worriedly.

Storm recovered from his headache and looked towards the entrance to the base.

“Something really bad is coming,” He warned.

Pinkie then began to shake uncontrollably as her Pinkie Sense started going haywire.

“H-H-H-H-e-e-e-e-e’s r-r-r-r-right about t-t-t-that!” She agreed uncontrollably.

“Now what?!” Spike groaned.

Storm immediately reached behind him and grabbed his saber pike, which he quickly ignited. The girls and Spike stood beside him as they looked out to see a Sith spacecraft come flying out from over the Imperial Walkers and shoot down a squadron of Rebel troops. The craft came down just outside the now unguarded base and the rear hatch opened. From the hatch emerged a quadruple lightsaber wielding General Grievous, the Dazzling Inquisitors, and Darth Seraphina, now with her new apprentice Demitria. The Sith women all ignited their own lightsabers as Seraphina led the approach.

“KILL THEM ALL!!!”
> Good Vs Evil
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The fierce battle on the vast snow plains of Hoth raged on. The Imperial walkers continued their slow, steady assault on the Rebel base, firing lasers as they lumbered ever onward. In the snow trench, Rebel troops fired large bazooka-like guns and dish-like ray guns as explosions erupted around them. A gun tower was struck by a laser bolt, instantly exploding. Another blast destroyed a ray gun.

As all this went on, things turned incredibly bad for the Equestrian group. Darth Seraphina and her dark entourage just landed at the entrance of the base and were ready to begin their assault.

“KILL THEM ALL!!!”

Together, Grievous, the Dazzling Inquisitors, and Demitria leapt into action as they ran rough shot through the base. Any rebel troopers unlucky enough to get in their path were instantly killed by the nefarious group. Seeing the carnage unfold before their eyes, Storm and the girls knew they couldn’t just stand around and do nothing.

“Alright… let’s do this,” Storm said determined.

Quick as a whip, the Jedi prince quickly sprinted towards the ongoing battle and made a beeline for General Grievous. Storm used the force to propel himself through the air toward the cyborg general, but Grievous’ sensors tracked his approach. Acting quick, Grievous whipped around and blocked an incoming attack with one of his own lightsabers as Storm landed before him.

“General Grievous…” Storm growled.

“Master Storm Shield…” Grievous chuckled darkly. “Still meddling in affairs of no concern for you I see. I may not have had the opportunity to end your miserable existence before, but I’ll be sure to rectify that now.”

“You talk too much…”

Storm Shield charged at Grievous, swinging his saber pike with such intensity. But Grievous easily blocked Storm’s attacks as if having the ability to calculate his moves. The reengineered war machine went on a vicious onslaught as he swung all four of his sabers one after another at the young Jedi. Thankfully, Storm had been trained immensely for situations like this and successful in blocking every blow.

While this went on, Twilight and the girls quickly rushed to grab a few blasters to defend themselves against the attack. Just then, the three sisters emerged, and the Third Sister ignited her own lightsaber. 

“Bringing guns to a sword fight…” The Third Sister replied. “Sisters, I’d say these kids have made a most unfortunate mistake.”

“Actually, I think you got your ‘P’s and ‘Q’s mixed up,” Pinkie Pie pointed out. “The expressions is meant to be, ‘Never bring a sword to a gun fight’…”

“NEVER INTERRUPT ME!!!”

Pinkie Pie quickly shut her mouth as the group held their guns at the ready, prepared to fire in case the three Sisters made their move.

“You girls were very clever to hide from us these past three years…” The Third Sister continued. “Unfortunately, your meddling ends right here. Especially you… Twilight Sparkle…”

Twilight Sparkle held her ground as she stood beside her friends. Spike stood in front of her, growling fiercely toward the masked Inquisitors. A dark chuckle emerged from the Third Sister as she just glared through her mask.

“There’s someone who’s been just dying to see you…”

The Sisters slowly stepped aside as Darth Seraphina stepped forward. Twilight Sparkle felt a twinge of fierce magic emanating off of her being. Darth Seraphina stared at Twilight fiercely, as the latter could feel her fingertips twitched slightly off the trigger of her gun.

“Twilight Sparkle…” Darth Seraphina growled. “I’ve come for you…”

“D-D-D-Do I know you?” Twilight asked, frightened.

“No… and you never will.”

Darth Seraphina drew her own lightsaber out from her hilt, igniting the crimson red blade as she took a fighting stance.

“And today… I finally get the chance to kill you after everything you’ve done.”

“Not if we can help it!” Rainbow threatened, firing her gun.

But to their shock, Seraphina quickly raised a hand and the blast exploded before it contacted her. Rainbow’s eyes turned to pinpricks seeing how powerful this adversary turned out to be. 

“My quarrel is not with you,” Seraphina spoke, turning to the Sisters. “Deal with the ‘vermin’, but Twilight Sparkle is mine.”

“As you wish…” The Inquisitors said, in unison.

Quickly, the Inquisitors charged forward as Darth Seraphina slowly stalked from behind the trio. The halls exploded with fire, as the Equestrians fired their guns toward the Sith most of their blasts brushed aside by lightsaber strikes as the four figures made their way close to the group. While Demetria, on the other hand, stood her ground waiting to strike on command.

<> 

Meanwhile, General Veer studied the various readouts on his control panel in his Imperial Snow Walker.

“All troops will debark for ground assault,” Veers instructed. “Prepare to target the main generator.”

<> 

Luke’s speeder and Rogue Two flew in formation, banking from right to left and flying above the erupting battlefield. Flak bursts all around them. Luke, glancing over, could see Rogue Two on his left. His ship shuddered as flak bursts nearby. 

“Rogue Two, are you all right?” Luke asked, through commlink.

“Yeah. I’m with you, Rogue Leader,” Zev answered, through commlink.

“We’ll set harpoon. I’ll cover for you.”

The two speeders raced across the horizon toward the giant walkers.

“Coming around,” Zev informed.

“Watch that crossfire, boys,” Luke warned.

“Set for position three,” Zev informed his gunner. “Steady.”

“Stay tight and low,” Luke instructed.

Luke’s speeder moved in formation with Rogue Two, when suddenly Zev’s speeder was struck by a laser bolt. His ship bucked violently under the impact and the cockpit exploded in a ball of flame. Spewing smoke, the speeder hurtled toward a looming walker. Before they collide, Rogue Two exploded in a million flaming pieces.

Desperately, Luke worked the controls of his flak-buffeted ship. Suddenly, the speeder was rocked by a huge explosion. Luke struggled with the controls with a look of terror on his face. The speeder filled with smoke, as electrical sparks jumped about the cockpit.

“Hobbie, I’ve been hit!” Luke called, into commlink.

<> 

Apart from the distant thunder of laser blasts, the corridor was strangely quiet and empty. Running footsteps echo through the freezing hallway when Han appeared. Cracks appeared in some of the walls and some pipes have been broken, sending hot steam billowing into the underground hallways. Han hurried into the command center. The whole place was in shambles, but some people are still at their posts. As he entered, a gigantic cave-in almost obliterated the entire room. He found Leia and 3PO near one of the control boards.

“You all right?” Han asked.

Leia nodded, surprised to see him.

“Why are you still here?” Leia asked.

“I heard the command center had been hit,” Han answered.

“You got your clearance to leave.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll leave. First, I’m going to get you to your ship.”

“Your Highness, we must take this last transport,” 3PO suggested. “It’s our only hope.”

“Send all troops in sector twelve to the south slope to protect the fighters,” Leia commanded, to controller.

A blast rocked the command center, throwing 3PO backward into Han’s arms.

“Imperial troops have entered the base,” The announcer informed, through loudspeaker.

“Come on… that’s it,” Han pushed.

“Give the evacuation code signal,” Leia instructed the head controller. “And get to your transports!”

Leia looked exhausted, as Han grabbed her and started to lead her out. As Han, Leia, and 3PO raced out of the command center, the code signal could be heard echoing off the corridor walls.

“K-one-zero… all troops disengage!” The Head Controller announced.

“Oh! Wait for me!” 3PO called out, waddling behind.

<> 

Amongst all the chaos in the base, one of the doors slid open. A figure slowly emerged for a peak. Starkiller, barely recovered, stepped away from the room and leaned his head out. He could feel the familiar wave of the force flowing through the halls, powerful beings have already made their way into the base. With a look of determination, Starkiller slowly made his way down the hall drawing his lightsaber hilt.

<> 

Rebel troops make to retreat under the awesome Imperial onslaught.

“Begin retreat!” An officer called out.

“Fall back!” The second officer shouted.

Troops flee from the battle, the ground exploding around them. Three of the giant walkers, firing lasers, advanced toward the Rebel headquarters. Continuing their retreat, the Rebels could see the walkers looming ever nearer.

On the battlefield, Luke watched as a walker foot rose and moved over him. He looked up at the underbelly of the huge walker, passing overhead. Running beneath the monstrous machine, Luke fired his harpoon gun at the walker’s underside. A thin cable followed the projectile from the gun. The magnetic head and cable attached firmly to the metal hull. Still running under the walker, Luke attached the cable drum to his belt buckle. Soon he pulled his way up the cable, dangling just underneath the walker.

The walker’s giant feet continued to pound onward across the frozen snow. Stray laser bolts whistled by Luke as he climbed up the cable to the walker’s hull, reaching a small hatch. Hanging precariously, Luke cut the solid metal hatch with his laser sword. He took a landmine from around his neck and threw it inside the Imperial machine. Quickly, Luke started down the cable and crashed onto the icy ground far below. He laid unconscious as a giant rear leg passed by—just missing him.

The giant walker stopped mid-step. A muffled explosion came from within—and then the walker’s mechanical insides spewed out every conceivable opening. The machine sat dead in its tracks, smoking like a locomotive on stilts.

<> 

Veer’s walker continued to advance toward the Rebel base. The smoldering walker Luke exploded stood smoking just right of Veers’ path. Inside his walker, General Veers prepared to fire on the Rebel power generators.

“Distance to power generators?” Veers asked.

“One-seven, decimal two-eight,” The pilot informed.

Veers reached for the electro-orangefinder and lined up the main generator.

“Target. Maximum fire power,” Veers commanded.

<> 

The Rebel troops continued their desperate retreat, pushed back by the relentless Imperial assault.

<> 

With 3PO lagging behind, Han and Leia raced through the crumbling ice corridors. Suddenly, there was an explosion.

*BOOM!!!*

Han turned, grabbed the princess, and pulled her to the wall as a tremendous cave-in blocked their path. He took the commlink from his pocket.

“Transport, this is Solo,” Han called out. “Better take off—I can’t get to you. I’ll get the princess out on the Falcon.”

Han and Leia turned and raced down the corridor.

“But… but… but… where are you going?” 3PO called out. “Uh… come back!!”

<> 

As they were dealing with their precarious situation, the Equestrians were still in the midst of their own issues. While Storm and Grievous continued their epic battle, the rest of the girls tried to fend off the Inquisitors. Rainbow Dash and Applejack in particular faced a difficult time with one Inquistor, who instead of drawing her blade, she blocked all the blasts with merely her hands. The two kept firing desperately until the Inquisitor drew forward and grabbed the guns by the head and crushed them with her own hands.

“Whoa!” Rainbow gasped. “Talk about being really good with your hands.”

Tossing the damaged guns aside, the Inquisitor lunged out and slammed the girls to their stomachs knocking the wind out of them. Then with great force, she sent the girls toward the walls with a grunt. Applejack stumbled forward and the Inquisitor took her down with a vicious swinging kick to the face knocking her out. Enraged, Rainbow cried out and lunged a series of fists toward her, but the Inquisitor smoothly dodged and brushed aside each strike. Rainbow leaned close when the Inquisitor grabbed her right arm, slammed her fist viciously under the armpit before twisting around with a spinning elbow to the side of Rainbow’s head knocking her out.

Meanwhile, there was a heavy grunt as Twilight Sparkle landed on the cold floor as Darth Seraphina loomed over her. The fiery Sith lady stared toward the princess through her mask, as she held her saber dangerously close to her throat.

“I’ve waited to do this for three years,” Seraphina said triumphantly. “Though I never expected this moment to be… disappointing. I hoped you’d work up more of a fight than this. Nevertheless, it’s high time I ended you once and for all. Goodbye, Twilight Sparkle.”

Seraphina raised her dual saber high above her head, ready to strike Twilight down. The rest of her friends saw what Seraphina was doing but could not get to her due to their dealings with the Inquisitors. Just when the blade came down, rather than striking Twilight, it collide with another blade of crimson red. Seraphina growled angrily and Twilight looked up with shock as Starkiller stood with his own saber clashing with hers.

“You…” Seraphina raged. “I thought we’d seen the last of you after shooting you into space.”

“I’m not easy to kill,” Starkiller responded.

Using the force, he pushed backwards by a few feet. She quickly regained her balance and stood at the ready again.

“You destroyed the only person I truly cared about,” Starkiller continued. “I won’t let you kill anyone else.”

Before Starkiller or Serpahina could act, Demetria leapt over Seraphina and stood in defense of her master. She too held her lightsaber drawn and ready to hack and slash.

“No one touches my master,” Demetria threatened. “Especially ‘traitors’ to the empire…”

“Two against one?” Starkiller asked, raising a brow. “I’ll take those odds.”

Together Seraphina and Demetria lunged toward Starkiller, who swung and blocked their ongoing assault with his own lightsaber. A two-on-one fight took place as the Sith and her apprentice took the fight to Starkiller, giving Twilight Sparkle time to recover. Everyone was in action, with Rarity thrown aside by the Third Sister as Fluttershy looked on from a hiding space. 

With one of the girls disposed momentarily, the Third Sister stalked toward Pinkie Pie who looked around nervously. Acting quickly, she reached into her hair… and drew out a Qutluch in defense.

*SLASH!*

The Third Sister sliced the blade in half. Pinkie Pie again reached into her hair… and drew out a whip. She tries to hack the Third Sister…

*SLASH!*

The Third Sister merely slit the whip in the center. Pinkie Pie once more reached into her hair… and drew out a chainsaw. The Third Sister shook her head and simply tapped the lightsaber against the chainsaw… literally dismantling the chain as sparks flew before Pinkie’s eyes. She looked at the now damaged chainsaw and dropped it on the ground. She chuckled nervously toward the Inquisitor.

“Uh… parley?” Pinkie smiled.

“Wrong universe…” The Third Sister replied.

Just as The Third Sister lunged out, she felt a set of teeth clamp her leg.

“OWWWWWW!!!” The Third Sister cried out.

Dropping her lightsaber, The Third Sister looked down and saw Spike gnawing against her leg with his teeth. She tried to shake off the dog, but Spike fiercely hung on with all his might. The other Sister quickly came to the Third Sister’s aid and grabbed Spike by the collar, pulling him off. Spike waved his paws and growled trying to free himself as the Inquisitor merely looked at Spike.

“Aw, aren’t you just the cutest thing…” The Sister replied. “And… now I’m bored…”

She carelessly hurled Spike into the air sending him crashing into the wall. The pup plopped to the ground unconscious much to the shock and horror of Fluttershy, witnessing it from hiding. Suddenly, her right eye started to twitch… her nostrils flared out. Breathing heavily, Fluttershy emerged from hiding and charged toward the Inquisitor with a growl. Seeing Fluttershy, the Sister tried to use the force, but Fluttershy tackled into her before she had a chance and knocked her down with a squeak. She found herself holding her arms in defense, as Fluttershy rammed her fists against her enemy.

Seeing her sister in trouble, the Third Sister reached out to help when Pinkie Pie quickly came from behind and slapped her on the head. Suddenly, the Inquisitor started to twitch and shake as if she were struck by electricity. Pinkie Pie held onto her helmet for a few more seconds until she let go and the Third Sister crashed to the floor unconscious. Pinkie Pie held her palm out to the fallen Inquisitor, revealing a hand-buzzer.

“Can’t beat a classic…” Pinkie smiled.

Meanwhile, the unarmed Inquisitor saw her fellow Inquisitor in trouble and Fluttershy beating her down with her fists. The sister quickly raced to her aid as Fluttershy turned, her eyes partly glowing red. The Sister swung her fist toward Fluttershy, who quickly blocked with an arm and the two women found themselves firing a barrage of fists toward the other. The fallen Equestrian Heroes were still recovering when they saw the fight before them, staring in awe and shock.

In unarmed combat, Fluttershy and the Sister switched between fists and kicks. Fluttershy jumping over a leg sweep and the Sister ducking a spin kick. Neither blow managed to make their mark, yet surprisingly the Sister found herself backing away. Finally, Fluttershy managed a kick to the Sister’s stomach pushing her back and she turned… right into a pair of Superkicks to the face by Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The Sister stood there for a moment until she fell back onto the snow. The two girls looked down in triumph before seeing Fluttershy, who started to calm down slightly… before she too falls forward in exhaustion and the girls barely catch her.

Meanwhile, Starkiller and Storm Shield found themselves backing away while their enemies were pushing them back with their lightsabers. Both combatants blocked with their lightsabers, preventing their enemies from attacking them. Eventually, the two young men found themselves backing into each other. One quick look and they quickly formed a plan. They switched places, and Starkiller fired force lighting toward General Grievous, sending a shockwave through the cyborg’s circuits as the general growled in agony before bending to the floor. Storm Shield quickly sent a force push against the two Sith, knocking them backward onto the ground. As Storm struggled to hold them down, Starkiller approached Twilight Sparkle and helped her up.

“You… you saved me?” Twilight asked.

“I did not do it for you,” Starkiller answered. “I did it for her.”

Then Starkiller quickly took off past Twilight and made his way toward Storm Shield.

“Get the girls out of here,” Starkiller instructed. “Do not let them take the Princess.”

“You’re not coming with us?” Storm asked.

“You know why…”

“… I do,” Storm nodded, understanding. “Look for the Millennium Falcon. Captain Han can get you out of here.”

Starkiller nodded before he raced off down the hall. Storm released the force and lead the girls away, with Rainbow Dash & Applejack helping Fluttershy and Rarity lifting an unconscious Spike in her arms with Pinkie close behind. A growl escaped Seraphina’s lips, as Demetria raced to help her master.

“Don’t help me!” Seraphina shouted. “Stop him…”

Nodding in response, Demetria took off after Starkiller as Seraphina slowly picked herself up. She slowly marched down the pathway, passing the down General Grievous and leaving the other Inquisitors behind to recover. Only one thing was on Seraphina’s mind right now… getting Twilight Sparkle at all costs.

<> 

Meanwhile, Imperial troops reached the base. As they pushed through the blocked passageway, Darth Vader strode behind them.

<> 

Han and Leia raced toward the entrance of the main hangar where the Millennium Falcon was docked. 3PO still lagged behind.

“Wait! Wait for me!” 3PO called out. “Wait! Stop!”

The door to the hangar closed on his face.

“How typical!” 3PO exasperated. 

Quickly, the door reopened as Han reached out and pulled the golden droid through.

“Come on!” Han grunted.

Chewie paced under the shelter of the Millennium Falcon’s landing gear. The giant Wookiee pat the underbelly of his beloved ship, barking a few reassuring words. As he searched worriedly for his captain, something at last caught his eye. Chewie released a relieved shriek seeing Han and Leia run toward the ship. The Wookiee raced out into the falling ice, releasing a howl, and ran up the ship’s ramp. Han and Leia ran up the ramp after him, closely followed by 3PO.

“Hurry up, goldenrod!” Han called out. “Or you’re going to be a permanent resident!”

“Wait! Wait!” 3PO shouted.

<> 

Imperial troops run through the base corridors. Vader surveyed the place. A huge chunk fell, almost hitting him. But he calmly, purposefully, continued around it.

<> 

A distant, huge explosion rocked the hangar deck. Ice crashed down along the Millennium Falcon. Inside, Han stood before a control panel and busily flipped switches as Chewie watched a troublesome gauge. A worried Leia observed their efforts.

“How’s this?” Han asked Chewie.

The Wookiee barked a negative reply.

“Would it help if I got out and pushed?” Leia asked sarcastically.

“It might,” Han remarked.

3PO clanked into the hold.

“Captain Solo, Captain Solo…” 3PO spoke up. “Sir, might I suggest that you…”

Han gave the golden robot a devastating look.

“It can wait.”

They move to the cockpit where Han flipped some more switches. Leia watched him, impatient and disbelieving.

“This bucket of bolts is never going to get us past that blockade,” Leia argued.

“This baby’s got a few surprises left in her, sweetheart,” Han remarked.

Han and Leia looked out the cockpit window and spotted a squad of stormtroopers rushing into the far side of the hangar. Quickly, Han strapped himself into the pilot’s seat and Leia into the navigator’s chair.

Stormtroopers hurriedly set up a large bazooka-like weapon. Behind them, the giant hangar doors opened slowly. And suddenly, a blast of electricity ignited the stormtroopers from behind them and they scattered about in all directions. Han looked out through the window and saw Starkiller slowly make his way through the scattered remains of his former comrades his eyes toward the ship.

“Room for one more!” Starkiller called out.

Without another word, Han opened the door into the ship and Stormkiller quickly made his way into the ship as the door sealed behind him. Chewie rushed into the cockpit amidst all the chaos while Han tried to get the ship started.

“Come on! Come on!” Han called out. “Switch over. Let’s hope we don’t have a burnout.”

A laser hit the window near Chewie as he settled into his chair. More Stormtroopers were coming toward the ship. Letting out a loud whelp, Chewie quickly pulled back on the controls and the first stage of engine fire could be heard. Han flashed a big grin at Leia.

“See?” Han spoke.

By then, Starkiller made his way toward the cockpit and Leia was not the least bit happy.

“You?! What’s a Sith doing on the ship?” Leia argued.

“This ‘Sith’ happens to be the guy saving your life,” Starkiller argued. “They’re coming into the Hangar and it’s not Stormtroopers I’m worried about.”

“He’s a good kid, Princess,” Han vouched. “We can trust him.”

“Someday you’re going to be wrong,” Leia warned. “And I hope I’m there to see it.”

“Punch it!” Han ordered Chewie.

The roar of the Falcon’s main engines blasted out everything as the ice-cave wall rushed by outside the cockpit window. Starkiller gazed toward the window as they made their escape, as more stormtroopers raced into the hanger. Followed closely are Demetria… and Darth Vader. Hearing the roar of the Millennium Falcon’s engines, Vader looked toward the main hangar doors just in time to see the Falcon lift up and disappear outside the cave. But he feels something in the force inside that ship, as he and Demetria looked on.

“Marek…” Vader spoke.

<> 

In the meantime, Luke and the two other pilots looked up as the Millennium Falcon raced above them, flying very close to the ground. The three pilots turned and trudged onward toward their X-wing fighters, each going to their own ship. Luke waved farewell then headed toward his own fighter. R2, seated on his cubbyhole, chirped an excited greeting as Luke climbed aboard the spacecraft.

“R2! Get her ready for takeoff!” Luke ordered.

From his ship, Luke saw Wedge in his own X-wing, preparing for takeoff.

“Good luck, Luke,” Wedge waved. “See you at the rendezvous.”

Luke smiled with a nod toward Wedge, then lowered himself into the cockpit of his X-wing while R2 waited in the cubbyhole, beeping impatiently.

“Don’t worry, R2. We’re going, we’re going.”

The canopy over the X-wing lowers and eventually snapped shut. Luke’s fighter, its wings closed, sped away from the icy planet. Before disappearing into the stars.

<> 

All the while, Storm and the girls were finally able to fully regroup once they escaped from a major threat. They took notice of Luke’s fighter speeding off into space.

“Looks like he’s on his way to Dagobah,” Storm pointed out.

“How are going to follow him now?” Twilight asked.

“All the speeders were destroyed in the assault,” Rainbow added.

“And that Starkiller feller is on the Falcon with Han and Leia,” Applejack spoke up.

Storm took a look out toward the oncoming Imperial forces quickly making their way towards the base. Thinking quickly, he remembered something he hid away years ago in an event he’d return here.

“I have just the thing,” Storm declared.

With a quick snap of his fingers and a bright flash of light, a giant ancient Jedi starship appeared at the entrance of the rebel base.



The girls and Spike looked wide-eyed and with mouths agape toward the giant ship before Rainbow turned to Storm.

“You have a speeder and a starship?” She asked in disbelief.

“Jealous?” Storm asked smugly.

“Kinda…” Rainbow mumbled, under her breath.

“What are we waiting for?!” Rarity yelled. “Let’s get out of here before those creepy Sith guys get us!”

<> 

In his own X-wing, Luke, looking thoughtful, suddenly reached a decision. He flipped several switches. The stars shifted as he took his fighter into a steep turn. The X-wing banked sharply and flew away in a new direction. The monitor screen on Luke’s control panel printed out a question from the concerned R2.

“There’s nothing wrong, R2,” Luke spoke, through his commlink. “I’m just setting a new course.”

Suddenly his commlink buzzed as a new signal reached out to him. Luke adjusted the commlink to answer the call.

“Taking a slight detour, Luke?” Storm asked.

“Storm?” Luke answered. “You made it! Are the girls all right?”

“We’re all here. A few scrapes and bruises but we made it. The group is taking a rest while I’m taking the old girl for a spin. Look out your cockpit.”

And Luke did just that as he saw Storm’s ship following at a close distance behind him. R2 beeped excitedly at the site.

“Now… are you going to tell your friend about our little change of plans?” Storm asked. “Or else I should tell him?”

“He’s right, R2,” Luke confirmed. “We’re not going to regroup with the others.”

R2 began to protest, whistling an unbelieving, ‘What?!’. Luke read R2’s exclamation on his control panel.

“We’re going to the Dagobah system,” Luke answered, into commlink.

“There’s someone in that system we’re supposed to meet,” Storm added. “If he’s still alive, he has the tools we need to handle the Emperor and the Sith that are after us.”

Luke checked his readouts and made a few adjustments. He rode along with only the soft hum of the instruments to break the silence. Finally, R2 chirped up.

“Yes, R2?”

R2 uttered a soft, carefully phrased stream of whistles.

“That’s all right,” Luke chuckled. “I’d like to keep it on manual control for a while.

The little droid released a defeated whimper. Luke smiled, as he continued his course with Storm’s ship not far behind.

Meanwhile, in the comfort of his own ship, Storm Shield set his ship to autopilot. With the ship in forward motion, Storm climbed out of his seat and approached the other girls, he found them settled into whatever space they could find to rest. The poor girls had been through so much in the course of a single day and needed as much rest as they could get. Storm stood over Twilight Sparkle, lightly brushing a hand over her hair as she released a sigh yet remained undisturbed. Storm soon went back to the pilot seat and stared out toward the stars.

“Good luck Han and Leia,” Storm spoke to himself. “Stay safe…”

<> 

The Millennium Falcon sped away from Hoth, closely followed by one huge Star Destroyer and four tiny TIE fighters. As it pursued, the Falcon raced toward two very bright star-sized objects.

Inside the cockpit, Chewie let out a loud howl. Han checked as the ship was buffeted by exploding flak. He appeared to be doing six things at once.

“I saw them!” Han shouted, harried. “I saw them!”

“Saw what?” Leia questioned.

“Star Destroyers,” Starkiller answered. “Two of them… they’re coming for us.”

3PO bumped and banged his way into the cockpit.

“Sir, sir! Might I suggest…”

“Shut him up or shut him down!” Han ordered Leia, facing Chewie. “Check the deflector shield!”

Chewie barked a reply as he readjusted an overhead switch.

“Oh, great. Well, we can still outmaneuver them,” Han sighed.

“True… but not for long,” Starkiller warned, looking out.

The Millennium Falcon raced toward one of the huge oncoming Star Destroyers. Suddenly, the Falcon started for a deep dive straight down, closely followed by four TIE fighters. The underside of the Star Destroyer continued on a collision course with two oncoming Star Destroyers. Slowly, it started veering to the left.

Out the front window of the bridge, the two approaching Star Destroyers veered to the left.

“Take evasive action!” The Imperial Officer shouted.

Alarms sounded all over the huge ship. Two other Star Destroyers got closer, one of them moving over the bridge so close that it makes brushing contact with it.

The Millenium Falcon raced away from the colliding Star Destroyers, still followed by four TIE fighters. Laser bolts spark the pitch-black skies.

Things have calmed down a bit, but the race isn’t over yet. Chewie barked at Han, while Leia was still trying to recover from the steep dive. Starkiller forced himself to stay balanced while the ship was buffeted by laser fire.

“Prepare to make the jump to light-speed,” Han announced.

“But sir!” 3PO called out.

The buffeting of lasers become louder and stronger. 

“They’re getting closer!” Leia spoke.

“Oh yeah?” Han asked, a gleam in his eye. “Watch this.”

Expectantly, they looked out the cockpit window… but the stars don’t go into hyperspace. They just sit there. Han and Chewie looked at each other, thrown into an acute state of concern.

“Watch what?” Leia asked.

Han tried again… still nothing.

“I think we’re in trouble,” Han confirmed.

“You think?” Starkiller asked.

“If I may say so, sir,” 3PO spoke up. “I noticed earlier that the hyperdrive motivator has been damaged. It’s impossible to go to light-speed!”

“Why didn’t you say anything in the first place?” Starkiller asked.

“I tried!”

“We’re in trouble!” Han groaned.

Their worst fears are confirmed as the explosions become heavier. The Falcon raced into the starry vastness, followed by the four Imperial TIE fighters and an Imperial Star Destroyer. Stars race by as flak burst outside the Falcon’s window.

Han worked furiously at some control panels while giving various orders to Chewie.

“Horizontal boosters… (Chewie barks)! Alluvial dampers…! Well, that’s not it (Chewie barks). Bring me the hydro-spanners!”

Chewie hurried over to the pit, placing the tools on the edge.

“I don’t know how we’re going to get out of this one,” Han spoke.

Suddenly, a loud thump hit the side of the Falcon, causing it to lurch radically. Chewie barked as the tools fell into the pit atop of Han.

“Ow! Chewie!”

More turbulence rocked the ship.

“That was no laser fire!” Han observed. “Something hit us.”

“Han, get up here!” Leia called out, over commlink.

“Come on, Chewie!” Han shouted.

Han climbed out of the hold like a shot. Both he and Chewie raced out of the hold and toward the cockpit. Out the front cockpit window, they see hundreds of asteroids racing by.

“Asteroids!” Leia pointed out.

Han changed places with Leia who has been at the controls, and Chewie got into his chair. Han worked his controls as a chunk of rock crosses in front of the ship.

“Oh, no! Chewie, set two-seven-one,” Han instructed.

“What are you doing?” Leia asked. “You’re not actually going into an asteroid field?”

“They’d be crazy to follow us, wouldn’t they?”

“Crazy is the more polite term,” Starkiller replied. “But it could slow them down.”

Another asteroid thumped against the ship and Leia winced at the jolt.

“You don’t have to do this to impress me,” Leia remarked.

“Sir, the possibility of successfully navigating an asteroid field is approximately three thousand, seven hundred and twenty to one,” 3PO calculated.

“Never tell me the odds!” Han shouted.

The Falcon turned into the asteroid storm, as the ship completed its turn. Asteroids started coming straight at the cockpit windows.

A large asteroid tumbled away from the Falcon’s path at top speed. Several smaller asteroids crash into the big one, creating small explosions on its surface. Other asteroids of all sizes passed every direction, some colliding and exploding. The tiny Millennium Falcon veered around the big asteroid and raced past it through the rain of rocks, followed by four TIE fighters, which bobbed and weaved around the asteroids.

One of the pursuing TIE fighters connected with an asteroid and exploded. The other fighters pelted with a steady stream of smaller explosions. Two huge asteroids tumble toward the Millennium Falcon, which quickly banked around both of them. The three TIE fighters followed in hot pursuit until one of the fighters scraped an asteroid and tumbled out of control into deep space.

The massive Star Destroyer blasted oncoming asteroids as it followed the Falcon. Smaller asteroids explode across its vast surface. 

The Falcon twists on its side as it raced around an oncoming asteroid. Two TIE fighters followed in the distance, coming from either side. Asteroids raced by the cockpit window as Han piloted his trusty craft through the dangerous field. 

Looking out the cockpit window, the Falcon crew saw a big asteroid drop past the window, narrowly missing their ship. Chewie barked in terror as a slightly smaller asteroid comes especially close—close to—and bounced off the Falcon with a loud crunch. 3PO’s hands covered his eyes. He managed a short peek at the cockpit window. Princess Leia sat stone-faced, Starkiller a good distance away, both staring at the action. Han gave her a quick look.

“You said you wanted to be around when I made a mistake,” Han remarked. “Well, this could be it, sweetheart.”

“I take it back,” Leia muttered. “We’re going to get pulverized if we stay out here much longer.”

“Because there’s just no pleasing you is there,” Starkiller replied, dryly.

“Shut up…”

The group watched as more asteroids raced by outside the window.

“I’m not going to argue with that,” Han replied.

“Pulverized?” 3PO spoke worriedly.

“I’m going in closer to one of those big ones.”

“Closer?” Leia questioned.

“Closer?!” 3PO repeated.

Chewbacca barked the same word, only louder.

“There’s no other choice,” Starkiller spoke. “Beats ducking around and risk getting torn apart.”

The Millenium Falcon dove toward the surface of one of the moon-sized asteroids. There was a continued display of explosions against the starry void as smaller asteroids collided with larger chunks of rock. The two remaining TIE fighters followed the Falcon to the large asteroid. The Falcon skimmed the surface of the giant asteroid as, all the while, small asteroids exploded on the surface of the ship.

The TIE fighters approached the Falcon, but a giant asteroid hurtled directly into their path. As the asteroid continued on its way, it left remains of the two exploded TIE fighters tumbling into deep space. 

Rattled by the violent rocking of the starship, 3PO was nearly in hysterics.

“Oh, this is suicide!”

Han noticed something on his main scope and nudged his faithful Wookiee with a single finger pointing.

“There. That looks pretty good.”

“What looks pretty good?” Leia asked.

“It’ll have to do for now,” Starkiller confirmed.

“Excuse me sir, but where are we going?” 3PO asked Starkiller.

“If we’re lucky… out of harm’s way.”

Out of the cockpit window, they see they are skimming the surface of the enormous asteroid and neared a large crater. The Millennium Falcon dove into the huge crater and disappeared.

“I hope you know what you’re doing,” Leia spoke.

“Yeah, me too,” Han nodded.

“And what are we going to do about him?”

The crew looked toward Starkiller, who merely stared at each of them with a blank expression. All the while the Falcon raced into the crater. The walls barely visible as the ship sped through the tunnel-like opening. A small cave appeared on one side of the crater, and the Falcon turned, slowing, and scooting into it.
> Dagobah
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Having successful escaped the Empire’s attack on Hoth, Luke Skywalker, Storm Shield, and the girls were now in the midst of traveling to the Dagobah system. Luke’s tiny X-wing sped toward the cloud cover of Dagobah, closely followed by Storm’s Republic starship. R2, riding the back of the fighter, turned his head back-and-forth with some anxiety. Just then, Storm’s voice came over Luke’s intercom.

“Looks like we’re coming in on the planet pretty hot Luke,” He said. “If you don’t want to crash and explode, I’d slow down.”

“Will do Storm,” Luke responded.

Luke pulled back on the controls, slowing his fighter down to a cruising speed as R2 started beeping. Luke watched R2’s words as they are translated and screened on the computer scope.

“Yes, that’s it,” Luke confirmed, via commlink. “Dagobah.”

R2 beeped a hopeful inquiry.

“No, I’m not going to change my mind about this. I’m not picking up any cities or technology.”

“There’s something alive down there,” Storm spoke, through intercom. “Scanners are detecting massive life-form readings.”

R2 beeped in response, this time with a slightly worried question.

“Yes, I’m sure it’s perfectly safe for droids,” Luke reassured.

“Nevertheless, never a bad idea to take precautions,” Storm warned. “I’d watch your six, take it slow and keep her steady. I’ll wake up the girls.”

“Roger that.”

<> 

Storm Shield once more set the ship to autopilot. Once the systems were set, he casually worked his way from his pilot seat and drew his way through the ship. It did not take long for Storm to reach the compartment where the girls were still asleep. Most of the girls had their own place to sleep, with Spike nestled atop of Twilight. Applejack and Rainbow Dash, on the other hand, were comfortably snugged together in one bed.

“Wakey-wakey girls!” Storm called out, rapping the walls. “We’re landing.”

The girls stirred themselves awake upon hearing Storm’s voice. The girls picked themselves up from their bunks, stretching out their limbs (Some of whom actually cracking). Rarity removed an eye mask from her eyes as a cute yawn escaped, while Twilight carefully lifted and dropped Spike upon the floor as he shook himself awake. Rainbow Dash rolled herself out of the bed, while Applejack lifted herself up and reached around for her Stetson hat.

“Ahem!”

Applejack tiredly opened her eyes to find Rainbow Dash holding the hat toward her. The rainbow haired teen’s eyebrows motioned up and down with a cheeky grin. Applejack just smiled back and swiftly took her hat back. Pinkie Pie was the last to wake up as she eyed around the ship.

“Is it breakfast time already?” Pinkie asked.

“I don’t think so,” Fluttershy sighed.

“C’mon girls,” Twilight beckoned. “We’d better be ready when we land.”

<> 

The X-wing and the Republic Starship continued their flight through the twilight just above the cloud-covered planet. Luke saw the cloud race by as he took his craft closer to the planet. He knew he needed to operate his controls carefully since the cloud cover completely obscured his vision. The same had to be said on Storm’s part, as he once more assumed the controls of his ship while the remainder of the group looked on.

“You sure pick the most dreary places to meet with old acquaintances,” Rarity observed.

“Wasn’t my idea,” Storm shrugged. “But given this planet’s among the last places to find a master Jedi, it’s no wonder he’d want to make a home here.”

“When we do meet this master of yours, how will we know it’s him?” Spike asked curiously.

“He won’t be difficult to recognize I’ll say that much. Let’s just say he’s very unique, as he is famous.”

“And how much longer is it going to take to land?” Rainbow complained.

“We are pretty high Rainbow,” Twilight pointed out. “But we have to be very careful. I don’t like the look of these clouds.”

Suddenly, alarms started to buzz in the background. The group looked down toward the control panel to a flashing red light. Fluttershy’s eyes went wide with fright.

“That’s not good…” Fluttershy whimpered.

In Luke’s ships, R2 beeped and whistled frantically.

“I know, I know!” Luke answered, via commlink. “All the scopes are dead. I can’t see a thing! Just hang on, I’m going to start the landing cycle…”

“Right behind you Luke!” Storm called out.

The blast of the retrorockets were deafening, drowning out R2’s electronic squeals and the screams from some of the girls. Suddenly, there’s a cracking sound as if limbs were broken off trees and then a tremendous jolt as the spacecrafts came to a halt. Luke pulled a switch and his canopy popped open.

The mist-shrouded X-wing fighter was almost invisible in the thick fog. Luke climbed out onto the long nose of the spacecraft as R2 popped out his cubbyhole on the back. The young warrior surveyed the fog, which was barely pierced by the ship’s landing lights. About all he could make out are some giant, twisted trees nearby. Luke took notice of Storm bringing his ship down into the midst of the clearing of trees. He just managed to bring it down along the bank of the swamp, as the rear cargo hatched opened allowing the girls and Spike to exit. Eventually, with the ship shut down, Storm Shield was the last to emerge.

“Boy this place gives me the creeps,” Spike replied, looking around.

“I hear ya,” Applejack nodded in agreement.

From Luke’s ship, R2 whistled anxiously.

“No R2, you stay put,” Luke informed. “We’ll have a look around.”

“Probably for the best we scout around,” Twilight agreed. “We have no idea what’s on this planet.”

“Unless… you wouldn’t happen to have some crazy stories you have to share about this place, Stormy?” Pinkie asked hopefully.

“I wouldn’t know… this is my first time coming here too,” Storm replied.

“’First’ time?” Fluttershy repeated. “Oh boy…”

R2 let out a short beep. As Luke moved along the nose, R2 lost his balance and disappeared with a splash into the boggy lake.

“R2?” Luke asked.

The group turned to the side, just as Luke knelt and leaned over the plane looking for R2. But the water was still revealing no sign or trace of the little droid.

“What happened?!” Rainbow called out.

“R2 fell in!” Luke shouted, peering down. “R2! Where are you?”

“R2!!!” The group called out.

Just then, a small periscope broke the surface of the water, and a gurgling beep was heard. The periscope started moving toward shore. The group sighed with relief, while others rolled their eyes with a shake of their head. Luke, in particular, started running along the nose of the fighter to its tip.

“R2! You be more careful,” Luke spoke, annoyed.

“And I’d get out of there little buddy,” Storm advised. “This isn’t the kind of place you’d want to take a swim in.”

Fortunately, the outline of the shore was only ten feet away. Luke jumped off the plane, into the water and scrambled to shore. The rest of the group followed suit as they kept watch over R2. The periscope still steadily moved toward shore/

“R2!” Fluttershy called out, pointing. “It’s that way.”

Suddenly, through the thick fog layer, a dark shape appeared, moving toward the little droid. Spike turned his head for a second and spotted the dark, sinuous bog beast diving beneath the swampy water.

“Uh… Twilight…” Spike spoke worriedly.

“What is it Spike?” Twilight asked.

She looked toward Spike, who shakenly pointed toward the water. Twilight turned toward where R2 was just nearing the shore. Suddenly, something made a loud clunking noise against R2’s metal hull. The droid disappeared from sight, uttering a pathetic electronic scream.

“R2!!!” Twilight shouted.

Holding their ignited lightsabers, Luke waded a few feet into the murky pool while Storm Shield stood by the edge with his saber pike aimed at the water. The rest of the group gazed their eyes for any sign of their little friend.

“R2!” Luke called out.

“Where is he?” Fluttershy asked worriedly. 

“A sea monster ate our Droid!” Spike panicked. “A sea monster ate our Droid!”

“Oh, not if I can help it!” Rainbow frowned, removing her shoes.

“Rainbow, hold up!” Storm shouted. “Don’t jump into the—”

*SPLASH!*

The water broke as Rainbow Dash’s form dove into the water and vanished deep into the murky depths. The rest of the group stared with horror as the water started to settle until all was still.

“—the water,” Storm finished.

“Oh, Rainbow…” Applejack moaned, looking around.

They kept a cautious watch over the black surface, which was as still as death itself… until a few bubbles began to appear.

*PHHEEWAAT!!!*

“YAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!” 

The runt-size robot and a screaming rainbow-haired teen shot out of the water, made a graceful arc, and crashed along a patch of soft gray moss.

“Oh no!” Twilight gasped.

The group quickly raced toward their friends, Applejack quickly skidding to her knees and lifted Rainbow Dash onto her lap as the girl spat swamp water out of her throat.

“Rainbow, are y’all all right?” Applejack asked.

“Don’t… go in… the water…” Rainbow gasped.

“You’re lucky you don’t taste very good,” Luke replied. “Anything broken?”

Luke helped R2 to his feet and began wiping the mud and roots from his round metal body. R2 responded with feeble, soggy beeps.

“If you’re saying coming here was a bad idea, I’m beginning to agree with you,” Luke sighed. “Oh guys, what are we doing here?”

“At this point, I don’t even know anymore,” Twilight answered. “We barely escape one planet trying to escape a posing threat out to kill us. Now we find ourselves in another place where everything’s likely to kill us.”

“You mean like Australia?” Pinkie asked innocently.

“Yeah… let’s go with that,” Twilight sighed.

Luke Skywalker looked around this unfamiliar landscape trying to make sense of their location.

“It’s like… something out of a dream or… I don’t know. Maybe I’m just going crazy.”

“All I know is this Master Yoda guy better make this trip worthwhile,” Rainbow muttered.

“Of course he is,” Storm Shield reassured. “If we stand even the slightest chance of turning the war in our favor, we just have to find Yoda. Otherwise we’ve come all this way for nothing.”

“Then that does beg the question darling,” Rarity spoke up. “Where do we go to find him?”

The group glanced around the spooky jungle swamp surrounding them, while R2 ejected a stream of muddy water from one of his cranial ports. Spike looked down where the water shot out and turned back toward the droid with a slight glance.

“Nice…”

<> 

In the meantime, an Imperial shuttle flew quickly through vast space until arriving at the transport hangar of the Devastator. Coming down for a soft landing, inside Darth Vader’s personal Star Destroyer, the rear hatch of the shuttle opened up allowing Darth Seraphina and her dark syndicate to emerge. Many of them were banged up from the battle on Hoth, all of whom extremely upset.

“Those pitiful rebel scum!” Grievous growled angrily. “Like parasites they infest this galaxy and flee like cowards!”

“If I haven’t said it enough already, I hate those pathetic creatures!” The Fourth Sister seethed.

“Worry not my sister,” The Fifth Sister assured. “There’s only so many places they can hide. Soon enough, we will wipe the Rebels off the face of the galaxy.”

Just then, an Imperial soldier raced toward the entourage with an urgent message.

“Lady Seraphina,” He spoke. “Lord Vader requires your presence in his personal chambers immediately.”

Darth Seraphina gave no response, only nodding her head in understanding. While the rest made way toward the other parts of the ship, Seraphina stalked slowly through the halls toward Vader’s personal chambers. Coming up toward the desired location, she noticed Admiral Piett waiting in the entryway to Vader’s private cubical. Seeing the Sith lady approaching quickly, Piett stood at immediate attention.

“Lady Seraphina,” He acknowledged, in respect.

“At ease Admiral.”

“Yes, my lady.”

Piett relaxed his demeanor as they both entered the chambers. Darth Vader, his back turned, was silhouetted in the gloom on the far side of the chamber. A black, insect-like droid attended him. Among the various apparatuses surrounding them, a respirator tube now retracted from Vader’s uncovered head. The head was bald, with a mass of ugly scar tissue covering it. The black droid lowered the mask and helmet onto Vader’s head. When in place, the Dark Lord turned to face Piett and Seraphina.

“Yes, Admiral?” Vader spoke.

“Our ships have sighted the Millennium Falcon, lord,” Piett informed. “But… it has entered an asteroid field and we cannot risk…”

“Asteroids do not concern me, Admiral,” Vader interrupted. “I want that ship and not excuses.”

“Yes, lord.”

Piett departed from the chamber to execute the dark lord’s plans. When he was completely out of sight, Vader turned to his fellow Sith Lord.

“We have succeeded in securing the planet Hoth for the empire,” He informed her.

“How lovely for you,” Seraphina snipped. “Yet here I stand without the blood of Twilight Sparkle coating my lightsaber.”

“If I were you, I’d alter your attitude Seraphina,” Vader warned. “You may be the Emperor’s Fury, but do not forget I am his Hand. That means in his absence, you take orders from me. Never forget your place.”

Serphina was set with fury and anger, contemplating slicing that respirator off Vader’s body. However, she knew that was impossible for a few reasons. First, Vader far exceeded her in ability and power. Second, the Emperor would most likely kill her if she impeded his plans of conquest. Finally, she actually needed Vader in hopes of exacting her revenge. She drew a deep breath and steadied her emotions.

“My apologies Lord Vader,” She said. “I long for my revenge on Twilight Sparkle. Now that she and the others have escaped, I fear how long I must wait.”

“A Sith fears nothing.”

“Of course,” Seraphina groaned. “Now, what is it you called me for?”

“The Emperor has requested our present to update him on our progression,” Vader explained.

“Lead the way.”

Vader slowly made way from the chamber with Seraphina following closely behind.

<> 

Later, the pirate starship rested in a dark, dripping asteroid cave. It was so dark the cave’s exact dimensions are impossible to determine. Han and Chewie busily shut down the engine and all electronic systems. 3PO and Leia watched worriedly, while Starkiller was hardly paying attention. Instead, he casually leaned along the wall looking at the ceiling with his arms crossed.

“I’m going to shut down everything but the emergency power systems,” Han informed.

“Sir, I’m almost afraid to ask, but…” 3PO spoke up, nervously. “Does that include shutting me down, too?”

“Is that a trick question?” Starkiller replied.

Chewie barked ‘yes’, but Han thought otherwise.

“No, I need you to talk to the Falcon,” Han instructed. “Find out what’s wrong with the hyperdrive.”

Suddenly, the ship lurched, causing all the loose items in the cockpit to go flying. Chewie howled, while Starkiller looked around.

“Sir, it’s quite possible this asteroid is not entirely stable,” 3PO pointed out.

“Not entirely stable?” Starkiller repeated. “Glad you’re here to tell us these things.”

“You… be quiet,” Han warned, turning to Chewbacca. “Chewie, take the professor in the back and plug him into the hyperdrive.”

“Oh! Sometimes I just don’t understand human behavior,” 3PO muttered. “After all, I’m only trying to do my job in the most…”

The sliding door sealed behind the indignant 3PO, as Chewie moved him back to the hold. Suddenly, the ship lurched again, throwing Leia across the cabin into Han’s arms. Then abruptly, the motion stopped as suddenly as it started. With some surprise, Han and Leia realized they are in each other’s arms.

“Let go,” Leia ordered.

“Shh!” Han hushed.

“Let go, please.”

Starkiller briefly turned toward the pair, he can see the princess’s face flushed. And she’s not exactly fighting to get free. Still, the young man can see that Han was blowing whatever plan he had in mind.

“Don’t get excited,” Han spoke.

The anger rose in Leia just as quickly.

“Captain, being held by you isn’t quite enough to get me excited,” Leia retorted.

“Sorry, sweetheart. We haven’t got time for anything else.”

Han grinned wickedly at Leia as he turned and left through the door. Leia’s confused emotion showed clearly on her lovely face. But that changed when she saw Starkiller, the young man standing by staring the whole time.

“What’re you looking at?” Leia asked, annoyed.

But it was difficult to read what Starkiller was thinking. He just looked at them with a very blank, emotionless expression. Whatever thoughts coursed through his head he was not giving them away so easily.

“… Nothing,” Starkiller answered, simply.

And just like that, Starkiller turned away and strolled away from the cockpit. Leia eyed Starkiller with a look of suspicion and yet for some reason she suddenly can’t help but feel… sympathy for the young man. 

<> 

The mist dispersed slightly, but still leaving a very gloomy-looking swamp. Luke pulled an equipment box from the shore to the clearing. He ignited a little fusion furnace and warmed his hands before it. Taking a power cable, he plugged it into R2’s nose-like socket.

“Ready for some power?” Luke asked R2. “Okay. Let’s see now. Put that in there. There you go.”

The droid whistled his appreciation. Meanwhile, Rarity frantically tried to scrub the murky water and mud off Rainbow’s face much to the latter’s annoyance.

“I can’t believe you’d risk jumping into that muck with who knows what swimming in there?” Rarity complained. “Actually, I take that back… I canbelieve it! Urgh, you know Dash, there comes a time and place when you can stand for careful planning.”

“Careful… planning…” Rainbow Dash raised a brow. “Do you even know me?”

Rarity groaned, as she kept scrubbing Rainbow’s face clean. Luke soon opened a container of processed food and sat before the thermal heater.

“Now all we have to do is find this Yoda… if he even exists.”

“Oh, he exists all right,” Storm replied. “The force wouldn’t go through all this trouble just to have us come here.”

“Has this ‘force’ ever been wrong before?” Twilight asked, curiously.

“Not to my knowledge.”

The group looked around nervously before the foreboding jungle.

“Still… there’s something familiar about this place,” Luke spoke up.

“What do you mean, Luke?” Fluttershy asked.

“I feel like… I don’t know…”

“Feel like what?”

The group jumped out of their skin, R2 and Fluttershy screeched in terror. Storm and Luke grabbed their lightsabers and spun around, looking for the creature. Mysteriously, standing right before the team was a strange, bluish creature (Possibly greenish), no more than two feet tall. A wizened little creature dressed in rags, motioning toward Luke’s sword.

“Like we’re being watched!” Luke finished.

“Wut in tarnation?!” Applejack gasped.

“Back off, slimy mutant!” Rainbow threatened, on guard.

“Away with your weapon!” The creature begged. “I mean you no harm.”

After some hesitation, Luke put away his weapon, though he really didn’t understand why. R2 watched with interest, while Storm’s expression immediately settled down which caught Twilight’s curious attention.

“I am wondering, why are you here?” The creature asked.

“We’re looking for someone sir,” Twilight spoke up.

“Looking? Found someone, you have, I would say, hmmm?”

The little creature gave out a laugh, while Luke tried hard to keep from smiling.

“Right…” Luke replied.

“Excuse my friend, mister,” Fluttershy spoke up kindly. “What Twilight means to say is… there’s someone in this strange place we’re supposed to meet. We were just wondering, since you must know this place better than we do, could you help us find him? If you’re not too busy that is.”

“Help you I can,” The creature nodded. “Yes, mmm…”

“I don’t know about this Flutters,” Rainbow replied uncertainly. “We’re asking him to help find a great warrior.”

“Ahh! A great warrior,” The creature chuckled, shaking his head. “Wars not make one great.”

“I see your point,” Twilight understood. “But it’s very important we see him right away.”

With the aid of a walking stick, the tiny stranger moved over to one of the cases of supplies. He began rummaging around. R2 moved to the edge of the case—standing almost eye level to the creature who is carelessly handling the supplies—squeaking his disapproval. Their tiny visitor picked up the container of food Luke ate from and took a bite.

“Put that down,” Luke ordered annoyed. “Hey! That’s my dinner!”

The creature spat out the bite he took, making a face.

“How you get so big, eating food of this kind?” The creature asked.

“I’ll have you know good sir we’re not fond of processed food ourselves,” Rarity replied. “Besides, we’re mostly vegetarian and we turned out just fine.” 

The creature flipped the container in Luke’s direction, reaching into one of Luke’s supply cases. 

“Listen, friend, we didn’t mean to land in that puddle,” Luke spoke. “And if we could get our ship out, we would, but we can’t, so why don’t you just…”

“Aww, cannot get your ship out?” The creature teased.

The creature spotted something of interest in Luke’s case. Luke lost patience and grabbed the case away. The creature retained his prize—a tiny power lamp—and examined it with delight.

“Hey, you could have broken this!” Luke argued. “Don’t do that. Oh… you’re making a mess. Hey, give me that!”

“Mine!” The creature shouted, retreating with the lamp. “Or I will help you not.”

Clutching its treasure, the creature backed away from the group, drawing closer to R2. As Luke and the creature argued, one of R2’s little arms slowly moved toward the power lamp, completely unnoticed by the creature.

“We don’t want your help,” Luke argued. “I want my lamp back. I’ll need it to get out of this slimy mudhole.”

“Mudhole? Slimy?” The creature repeated. ‘My home this is.”

“And I’m sure it’s a, um… ‘lovely’ home,” Fluttershy assured, kindly.

“Not the word I’d use,” Rainbow muttered. 

R2 grabbed hold of the lamp and the two little figured immediately engaged in a tug-of-war over it. R2 beeped a few angry, ‘Give me that’s.

“Ah, ah, ah!” The creature cried out, whacking the droid.

“R2, just let him have it!” Luke groaned.

“Ooh, that looks like fun!” Pinkie squealed.

She too reached for the Power Lamp and tugged on it. The creature, annoyed, took his walking stick and whacked the opposing pair.

“Mine! Mine!” The creature shouted.

“Pinkie Pie!” Twilight groaned. 

“Mine!” The creature shouted.

“No mine!” Pinkie shouted.

The creature let go with one hand and poked R2 lightly with one finger. R2 reacted with a startled squeal and let go. Pinkie Pie released her own grip as well.

“Mine!” The creature declared.

“Now will you move along, little fella?” Luke demanded, fed up. “We’ve got a lot of work to do.”

“No! No, no!” The creature chuckled. “Stay and help you, I will. Find your friend, hmm?”

“Honestly, I wouldn’t reckon he’s any friend of ours,” Applejack answered honestly. “He’s supposed to be some Jedi Master.”

“Oh… Jedi Master,” The creature nodded. “Yoda. You seek Yoda.”

“Wait! You know him?” Spike asked.

“Mm… take you to him, I will,” The creature declared, chuckling. “Yes, yes. But now, we must eat. Come… good food… come.”

With that, the creature scurried out of the clearing, laughing merrily. Twilight turned toward Storm, realizing he’s been quiet the whole time.

“What’s the matter Storm?” Twilight asked. “You haven’t spoken a word since he showed up.”

“It can’t be…” Storm spoke quietly.

Then to Twilight’s confusion, Storm raced off after the creature in the dark. 

“Hey Storm! Where you going?” Twilight called out.

Twilight and the girls, along with Spike, immediately followed Storm while Luke stared after them. All he could see was the faint light from the small power lamp moving through the fog. Luke made his decision to start after the creature, knowing the group are with him.

“Come, come!” The creature called in the distance.

R2, very upset, whistled a blue streak of protest.

“Stay here and watch after the camp, R2,” Luke instructed.

R2 beeped ever more frantically. But as Luke disappeared from view, the worried little droid grew quieter, and uttered a soft electronic sigh.

<> 

While Luke was catching up to the others, Storm and the girls quickly raced through the swamp. The group stayed close to Storm, watching his tracks as he carefully crossed through the murky path. Eventually, Storm reached the spot where he saw the little creature sitting casually along a tree branch.

“Keeping to yourself, are you?” The creature smirked. “Something you like to share, you must.”

“Forgive my silence,” Storm bowed. “It’s just really great to see you again, master.”

“MASTER?!?!” The group shouted.

“SHH!!!” Storm hushed, looking around.

Storm seemed to be making sure that Luke wasn’t close by or anyone else in particular.

“You mean to tell us this little guy’s supposed to be the fabled Master Yoda?” Rainbow whispered harshly.

“A fable, I am not,” Yoda smirked. “Looks deceive you so and not very good habit, think not. Hmm?”

“But I don’t understand,” Twilight spoke, confused. “How come you didn’t say who you were before?”

“Asked not,” Yoda smiled.

“And… he said he wanted to see your reaction for himself,” Storm shrugged.

“What about Luke?” Spike asked. “When are we going to tell him the big secret.”

“Wait and see, we shall,” Yoda advised. “See what happens, we will.”

“Believe me when I say this,” Storm reassured. “If years of training have taught me anything, it’s that you ‘never’ question Master Yoda. He has his reasons.”

The group looked toward each other, with a look of uncertainty. But if Master Yoda had a plan in mind that involved Luke and considering they needed his help with certain matters to fix, they decided not to question either of their judgments. And not a moment too soon, as they could see Luke Skywalker’s figure slowly making his way to them.

<> 

Back in the Millennium Falcon, 3PO whistled and beeped a strange dialect into the control panel in front of him. The control panel whistled back a few mystifying beeps.

“Oh, where is R2 when I need him?” 3PO muttered.

Han entered the hold area, kneeling along the floor near the control box.

“Sir, I don’t know where your learned to communicate,” 3PO spoke up. “But it has the most peculiar dialect. I believe, sir, it says that the power coupling on the negative axis has been polarized. I’m afraid you’ll have to replace it.”

“Well, of course I’ll have to replace it,” Han remarked.

He handed a wire coil toward Chewie, who was working near the ceiling.

“Here! And Chewie…”

Chewie brought his head back through the trap door in the ceiling and whined. Han glanced back at 3PO, then spoke quietly so only Chewie can hear.

“… I think we’re better replace the negative power coupling,” Han continued silently.

Leia finished welding the valves she has been working on and attempted to reengage the system by pulling a lever attached to the valve. It doesn’t budge. Han noticed her struggled and moved to help her. She rebuffed him.

“Hey, Your Worship,” Han argued. “I’m only trying to help.”

“Would you please stop calling me that?” Leia retorted, struggling.

But Han heard a new tone in her voice. He watched her pull on the lever.

“Sure, Leia.”

“Oh, you make it so difficult sometimes,” Leia groaned.

“I do, I really do,” Han replied, watching her. “You could be a little nicer, though. Come on, admit it. Sometimes you think I’m all right.”

She released the lever, rubbing her sore hand.

“Occasionally…” Leia admitted, slightly smiling. “… when you aren’t acting like a scoundrel.”

“Scoundrel?” Han chuckled. “Scoundrel? I like the sound of that.”

With that, Han took her hand and started massaging it.

“Stop that,” Leia snipped.

“Stop what?” Han asked.

“Stop ‘that’!” Leia flushed, confused. “My hands are dirty.”

“My hands are dirty, too. What are you afraid of?”

“Afraid?” Leia remarked, looking in his eyes.

Han looked at her with a piercing look. He’s never looked more handsome, more dashing, more confident. He reached out slowly and took Leia’s hand again from where it’s resting on a console. He drew it toward him.

“You’re trembling,” Han observed.

“I’m not trembling,” Leia replied.

Then, with an irresistible combination of physical strength and emotional power, the space pirate drew Leia toward him… very slowly.

“You like me because I’m a scoundrel,” Han replied. “There aren’t enough scoundrels in your life.”

Leia was now very close to Han. As she spoke, her voice became an excited whisper, a tone completely in opposition to her words.

“I happen to like nice men.”

“I’m a nice man.”

“No, you’re not. You’re…”

He kissed her now, with slow, hot lips. He took his time, as though he had forever, bending her body backward. She has never been kissed like this before; it almost made her faint. When he stopped, she regained her breath and tried to work up some indignation. Only to find it difficult to talk. Suddenly, Starkiller appeared in the doorway.

“3PO asked to inform you he’s isolated the reverse power flux coupling,” Starkiller informed.

Han turned slowly, icily, from their embrace.

“Thank you…” Han muttered. “Thank you very much.”

“You’re perfectly welcome,” Starkiller nodded.

The moment was officially spoiled. Han marched out past Starkiller, who turned and walked down another hallway leaving Princess Leia alone. When Starkiller was a good distance away, he released a sigh and clutched his chest, near his heart. A single tear threatened to escape his left eye, which he struggled to fight back.

“Sunset…” Starkiller spoke.
> Jedi Training
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Imperial fleet moves through the asteroid-filled void, intently seeking its prey. After the battle of Hoth, that had taken command of the rebel base and killed many of the scum littering the planet. However, a few of their targets managed to escape into the recesses of space. Asteroids collide, creating a fireworks display outside the bridge window of Darth Vader’s Star Destroyer. Darth Vader and Darth Seraphina both stand, staring out the window above the control deck. Slowly they turn toward the bridge.

Before them are the hologram images of twenty battleship commanders. One of these images, the commander of a ship that has just exploded, faded away quickly. Another image, in the center and a little apart from the others, faded and was continually disrupted by static. The image of Captain Needa, commander of the Star Destroyer mostly hotly on the tail of the Millennium Falcon. Admiral Piette and an aide stand behind the Dark Lords.

“… And that, Lord Vader, was the last time they appeared in any of our scopes,” Needa informed, through the hologram. “Considering the among of damage we’ve sustained they must have been destroyed.”

“No Captain, they’re alive,” Vader insisted. “I want every ship available to sweep the asteroid field until they are found.”

“I do not care how ships must be spared or how many men you lose,” Seraphina growled. “I want Twilight Sparkle and those rebel scum found immediately!”

The Imperial star captains fade out one by one as Vader faced Admiral Piett.

“Lord Vader,” Piett spoke.

“Yes, Admiral, what is it?” Vader asked, impatiently.

The admiral was scared, his face white as a sheet.

“The Emperor commands you make contact with him,” Piett spoke meekly.

“Move the ship out of the asteroid field so that we can send a clear transmission,” Vader demanded.

“Yes, my lord,” Piett bowed.

Vader turned his attention to Seraphina shortly after.

“We best not keep our master waiting,” He said.

“Lead the way,” Seraphina responded.

<> 

Vader’s Imperial Star Destroyer moved against the vast sea of stars away from the rest of the fleet. Vader entered his personal chambers followed closely by Seraphina. Both Sith Lords made their way to the center of the room where Vader and Seraphina knelt onto a strange device. A strong sound entered the room, as a light began to pan across Vader’s black figure. A twelve-foot hologram of the Emperor Palpatine materialized before the two Sith. 

“What is thy bidding, my master?” Vader asked.

“There is a great disturbance in the Force,” The Emperor informed.

“I have felt it.”

“I can feel it coursing through my very veins master,” Seraphina added.

“We have a new enemy,” The Emperor informed. “Luke Skywalker.”

“Yes, my master,” Vader confirmed.

“He could destroy us.”

“He certainly possesses great skills my master,” Seraphina agreed. “Though I hardly qualify him as a ‘threat’.”

“He’s just a boy,” Vader added. “Obi-Wan can no longer help him.”

“The Force is strong with him,” The Emperor reminded. “The son of Skywalker must not become a Jedi.”

“May I suggest something other than killing him,” Seraphina requested.

“You may…” The Emperor approved.

“What if we could sway him to our side? Add a new name amongst the Sith?”

“If he could be turned, he would become a powerful ally,” Vader added.

“Yes… yes…” The Emperor nodded. “He would be a great asset. Can it be done?”

“Whether be by his own will or through the force, we can assure his cooperation one way or another,” Seraphina spoke.

“He will join us or die, my master,” Vader concluded.

Palpatine bowed his head slightly before his image slowly faded away. Rising back to their feet, Seraphina and Vader both faced each other with the same intention in mind.

“Gather your followers and converge with me on the main deck,” Vader ordered. “It is time we take the fight to the rebels through an entirely new approach.”

Seraphina gave no response, but merely nodded. Vader slowly made his way from the room, leaving Seraphina along for the time being. Before she left, she took a moment to assort through the myriad of thoughts coursing through her mind. So close she had been today to ending the miserable existence of Twilight Sparkle. Had it not been for that traitorous ‘Galen Marek’, she’d have landed the killing blow and her revenge would finally be complete. She now wished she had run straight through him with her lightsaber and finished him off when she had the chance.

Then another thought swept through her head, something completely bewildering to her. A thought of how when she finally saw him again, she remembers how much she… missed him. 

“Why am I thinking that?” Seraphina thought to herself. “He’s a traitor; a plague on the whole galaxy. Why should I miss him dearly? Wishing to be held in his arms again… to be—ENOUGH!!!”

She shook her head angrily, tossing those thoughts away. She hoped they had died long ago when she casted her former self aside and became who she was today. Perhaps a hint of who she once was still lingered on… but how?

<> 

Deep within the confines of her psyche, Sunset was more at odds with herself than ever. As she continued to follow Vitiate through the dark chasm leading to Celestia knows where. She couldn’t stop thinking over what she’s seen so far. Everything she had learned from Master Satele rang in her ears, but so too did Vitiate’s. She knew the Sith were a corrupt system of fanatics that followed a set of unrealistic morals, but so too did the Jedi. Even their separate codes ran through her head sounding so familiar yet different from one another.

Emotion, yet peace.
Ignorance, yet knowledge.
Passion, yet serenity.
Chaos, yet harmony.
Death, yet the Force

Peace is a lie, there is only a passion.
Through passion, strength.
Through strength, knowledge.
Through knowledge, victory.
Through victory, our chains are broken.
The force shall free us.

“We are here…”

Hearing Vitiate’s voice cut through Sunset’s thoughts, the young teen looked up and saw that she and the immortal emperor now stood in the completely reassembled chamber of the Dark Council. Once again, the images before her were completely frozen. She saw an assortment of different Sith Lords sitting at their seats that governed one of the pyramids of power in the order.

“Behold… my Dark Council,” Vitiate gestured. “Once they served as my body, voice, and mind. Now the seats of power are filled with corrupt politicians and their twisted ideals. Not unlike those of the Jedi Council.”

“However that may be, I believe the Jedi do what they must to ensure everlasting peace in the galaxy,” Sunset countered. “Unlike the Sith, who wish only for chaos and control of the galaxy.”

Vitiate chuckled, hearing the girl utter such words to him. Oh, how little of the world she truly knew.

“You still cling to the belief the galaxy is simply divided between light and dark. What you fail to realize is there’s truly no ‘good’ and ‘evil’ contained within existence. In the end, all that remains is power and those brave enough to seek it.”

Sunset’s eyes widened as she looked toward the immortal Sith. Those were practically similar to the ones she heard Lord Voldemort speak all that time ago at Hogwarts. Sunset quickly regained ahold of reality, returning to the matter at hand.

“The Jedi do good things while the Sith mainly do the bad,” Sunset countered. “You can’t tell me that doesn’t showcase good and evil.”

“Poor foolish child,” Vitiate chuckled. “You pass judgment on deeds you deem appalling without even contemplating if the end justifies the means. The galaxy is filled with deception and lies. Does that not make all life in the galaxy dark?”

Vitiate gestured once more to his Dark Council. 

“I formed the council to uphold the principles and standards of the Sith Order. As time passed, many members were destroyed through greed and ambition till the Council was as corrupt as the dark side itself.”

Vitiate then made his way to the center of the chamber, standing at the precipice of his power.

“You destroyed many lives with such twisted, dark power,” Sunset spoke up. “You claim there’s no light and dark, but you sought to destroy every living thing within the universe so long ago.”

“You discern only a fraction of the reality my dear,” Vitiate responded. “Beyond the stars lay other galaxies, other worlds, other beings. I sought only to explore or ignore them as I saw fit. To spend an eternity becoming everything from a farmer, an artist, a simple man. Then when the last living thing in the universe dies, I would enjoy peace as I wait for the cycle to begin again.”

Sunset slowly walked toward the middle of the chamber. Looking amongst the frozen hall, she could feel immense power calling to her.

“I can show you the means to explore infinite worlds, along with the knowledge and ability to shape your destiny into any image,” Vitiate tempted. “All you must do is allow yourself to embrace the truth. Accept that the reality of the world goes far beyond light and dark.”

Sunset looks down for a moment, contemplating the former emperor’s words. It was tempting to say the least to be able to travel between infinite realms and be whatever she wanted to be.

“That… does sound like a great idea,” She said.

Unbeknownst to Vitiate, Sunset slowly reached behind her back and grabbed the hilt of her lightsaber.

“There’s just one problem… I’m not buying it!”

She quickly ignited the blade and swung but Vitiate disappeared in a cloud of black smoke. His sick, twisted laughter echoed off the walls of the chamber as he reappeared behind Sunset. The girl quickly turned, ready to fight.

“You truly believe you can stop me?” Vitiate mocked. “My life spans millennia. Legions have risen to test me; what makes you any different?”

Though Sunset was certainly scared, she refused to back down. No more games, no more tricks, and no more lies. It was time for her to step up and fight for her freedom. For she can feel that time was not on her side.

<> 

A heavy downpour of rain pounded through the gnarled trees. A strange baroque mud house sat along a moss-covered knoll on the edge of a small lagoon. The small, gnomish structure radiated a warm glow from its thick glass windows. As rain tap-danced a merry tune on R2’s head, the stubby little droid rose up on his tip toes to peek through one of the glowing portals.

R2, peeking in the window, cold see the inside of the house: Very plain, but a cozy dwelling. Everything was small in scale as the creature itself. The only thing out of place in the miniature room were Luke and the Equestrian Heroes, whose height makes the four-foot ceiling seem even lower. Most of the group practically sat cross-legged on the living room floor, praying their legs won’t fall asleep. A good thing for Spike being small enough so the space did not bother him so, even though he mostly sat on Storm’s lap.

Yoda, in an adjoining area (his little kitchen), cooked up an incredible meal. The stove was a steaming hodgepodge of pots and pans. The wizened little host scurried about chopping this, shredding that, and showering everything with exotic herbs and spices. He rushed back and forth putting platters on the table before Luke, who watched the creature impatiently. The girls looked toward their bowls but due to being uncertain as to whether they could eat the food, they just looked at their bowls curiously.

“Not eating, are you?” Yoda inquired curiously.

“I’m sure it’s rather delicious,” Rarity assured, kindly. “But we did have a big meal before we left Hoth.”

“I just don’t understand why we can’t see Yoda now,” Luke whined.

“Patience!” Yoda advised. “For the Jedi, it is time to eat as well. Eat, eat. Hot. Good food, hm? Good, hmm?”

Moving with some difficulty in the cramped quarters, Luke sat down near the fire and served himself from the pot. Tasting the unfamiliar concoction he was pleasantly surprised. Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie eyed the creature with a look of curiosity. 

“You know, I can’t help but feel there’s something very familiar about you,” Pinkie inquired curiously. “You wouldn’t happen to be related to this cute, furry little blue monster who’s multi-talented, takes up many different occupations, and loves helping people but turns out to be very bad at it? I only ask because you have this very distinctive vocal patter that’s practically similar.”

“Familiar, heard not,” The creature smiled. “A very charming fellow, I believe. Hmm?”

“Hee-hee, yeah… I guess you’re right,” Pinkie smiled.

“Pinkie Pie, who’re you talking about?” Spike asked.

“Nobody important.”

“How far away is Yoda?” Luke asked curiously. “Will it take us long to get there?”

“Well—” Fluttershy began innocently.

“Mm-mmm…” Storm shook.

“Not far…” Yoda replied. “Yoda not far. Patience. Soon you will be with him.”

Deciding not to question any further, Fluttershy decided to taste the stew the creature prepared. Her eyes widen as she realizes that the dish actually tastes good. Though a bit of a mushy mess, there was a mouthful of vegetables with each bite along with all the spices.

“Say… this is actually very good,” Fluttershy smiled. “What do you call this stew?”

“Root leaf, I cook,” Yoda replied. “Why wish you become Jedi? Hm?”

“Because being a Jedi with our own lightsabers actually sounds pretty awesome,” Rainbow Dash smirked. “We’d have more action than even Twilight’s own guards at her castle.”

“Rainbow, I don’t have guards at my castle,” Twilight frowned.

“Exactly!”

“It would help tah keep from runnin’ around like chickens with their heads off,” Applejack admitted, honestly.

Fluttershy’s eyes widened at the very mention of those words. Applejack’s cheeks blushed, as she folded her Stetson hat over her eyes.

“Not that we actually do nothin’ to the chickens…”

“You know, Luke actually wants to be a Jedi himself,” Storm Shield spoke up, changing the subject.

“Mostly because of my father,” Luke admitted.

“Ah, your father,” The creature nodded. “Powerful Jedi was he, powerful Jedi, mmm.”

“Well, that’s the story we heard,” Twilight shrugged. “Otherwise, we really don’t know anything more about him.”

“You have no idea…” Storm thought, to himself.

“Oh, come on!” Luke snapped angrily. “How could you know my father? You don’t even know who I am.”

“Luke, calm down!” Storm spoke aloud. “We’re just sharing a polite conversation with our ‘host’, who’s agreed to let us stay here.”

“I don’t even know what I’m doing here!” Luke complained. “We’re wasting our time!”

“C’mon Luke!” Pinkie begged. “You’re starting to act like a real party pooper!”

“Yeah… besides I thought Twilight was going to snap before you did,” Rainbow added.

“What is that supposed to mean?!” Twilight frowned.

The Jedi Master turned away from Luke, as Storm turned toward the little creature.

“I’m sorry about Luke,” Storm assured. “He didn’t mean it…”

“I cannot teach him,” He spoke, irritated. “The boy has no patience.”

Luke’s head spun in the direction of the creature’s face, to see whose the third party he’s speaking to. But for some strange reason, there’s no one there. To say the boy was bewildered was an understatement. But gradually, it dawned on him that the little creature was Yoda, the Jedi Master, and that he is speaking to a very familiar voice.

“He will learn patience,” Ben’s voice spoke.

Hearing Ben Kenobi’s voice, the Equestrian Heroes looked around, but they couldn’t see him.

“Hmmm…” Yoda pondered. “Much anger in him, like his father.”

“Was I any different when you taught me?”

“Hah… he is not ready.”

“Yoda!” Luke realized, facing the group.

“Surprise…” Storm replied, meekly.

Shocked, Luke turned to the other girls and Spike who faced the young teen rather sheepishly.

“You knew… you knew it was him all along?” Luke confronted.

“Yeah… sorry,” Twilight apologized. “We were going to say something, but… we didn’t know when it was the right time.”

“We weren’t sure if you were ready,” Fluttershy added. “Please don’t be mad…”

“But I am ready!” Luek insisted. “I… Ben! I can be a Jedi. Ben, tell him I’m ready.”

Trying to see Ben, Luke got up only to hit his head on the low ceiling. Storm, getting up slowly, approached Luke.

“He can hear you Luke,” Storm assured. “But it’s not entirely Ben’s call right now.”

“C’mon Storm,” Rainbow spoke up. “If the kid says he’s ready, then so are we! We’ve battled many monsters and we won every time. Heck, it’s about time ‘we’ became Jedi as much as Luke should.”

“Easy Rainbow…” Applejack advised.

A grunt made the group turn their attention back toward Master Yoda, who eyed the group with more wisdom than his previous personality.

“Ready, are you?” Yoda asked. “What know you of ready? For eight hundred years have I trained Jedi. My own counsel will I keep on who is to be trained! A Jedi must have the deepest commitment, the most serious mind.”

“Well, Twilight over here always keeps to her books and stubbornly sticks to her tasks no matter what she has to do,” Spike joked.

“Oh, ha-ha-ha…” Twilight laughed sarcastically.

Yoda turns to the Invisible Ben, indicating Luke.

“This one a long time have I watched. All his life has he looked away… to the future, to the horizon. Never his mind on where he was. Hmm? What he was doing. Hmph. Adventure. Heh! Excitement. Heh!”

“What’s wrong with a little adventure and excitement?” Rainbow asked.

“A Jedi craves not these things,” Yoda turned to Rainbow. “Like the boy… you are reckless!”

Rainbow’s face stared blankly; one eye started to twitch rapidly. She tried to keep her cool with a shrug.

“Well, you don’t have to be so blunt about it,” Rainbow huffed.

Luke, on the other hand, looked down. He knew for a fact this was true.

“So were Master Kenobi and I,” Storm pointed out. “Even I wasn’t the perfect student, if you remember.”

“He is too old,” Yoda stated. “Yes, too old to begin the training.”

“Well, it’s not like he’s a teenage boy having the worst sweet sixteen of his life,” Pinkie Pie replied. “He’s probably a year or two towards his thirties… oh wait, that’s his actor!”

While Pinkie rambled, Luke detected a subtle softness in Yoda’s voice.

“But I’ve learned so much,” Luke insisted. “We all have.”

“Master Yoda, I know my friends and I are the last people you’d expect to be Jedis,” Twilight began. “We’re not expected to be perfect as Storm for example.”

“That’s kind of stretching it a bit…” Storm spoke up.

“But we’ve come all this way for help because we’re tired of running from the Empire. For whatever, we’re having trouble accessing our own gifts we had before, and we really need a means to become stronger. And there’s this friend of ours, I can’t shake the feeling that she’s out there… she’s all alone and… I really want to help her. Even if it means going back myself to atone for my mistakes.”

“Twilight…” Spike spoke up.

“A fact I know far too well…”

Suddenly, a new voice spoke up and caused the group to lift their heads with surprise. They turned toward the doorway to Yoda’s house only to find… a human man standing before them. A man with red hair, green eyes, and light skin tone. And judging by the way he was dressed; he looked the part of a Jedi Knight himself. 



“How long have you been standing—” Rarity began.

“The whole time,” He replied, facing Twilight. “You know… I’ve been alone for… a while now. Like some of you, I too was without any… ‘purpose’. All my life, I’d been in hiding from the Empire. But that is no way to live. Not for a Jedi… or a droid.”

He turned toward R2-D2, who beeped out from the open window. He then turned back toward the group.

“I remember what Cera Junda told me a long time ago,” The man recalled. “And there comes a time to say when we’re done hiding. Wouldn’t you agree… Storm Shield?”

The man and the others turned toward Storm, who looked as if he were seeing a ghost.

“Yes… very wise words indeed,” Storm replied. “She was a good teacher… Cal.”

This left the group quite surprised.

“You know him?” Luke asked.

“Oh, of course, where are my manners?” Storm realized. “This is Cal Kestis, one of the few Jedi who survived the purge that destroyed the Jedi Order. Didn’t expect to run into you here.”

“Let’s say I had a feeling that I needed to be here,” Cal replied. “And I had to see if your new friends can be trained, if the master permits it so.”

Yoda turned his piercing gaze toward Luke and the group, as though the Jedi Master’s huge eyes could somehow determine how much they’ve truly learned. After a long moment, the little Jedi turned toward where he alone saw Ben.

“Will he finish what he begins?” Yoda sighed. 

“We won’t fail you Master Yoda,” Twilight swore. “Whatever you want us to do, consider it done.”

“We’re not afraid,” Luke added.

But Master Yoda slowly turned toward them, while Storm and Cal looked away slightly.

“Oh, you will be,” Yoda warned. “You will be.”

“Take it from experience,” Cal added. “None of you have ever seen ‘real’ terror, not until you’ve faced… him.”

<> 

The Imperial fleet around Vader’s ship was surrounded by the asteroid storm. Asteroids, big and small, pelted the vast exteriors of the menacing ships. One of the smaller Imperial vessels hit a huge asteroid and exploded in a brilliant flash of light.

<> 

Meanwhile, the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon was quiet. The only light stemmed from the indicator lights on the control panel. Princess Leia sat in the pilot’s seat, running her hand across the panel. She thought of Han and the confusion he has created within her. 

Suddenly, something outside the cockpit window caught her eye. The reflection of the panel lights obscured her vision until a soft suction-like cup attached itself to the window. Leia moved closer to see what it might be. Large, yellow eyes flashed open and stared back at her. Startled, she jumped back and landed straight into Galen Marek’s arms. The man could feel her heart pounding as they heard a scurry of feet, followed by a loud screech, and in an instant the eyes are gone.

The young princess caught her breath, turned toward Marek, and pulled herself from the man’s arms. He just looked on as she raced from the cockpit.

“You’re welcome,” Marek called out.

<> 

In the holding area, the lights go bright for a second before turning off again. 3PO and Chewbacca watched as Han finished with the wiring.

“Sir if I may venture an opinion…” 3PO offered.

“I’m not really interested in your opinion, 3PO,” Han muttered.

Leia rushed into the cabin just as Han dropped the final floor panel into place.

“There’s something out there,” Leia spoke, breathless.

“Where?” Han asked.

“Outside, in the cave.”

“The princess is right,” Marek spoke, entering the area. “We’re not alone in here.”

As he spoke, there came a sharp banging on the hull. Marek kept a grip along the hilt of his lightsaber just in case. Chewie looked up and barked anxiously.

“There it is,” 3PO gasped. “Listen! Listen!”

“Shh… keep quiet,” Marek warned. “They could be the type that track by sound.”

“I’m going out there,” Han spoke.

“Are you crazy?!” Leia freaked.

“I just got this bucket back together. I’m not going to let something tear it apart.”

He and Chewie grabbed their breath masks off a rack and hurried out. Leia and Marek followed after.

“Then I’m going with you,” Leia called out.

“Ahem!” Marek cleared his throat.

The princess rolled her eyes.

“Fine… we’re going.”

“Better…” Marek spoke plainly.

“I think it might be better if I stay here and guard the ship,” 3PO suggested.

“Thank you for volunteering,” Marek replied, taking off.

No sooner was the droid left alone when another mysterious noise was heard.

“Oh no…” 3PO whimpered.

<> 

It is very dark inside the huge asteroid cave, too dark for anyone to see what’s attacking the ship. Leia stomped her foot along the cavern floor. 

“This ground sure feels strange,” Leia observed. “It doesn’t feel like rock at all.”

Han and Marek knelt along the floor, studying the ground. The two men attempted to study the outline of the cave.

“There’s an awful lot of moisture in here,” Han observed.

“I don’t like this,” Marek spoke. “I’ve got a feeling we shouldn’t be here.”

“For once kid… I agree with you.”

“That’s comforting…”

Chewie barked through his face mask, pointing toward the ship’s cockpit. A five-foot-long shape could be seen moving across the top of the Falcon. The leathery creature let out a screech as Han blasted it with a laser bolt.

“Watch out!” Han warned Leia.

The black shape tumbled off the spaceship and onto the ground in front of the creature. Another screech cried out as Marek quickly unsheathed his lightsaber and practically sliced the beast by the wing. The creature too plummeted toward the ground as Marek looked down waiting for the beast to stir. When it didn’t move, Marek turned off his lightsaber and bent toward the creature.

“Mynocks…” Marek observed. “Two meters… brown, yam-like color… black eyes… energy eater.”

“Chewie, check the rest of the ship,” Han instructed Chewbacca. “Make sure there aren’t any more attached. They’re chewing on the power cables.”

“Mynocks?” Leia questioned.

“Nasty parasites…” Marek clarified. “But a great delicacy amongst the Twi-leks.”

“Go on inside,” Han instructed. “We’ll clean them off if there are any more.”

“We’ll?” Marek raised a brow.

“Don’t get any ideas kid,” Han warned. “We’re not quite ready to go to a pub.”

Just then, a swarm of the ugly creatures swooped through the air. Leia put her arms over her head to protect herself as she raced toward the ship. Chewie shooed another Mynock away with his blaster, while Marek swiped and sliced his lightsaber toward any approaching close by. Several of the batlike creatures flapped their wings loudly against the cockpit window of the Falcon. Inside, 3PO shuddered at their presence.

“Oh! Go away! Go away! Beastly little thing. Shoo! Shoo!”

Han looked around the strange, dripping cave.

“Wait a minute…”

He unholstered his blaster and fired at the far side of the huge cave. The cavern began to shake, as the ground started to buckle. Chewie barked and moved for the ship, followed closely by Leia, Marek, and Han. The large wings of the Mynocks flapped past them as they guarded their faces and raced up the platform.

“Not a cave…” Marek muttered. “Not a cave… not a cave…”

Soon as the three humans were on board, Chewie shut the main hatch. The ship continued to shake and heave.

“All right, Chewie, let’s get out of here!” Han ordered.

The Wookiee heads for the cockpit as Han, followed by 3PO, rush to the hold are and checked the scops on the control panel. Leia hurried after.

“The Empire is still out there,” Leia warned.

“Of course they would be,” Marek retorted. “They never give up!”

“I don’t think it’s wise to…”

Han rushed past her and headed for the cockpit.

“No time to discuss this in committee,” Han interrupted.

And with that, the ship captain was gone. The main engines of the Falcon began to whine. Galen Marek raced for the cockpit, with Leia after him, bouncing around in the shaking ship.

“I am not a committee!” Leia shouted, angrily.

“No time for speeches, princess!” Marek shouted.

Han was already in the pilot’s seat pulling back on the throttle. The cave-quake has greatly diminished.

“You can’t make the jump to light-speed in this asteroid field…” Leia warned.

“Sit down, sweetheart,” Han ordered. “We’re takin off!”

As the ship began to move forward, Chewie barked. He noticed something out he window ahead. 3PO and Marek see it too.

“Look!” 3PO pointed.

“I see it…” Marek muttered.

“Suddenly, a row of jagged white stalagmites and stalactites could be seen surrounding the entrance. And as the falcon moved forward, the entrance to the cave grew ever smaller. Han pulled hard on the throttle, sending his ship surging forward.

“We’re doomed!” 3PO cried out.

“The cave is collapsing,” Leia pointed.

“This is no cave,” Han corrected.

“What?”

“It’s worse!” Marek added.

Leia’s mouth dropped open. She now saw that the rocks of the cave entrance are not rocks at all. But instead, they are giant teeth quickly closing around the tiny ship. Chewie howled with fright.

The Millennium Falcon zoomed through the monster’s mouth, rolling on its side, and barely made it between two of the gigantic white teeth before the huge jaws slammed shut. The enormous space slug moved its head out of the cave as the Falcon flew out its mouth. The monster tilt its head, watching the starship fly away.

The Falcon raced out of the asteroid crater and into the deadly rain of the asteroid storm.

“We never speak of this!” Marek declared.

“Agreed, kid!” Han replied. “Agreed!”

<> 

With Yoda strapped to his back, Luke climbed up one of the many thick vines growing in the swamp. Panting heavily, he continued his course: Climbing, flipping through the air, jumping over roots, and racing in-and-out of the heavy ground fog. The Equestrian heroes followed closely with their own coach, Cal Kestis. The kids had a slight difficult time keeping up, while Fluttershy kept a tight hold over Spike. Rarity, meanwhile, had the worst time.

“Ooh… we would end up having to train in a swamp!” Rarity complained. “Why couldn’t we do this in a cleaner environment? Like a temple or something…”

“Just keep running…” Cal replied.

“Yes! Run! Yes,” Yoda instructed. “A Jedi’s strength flows from the Force. But beware of the dark side. Anger… fear… aggression. The dark side of the Force are they. Easily they flow, quick to join you in a fight.”

“That’s somethin’ I just ain’t gettin’,” Applejack spoke up. “Are you sayin’ it ain’t right to be angry once in a while?”

“If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny,” Yoda warned. “Consume you it will, as it did Obi-Wan’s apprentice.”

“Hmm…” Storm thought, looking down.

“What about that creepy Vader guy?” Fluttershy brought up. “Is this scary dark side that strong?”

“No… no… no. Quicker, easier, more seductive.”

“Like whenever Rainbow Dash and Applejack are always doing those ‘gestures’ in our adventures that always draws the ire of the haters of our stories?” Pinkie Pie brought up.

Rainbow Dash frowned toward Pinkie with a pout, while Applejack adjusted her hat to hide the blush on her cheeks.

“How am I to know the good side from the bad?” Luke asked.

“You will know,” Yoda assured. “When you are calm, at peace. Passive.”

“Yoda makes a good point,” Storm replied. “A Jedi must sue the Force for knowledge and defense. True Jedis never use our powers for assault, even if it’s the easiest thing to do.”

“Master Yoda,” Twilight spoke up. “Why can’t—”

“No, no, there is ‘no’ why,” Yoda interrupted. “Nothing more will I teach you today. Clear your mind of questions. Mmm-mmmmmmm…”

“But I feel like we only just started. We need to know ‘lots’ more if we hope to beat the Empire.”

“You’ll find a little knowledge goes a long way,” Cal replied. “Believe me, I know.”

R2 beeped in the distance as Luke let Yoda down to the ground. Breathing heavily, he took his shirt from a nearby tree branch and pulled it on. The rest of the Equestrians took a seat for a quick breather, removing their shoes to rub the ache in their feet.

“Boy… and I thought boot camp at Wonderbolts training was tough,” Rainbow sighed.

“How these humans do this sort of thing every day I’ll never understand,” Rarity sighed, facing Luke. “No offense darling.”

“None taken,” Luke sighed.

Just then, the group felt a slight tremor as if the force were drawing them to find something.

“Do you all feel that?” Luke asked.

Everyone else nodded as they looked around the swamp.

“Looks like we got company,” Rainbow observed, cracking her knuckles.

“I do hope they’re friendly,” Fluttershy spoke. 

“Please let them be friendly…” Spike begged.

“Maybe they’d like a ‘Welcome to Degobah’ party?” Pinkie suggested.

The pink party pony held a cake, while wearing a party hat.

“Highly doubt that…” Applejack replied. “What with all the luck we’ve been havin’ lately.”

“Not a threat,” Yoda replied. “Former Jedi, she is.”

“She?” The girls asked, in unison.

Just then, they looked forward to the sound of footsteps. Appearing before the group was a hooded figure with feminine features. 

“Ahsoka, a long time, it has been,” Yoda spoke.

Sure enough, the figure flipped her hood and removed her cloak to reveal herself to the others. Before their very eyes was the former Jedi Padawan herself, Ahsoka Tano, a female Togruta standing one-point eighty-eight meters tall, with blue eyes and orange skin with white markings and blue stripes. 



“It certainly has grand master,” She replied, facing Storm. “Hello Storm…”

“Good to see you again Ahsoka,” Storm bowed.

Now it was the group’s turn to be surprised once more. Starring wide-eyed at this new revelation. But none more surprised than Twilight Sparkle herself.

“Do you know every Jedi Knight in this universe?” Twilight raised an eyebrow.

“Not every Jedi…” Storm replied.

“Ahsoka Tano, this is,” Yoda introduced. “Fear not everyone. Anakin Skywalker, former apprentice, she was.”

Luke Skywalker approached her, with shock and awe.

“You knew my father?” He asked Ashoka.

“Yes… I did,” Ahsoka replied. “He was my master as we fought during the Clone Wars.”

She placed a hand on the side of Luke’s face. He noticed a lone tear streaming down her face.

“You look so much like him when I first met him.”

This caused Luke to smile, blushing a bit as everyone approached her.

“And how do you know Storm?” Spike asked curiously.

“He and I trained together alongside Luke’s father during the Clone Wars,” Ahsoka replied, facing Storm. “Apart from our master, Storm was one of the most promising students ever trained.”

“Well, I wouldn’t say as good as you,” Storm replied. “What brings you to the Dagobah system?”

“The same reason as Cal’s,” Ahsoka answered. “I’ve come to help you train for the fight against the Emperor. If it’s additional lessons you seek, you’ll find there’s more right there.”

The group turned toward a huge, black tree. Its base was surrounded by a mere few feet of water. Giant, twisted roots formed a dark and sinister cave on one side. Luke and Fluttershy stared at the tree, trembling. 

“There’s something not right here,” Luke spoke.

Yoda sat along a large root, poking his Gimer stick into the dirt. Cal and Ahsoka stood close by.

“It feels cold…” Fluttershy trembled. “Like d-d-d-death…”

“That place… is strong with the dark side of the Force,” Yoda spoke. “A domain of evil it is. In you must go.”

“And what’ll we find when we go in there?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Only what you take with you.”

The group looked warily between the tree and their masters. Luke started to strap on his weapon belt.

“Your weapons… you will not need them,” Yoda spoke.

Luke gave the tree a long look, then shook his head ‘no’. Yoda merely shrugged in response.

“Better let me go first,” Luke told the group.

“Whatever you say Luke ole buddy,” Pinkie chattered nervously.

“But please Luke, you must be careful,” Fluttershy advised worriedly.

Luke nodded before he reached up and brush aside some hanging vines. Then before the groups very eyes, they watched as he entered the tree.

<> 

Luke moved into the almost total darkness of the wet, slimy cave. The youth could barely make out the edge of the passage. Holding his lit saber before him, he saw a lizard crawling up the side of the cave and a snake wrapped around the branches of a tree. Luke drew a deep breath, then pushed deeper into the cave. The space widened around him, but he felt rather than saw it. His sword cast the only light as he peered into the very quiet darkness. 

Suddenly, a loud *HISS!* broke the silence. Darth Vader appeared across the blackness, illuminated by his own just-ignited laser sword. Immediately, he charged toward Luke, his saber held high. He was upon the youth in seconds, but Luke sidestepped perfectly and slashed at Vader with his sword.

And just like that… Darth Vader was quickly decapitated. His helmet-encased head flew from his shoulders, while his body disappeared into the blackness. The metallic banging of the helmet filled the cave as Vader’s head spun and bounced, smashed along the floor, and finally stopped. For an instant it rested on the floor, then it cracked vertically. The black helmet and breath mask fell away to reveal… Luke’s head.

Across the space, Luke stood gasping at the sight, wide-eyed in terror. Until eventually, the decapitated head itself faded away like a vision.

<> 

The group stood anxiously watching the entrance to the tree, hoping, and praying for Luke’s well-being. The girls and Spike turned toward Yoda who sat on his root, calmly leaning on his Gimer Stick. 

“Fear nothing because you fought many monsters, you say,” Yoda spoke. “What true fear is, you do not.”
> On the Run
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vader’s Imperial Star Destroyer moved through space, guarded by its convoy of TIE fighters. Darth Vader himself stood in the back control area of his ship’s bridge with a motley group of men and creatures. Darth Seraphina walked into the area with Grievous, the Dazzlings, and Demitria in tow. Admiral Piett and two controllers stood at the front of the bridge and watched the group with score.

“Bounty hunters,” Piett muttered. “We don’t need that scum.”

“Yes, sir,” The First Controller agreed.

“Those Rebels won’t escape us.”

“Sir, we have a priority signal from the Star Destroyer Avenger,” The Second Controller interrupted.

“Right,” Piett replied.

The group standing before Vader were a bizarre array of galactic fortune hunters. There was Bossk, a slimy, tentacled monster with two huge, bloodshot eyes in a soft baggy face; Zuckuss and Dengar, two battle-scarred, mangy human types; IG-88, a battered, tarnished chrome war droid; and Boba Fett, a man in a weapon-covered armored space suit.

“… There will be a substantial reward for the one who finds the Millenium Falcon,” Vader instructed. “You are free to use any methods necessary, but I want them alive. No disintegrations.”

“As you wish,” Boba Fett spoke.

At that moment, Admiral Piett approached Vader in a rush of excitement.

“Lord Vader! My lord, we have them.”

<> 

The Millennium Falcon sped through deep space, closely followed by a firing Imperial Star Destroyer. A large asteroid about the same size as the Falcon tumbled rapidly toward the starship. The tiny Falcon banked to avoid the giant asteroid as smaller rocks pelted its surface. The small craft roared under the asteroid which exploded harmlessly on the hull of the vast Star Destroyer.

The ship shuddered as flak exploded near the cockpit window. 3PO checked a tracking scope on the side control panel, while Leia watched tensely out the window. Galen Marek stood close by the droid, watching the scope.

“Oh, thank goodness we’re coming out of the asteroid field,” 3PO sighed with relief.

“I wouldn’t be too excited,” Marek warned, looking out intensely. “Out of the frying pan, into the fire…”

Chewie barked excitedly as the rain of asteroids began to subside. A bolt from the Star Destroyer set up a fiery explosion on the back side of the Falcon, causing it to lurch to one side. Marek barely held on trying to keep his balance.

The Falcon itself was struck hard by another bolt from the Star Destroyer which created a huge explosion near the cockpit of the smaller ship. The Falcon tilted steeply, before righting itself in position. Marek climbed his way into the cockpit just as Han corrected the angle of his ship.

“At this rate, we can safely say the Empire are not interested in taking prisoners,” Marek confirmed.

“No… you think?” Leia muttered.

“Let’s get out of here,” Han declared. “Ready for light-speed?”

Marek quickly grabbed onto something, preparing for full speed.

“One… two… three!” Han counted.

Han pulled back on the hyperspace throttle and—nothing happened. Flak bursts continued to rock the ship.

“It’s not fair!” Han panicked frantically. 

Chewie, very angry, started to growl and bark at his friend and captain. Again, Han desperately pulled back on the throttle.

“Why aren’t we jumping to light speed?” Marek called out.

“The transfer circuits aren’t working,” Han observed. “It’s not my fault!”

“Oh great!” Marek muttered.

Chewie put his head into his hands, whining.

“No light-speed?” Leia asked, half-expecting.

“It’s not my fault,” Han repeated.

“Sir, we just lost the main rear deflector shield,” 3PO reported. “One more direct hit on the back quarter and we’re done for.”

Han paused for a moment, made his decision, and pulled back on a lever.

“Turn her around,” Han ordered.

Chewie barked in puzzlement.

“I said turn her around! I’m going to put all power in the front shield.”

“You’re going to attack them?!” Leia asked, in shock.

“But that’s an Imperial Star Destroyer!” Marek pointed out. “We can’t possibly fight something that big.”

“I must agree with Master Marek,” 3PO agreed. “The odds of surviving a direct assault on an Imperial Star Destroyer…”

“Shut up!” Leia shouted, frustrated.

“You’re crazy, all of you!” Marek shouted, holding on. “Better know what you’re doing, ‘Captain’.”

“Yeah… me too,” Han replied.

The Falcon banked, making a steep, twisting turn. In the next moment, it raced toward the Star Destroyer, looking very small against the massive surface of the Imperial ship. As it moved across the surface of the Star Destroyer, the Falcon bobbed and weaved to avoid the numerous flak bursts.

The tiny Falcon hurdled directly for the Avenger’s bridge. The Imperials stationed there are stunned to see the small spaceship racing low across the hull, heading directly at the huge windows of the bridge area. Alarms go off everywhere. The Destroyer’s commander, Captain Needa, can scarcely believe his eyes.

“They’re moving to attack position!” Needa shouted. “Shields up!”

Needa and his men ducked as the Falcon neared the bridge window. At the last minute, the Falcon veered off and out of sight… and all was quiet.

“Track them,” Needa ordered. “They may come around for another pass.”

“Captain Needa, the ship no longer appears on our scopes,” The Tracking Officer reported.

“They can’t have disappeared. No ship that small has a cloaking device.”

“Well, there’s no trace of them, sir.”

“Captain, Lord Vader demands an update on the pursuit,” The Communications Officer reported.

“Get a shuttle ready,” Neeta drew a breath. “I shall assume full responsibility for losing them and apologize to Lord Vader. Meanwhile, continue to scan the area.”

“Yes, Captain Needa,” The Communications Officer sighed.

<> 

The Jedi training taking place in the swamps of Dagobah were intensifying more and more by the minute. After Luke’s altercation with the dark side in the pit of the swamp, he wasn’t entirely sure what to think anymore. Seeing his face in Vader’s helmet made him wonder just how corrupting the dark side could really be. Could he end up just like Vader? Course none of the girls, not even Spike, had it better when their turn came to enter the tree. Most of their trips related to their insecurities, but others… well, they’d rather not talk about it

In any case, neither one had any time to think about it as one by one the group were still in the midst of their training. 

Cal was currently training Applejack and Rainbow in the art of lightsaber combat, allowing them to use one of his lightsabers to practice with. At the moment, he was in the midst of a sparring contest with Rainbow Dash who held her own against the Jedi.

“In order to become an expert at wielding a lightsaber, you must first cast aside any and all emotions and focus on what you are called to do,” Cal instructed. “Now I’m coming at you with everything I’ve got; I want you to focus solely on me.”

“Gotcha!” Rainbow nodded.

Rainbow gripped the hilt of the lightsaber in her hand tightly, as Cal came charging at her. Thinking fast, Rainbow leapt over his head in a flip and came down from behind him with a swing of the saber. Cal quickly clashed with Rainbow as the two went back and forth. Eventually, Rainbow noticed an opportunity when she leapt over Cal again, kicking his legs out from under him and he fell on his back with Rainbow aiming the saber right at him. She looked down at Cal with a smug look on her face.

“And that’s why I’m totally awesome!” She bragged.

Cal gave a little smirk and nod of his head.

“I must admit, you’re pretty impressive,” He complimented. “Except the fact you’ve sacrificed your footing for a quick takedown.”

Rainbow cocked her eyebrow curiously before a loose patch of ground gave way beneath her and she yelled out as she fell into the slimy swamp water. Applejack burst out laughing from the sidelines as Rainbow dragged herself from the marsh and Cal got back to his feet. Rainbow sighed to herself, now covered in swamp water and muck.

“Rule number one: Always mind your surroundings,” Cal instructed.

“Gee… thanks!” Rainbow grumbled.

“Next!”

<> 

A bit further away, Ahsoka taught Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie how to use the force to manipulate objects. She demonstrated by picking up a series of boulders and moved them near effortless from one location to another. When it came time for them to try, Fluttershy was first to go. Fluttershy looked hard toward the smaller rock, trying to think and make the rock move. After nearly ten minutes, however, it just wasn’t working. All at once, Fluttershy felt it was time to give in.

“It’s no use!” Fluttershy sighed, defeated. “I can’t move it. I don’t even know why I try. This whole time I’ve been here, all I’ve done is run and hide. I can’t fight; I can’t shoot a blaster. I can’t seem to do anything right!”

Pinkie noticed the sad look on Fluttershy’s face and went to comfort her somber friend.

“Aww come now Fluttershy, let’s turn that frown upside down,” Pinkie spoke positively. “You’ll get the hang of it eventually. So what if you don’t get it on the first try?”

“She’s absolutely right Fluttershy,” Ahsoka nodded. “You are after all still just a Padawan. Even I myself found it hard to even move so much as an inch in the beginning. It took me years before I was able to master my skill and even still I feel I have much to learn.”

Fluttershy just slumped down onto a fallen tree with a look of uncertainty.

“I just don’t think I’m…”

“That’s your problem right there,” Ahsoka interrupted.

“What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

Ahsoka came up alongside her and took a seat next to Fluttershy.

“You’re thinking far too much,” Ahsoka explained. “When it comes to the force, it’s not a matter of intelligence as much as it is just to reach out and feel it.”

“But I thought the Jedi don’t use emotions.”

“It’s not about feeling ‘emotions’, it’s about feeling ‘the force’ around you. One day, you’ll understand. But for now… ‘try’ again.”

“Yes Master Ahsoka…” Fluttershy nodded.

<> 

Meanwhile, Storm helped Twilight and Rarity learn the art of meditation which for the Jedi is one of the most powerful tools. Even Spike himself tried getting into it, assuming the same position as the girls.

“Now focus on my voice, feel the Force to unlock your potential,” Storm instructed, eyes shut. “Take everything that troubles you into one big cloud… let it all float away. Let the Force relax you; free to do anything you wish.”

“Spoken like Somnambula,” Twilight sighed.

“Well I did learn from among the best,” Storm replied. “Took all I learned and added a few liberties during my time here…”

“It’s nice that you’re having me included in your sessions,” Spike sighed. “But I don’t know how this is going to help me. In case you haven’t noticed, I’m no bipedal warrior like my friends. I’m lucky enough just to tag along even without my own abilities.”

“All creatures in the known universe are able to use the Force here my friend,” Storm replied. “Back home, you were a mighty dragon but here… you must find a means to apply a magic far greater beyond your understanding. Reach for the magic hidden deep from within, and you too will unlock your potential.”

“Stormy’s right darling,” Rarity replied. “We’re all learning to adapt here just as well. I’m most certain you’ll get the hang of it.”

“Thanks Rarity…” Spike smiled, taking deep breaths. “Let’s just hope Luke’s having a better time than we are.”

Meanwhile, Luke was upside down showing enormous strain. He stood on his hands, with Yoda perched on his feet. Opposite Luke and Yoda are two rocks the size of bowling balls. Luke stared at the rocks, concentrating hard. One of the rocks lifted from the ground, floating up to rest on the other.

“Use the Force…” Yoda instructed. “Yes…”

Yoda tapped Luke’s leg. Quickly, Luke lifted one hand from the ground. His body wavered, but he maintained his balance. R2, standing nearby, whistled and beeped frantically.

“Now… the stone,” Yoda continued. “Feel it.”

Luke concentrated on trying to lift the top rock. It rose a few feet, shaking under the strain. But distracted by R2’s frantic beeping, Luke lost his balance and finally collapsed. Yoda jumped clear.

“Concentrate!” Yoda shouted.

Annoyed at the disturbance, Luke turned over toward R2, who rocked urgently back and forth in front of him. His actions drew the attention of the others.

“What in tarnation’s wrong with R2?” Applejack asked.

R2 waddled closer to Luke, chirping wildly, then scooted over the edge of the swamp. Catching on, Luke and the group rushed toward the water’s edge. The X-wing fighter has sunk, and only the tip of its nose showed above the lake’s surface.

“Luke!!! Your ship!” Fluttershy cried out.

“Oh no!” Luke moaned. “We’ll never get it out now.”

Yoda stomped his foot in irritation.

“So certain are you. Always with you it cannot be done. Hear you nothing that I say?”

“He does have a point Luke,” Storm spoke up. “You tend to quit rather quickly.”

Luke looked uncertainly out at the ship.

“Master, moving stones around is one thing. This is totally different.”

“No! No different!” Yoda reprimanded. “Only different in your mind. You must unlearn what you have learned.

“All right,” Luke focused, quietly. “I’ll give it a try.”

“No! Try not. Do. Or do not. There is no try.”

“True Jedi Knights never ‘try’ anything,” Cal translated. “We just ‘do it’.”

Luke closed his eyes, concentrating on thinking the ship out. Slowly, the X-wing’s nose began to rise above the water. The group looked on anxiously, watching it hover for a moment… and then it slid back, disappearing once again.

“Luke…” Twilight whined.

“I can’t!” Luke panted heavily. “It’s too big.”

“Size matters not,” Yoda shook. “Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you? Hm? Mmm.”

“I don’t feel comfortable doing that,” Spike shook his head. 

“And well you should not,” Yoda continued. “For my ally is the Force. And a powerful ally it is. Life creates it, makes it grow. Its energy surrounds us and binds us. Luminous beings are we…”

Yoda pinched Luke’s shoulder during his talk.

“… not this crude matter,” Yoda explained, with a sweeping gesture. “You must feel the Force around you. Here, between you… me… the tree… the rock… everywhere! Yes, even between the land and the ship.”

“The Force is much like the Magic in Equestria,” Storm added. “There is an energy source that exists all around us. There’s a sixth sense within us that is able to touch this power, to control it through the will of our own mind. The only way you can assure that you can apply this power is to cast all doubt aside, reach out, and trust in its power.”

“You guys want the impossible,” Luke sighed, discouraged.

Quietly Yoda turned toward the X-wing fighter. With his eyes closed and his head bowed, he rose his arm and pointed at the ship. Soon, the fighter rose above the water and moved forward as R2 beeped in terror and scooted away. The rest of the group stared in awe, even Twilight Sparkle was impressed. 

The entire X-wing moved majestically, surely, toward the show. Yoda stood on a tree root and guided the fighter carefully toward the beach. Luke stared in astonishment as the fighter settled down onto the shore. He walked toward Yoda.

“I don’t… I don’t believe it,” Luke spoke, in shock.

“That is why you fail,” Yoda pointed out.

Luke shook his head, bewildered. Ahsoka folded her arms with amusement.

“Rule number two,” Ahsoka added. “Never… question… Master Yoda.”

“Ever…” Storm concluded.

<> 

The fleet around Vader’s Star Destroyer now included Needa’s Star Destroyer, the Avenger.

“Apology accepted, Captain Needa,” Vader spoke.

Clutching desperately at his throat, Captain Needa slumped down, then fell over on his back, at Darth Vader’s feet. Two stormtroopers picked up the lifeless body and carried it quickly away as Admiral Piette and two of his captains hurried up toward the Dark Lord.

“Lord Vader, our ships have completed their scan of the area and found nothing,” Piette reported. “If the Millennium Falcon went into light-speed, it’ll be on the other side of the galaxy by now.”

“Alert all commands,” Vader ordered. “Calculate every possibly destination along their last known trajectory.”

“Yes, my lord. We’ll find them.”

“Don’t fail me again, Admiral.”

Vader left as the admiral turned to an aid, a little more uneasy than when he arrived.

“Alert all commands,” Piett ordered. “Deploy the fleet.”

<> 

Vader’s ship moved away, flanked by its fleet of smaller ships. The Avenger glided off into space in the opposite direction. No one on that ship or on Vader’s were aware that, clinging to the side of the Avenger, is the pirate ship, the Millennium Falcon.

“Captain Solo, this time you have gone too far,” 3PO objected.

“Quiet…” Marek muttered.

“No, I will not be quiet, Master Marek. Why doesn’t anyone listen to me?”

“Pretty hard not to…”

“The fleet is beginning to break up,” Han informed Chewie. “Go back and stand by the manual release for the landing claw.”

Chewie barked, struggling from his seat, and climbed out of the cabin.

“I really don’t see how that is going to help,” 3PO continued. “Surrender is a perfectly acceptable alternative in extreme circumstances. The Empire may be gracious enough…”

Leia reached over and shut off 3PO, mid-sentence.

“Thank you,” Han sighed with relief.

“What did you have in mind for your next move?” Leia asked.

“If they follow standard Imperial procedure,” Marek explained. “They’ll dump their garbage before jumping to light-speed. I’ll admit Han… you’re a lot smarter than I thought.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Han replied. “Now… we just float away.”

“With the rest of the garbage,” Leia spoke. “Then what?”

“Then we’ve got to find a safe port somewhere around here. Got any ideas?”

“No. Where are we?”

“The Anoat system.”

“Anoat System,” Leia pondered. “There’s not much there.”

“No. Well, wait. This is interesting. Lando.”

Han pointed to a computer map-screen on the control panel. Leia slipped out of her chair and moved next to the handsome pilot. Small light points representing several systems flashed by on the computer screen.

“Lando system?” Leia asked.

“Lando’s not a system, he’s a man,” Han corrected. “Lando Calrissian. He’s a card player, gambler, scoundrel. You’d like him.”

“Thanks.”

“Bespin. It’s pretty far, but I think we can make it.”

“A mining colony?” Leia read the computer.

“Yeah, a Tibanna gas mine,” Han clarified. “Lando conned somebody out of it. We go back a long way, Lando and me.”

“And you’re sure he can be trusted?” Marek asked.

“No,” Han replied. “But he has no love for the Empire, I can tell you that.”

“Duly noted,” Marek turned away.

Chewie barked over the intercom. Han quickly changed his readouts and stretched to look out the cockpit window.

“Here we go, Chewie,” Han spoke through intercom. “Stand by. Detach!”

Han leaned back in his chair and gave Leia an invisible smile. She thought for a moment, shook her head; a grin crept across her face, and she gave him a quick kiss.

“You do have your moments,” Leia replied. “Not many, but you have them.”

Galen Marek uttered not a retort as he stared toward the cockpit window into the vastness of space.

As the Avenger Star Destroyer moved slowly into space, the hatch on its underbelly opened, sending a trail of junk behind it. Hidden among the refuse, the Falcon tumbled away. In the next moment, the Avenger roared off into hyperspace. The Falcon’s engines are ignited, and it raced off into the distance. Amidst the slowly drifting junk, Boba Fett’s ship appeared and moved after the Falcon.

<> 

In the clearing behind Yoda’s house, Luke stood upside-down, but his face showed less strain and more concentration than before. Yoda sat on the ground below the young warrior. On the other side of the clearing, two equipment cases slowly rose into the air. Nearby R2 watched, humming to himself, when suddenly he too rose into the air. His little legs kicked desperately, and his head turned frantically, looking for help.

“Concentrate… feel the Force flow,” Yoda instructed. “Yes. Good. Calm, yes. Through the Force, things you will see. Other places. The future… the past. Old friends long gone.”

All of a sudden, Luke became distressed.

“Han! Leia!” Luke shouted.

The two packing boxes and R2 fell to the ground with a crash, then Luke himself tumbled over.

“Hmm…” Yoda shook his head. “Control, control. You must learn control.”

“What did you see Luke?” Fluttershy asked, sympathetically.

“I saw… I saw a city in the clouds,” Luke answered.

“A city in the clouds?” Rainbow thought. “Reminds me of home.”

“Mmm… friends you have there,” Yoda presumed.

“They were in pain,” Luke spoke.

“You saw the future didn’t you Luke?” Storm surmised. “That is one of a Jedi’s abilities, to see a possible scenario of events yet to come.”

“Future? Will they die?” Luke asked worriedly.

Yoda closed his eyes and lowered his head.

“Difficult to see. Always in motion is the future.”

“I’ve got to go to them.”

“Decide you must how to serve them best,” Yoda warned. “If you leave now, help them you could. But you would destroy all for which they have fought and suffered.”

Yoda’s words stopped Luke cold. Gloom shrouded him as he nodded his head sadly. To which Twilight shook her head and kept a determined look on her face.

“We can’t just sit here and do nothing!” Twilight insisted. “If they’re truly held captive, then we need to go save them. Not to mention if the Empire’s there, we could also possibly find Sunset.”

”I am afraid the situation is far more different than you believe Twilight Sparkle.”

The sudden voice made everyone freeze and look around for the source. They all turned to a faint light slowly approaching them and when it dissipated, there before them stood the ghostly figure of a Jedi woman in ancient robes staring directly at them. This was none other than former Grandmaster of the Jedi Order herself, Satele Shan.

*Deploy Satele Shan poster here*

Unlike the girls and little Spike, Storm wasn’t shocked by the presence of the deceased Jedi Master. Rather he, Cal, and Ahsoka stepped forward and bended to one knee in her presence. Satele merely chuckled at the display.

”There is no need for such formalities my students,” Satele assured them.

All three simply nodded as they rose back to their feet.

“Apologizes Grandmaster,” Storm apologized. “It’s just that it’s not very often we stand in the presence of greatness.”

Once again, Satele just chuckled.

”You place far too much glory upon me dearest Storm Shield.”

When the moment of shock eventually passed, the girls finally found their voices and decided to speak up.

“What the hay is going on here?” Rainbow asked shocked.

“Girls, and Spike, allow me to introduce you all to Satele Shan,” Storm introduced. “The Jedi Order’s Grandmaster who served during the Cold and Galactic War between the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire. A true legend amongst the Jedi Order.”

“And you must be the famous Equestrian Heroes,” Satele observed. “Just as ‘you’ are the one they call… Twilight Sparkle.”

“How do you know my name?” Twilight Sparkle asked curiously.

“We have been watching your progress for quite some time, from the day you came to this galaxy. And we know you merely seek the training believing it will help to recover your lost friend. But it is only fair to warn you, that is but a small fraction of what is truly at stake.”

“We? Who’s ‘we’?” Spike asked. “Are we meeting more Jedi?”

“Not exactly…”

The group turned to the side and they all gasped in shock. But none more shocked than Storm Shield. Slowly approaching from the distant, were two spirits much like Satele… except ‘slightly’ more sinister. The first was a masked human, so it seemed, with a hood over his head and nearly every square portion of the body covered in metallic armor. A truly intimidating sight before the group. 



The one beside him was a female Togruta with white marks around the eyes and head of her orange-yellow skin with blue-and-white head tails. 



Snapping back to reality, Storm Shield reached for his pike till Satele raised her arm.

“That won’t be necessary Storm Shield,” Satele Shan advised. “There’s no point.”

“What are they doing here?!” Storm asked, glaring. “You and I both know what they’re capable of!”

“Whoa! Where’s the fire Storm?” Rainbow asked. “You know those two?”

“More than just know them,” Storm spoke. “Darth Marr and Ashara Zavros… they’re Sith Lords!”

“SITH LORDS?!?!?!” The group shouted.

“Oh no… we’ve been discovered!” Fluttershy whimpered.

“I would not be so quick to make assumptions Miss Fluttershy,” Ashara replied calmly.

“If we wanted to inform of your presence with the Empire, we’d have done so by now,” Darth Marr. “On the other hand, we know that is not what Sunset Shimmer would want.”

The very mention of Sunset Shimmer instantly drew their attention, though they remained cautious about the pair.

“What about Sunset Shimmer?” Twilight asked, suspicious. “Marek insisted that Sunset Shimmer was gone…”

“Ah yes, the one they call ‘Starkiller’, Vader’s new apprentice,” Darth Marr nodded. “Contrary to your popular belief, princess, the boy is only… ‘half’ right.”

“If recovering Sunset Shimmer is what you want, you’ll need everything we know in order to win,” Ashara added.

“And just what makes you think we’d be so quick to trust the Sith?” Rarity questioned. “No disrespect Lady Satele, but in case you forgot… the Sith have been out to kill us!”

“I am well aware of the severity of your situation Rarity,” Satele replied calmly. “But it may surprise you all that the Jedi & Sith, as different as we are, share at least one thing in common. In our own way, we do everything within our power to achieve our definition of ‘peace’.”

“Master Yoda, aren’t you going to say anything?” Luke asked.

“Waiting, I am,” Master Yoda replied. “See you do next, I must.”

“Supposin’ yer right, and I ain’t sayin’ yer not,” Applejack began. “Wut are ya’ sayin’?”

“There are moments Jedi and Sith strive for, when the hope of victory becomes real,” Satele began. “When we can see peace on the horizon.”

“The Sith are not so much the enemy… only life,” Darth Marr added. “Death is our solace.”

“And less you forget Master Storm, I too was a Jedi Padawan and I still know the ways,” Ashara reminded. “Passion, peace. Strength, knowledge. Power, serenity. Victory, harmony. Freedom…”

“The force,” Storm finished. “I remember it… still does not mean I approved you leaving the Order.”

“I’m afraid there’s time not to reflect on past actions,” Satele spoke. “Even now, the Emperor grows stronger day by day with every corner of the galaxy under his control. And the only way to ensure absolute victory, is to defeat the Emperor himself.”

“But first… we must take you to a place that holds all the tools you’ll need to start off,” Darth Marr concluded.

“Tools?” Twilight questioned.

<> 

Satele, Marr, and Ashara led Storm, Spike, and the girls to the ancient forge hidden deep within the wilds of Dagobah. After thousands of years, the forge had since turned to ruins and was over-growing with foliage and fauna. Yet as they grew nearer to the ancient structure, they could feel the strong presence of the force all around them. Climbing the crumbling steps carefully to the top of the forge, the entire group looked toward the swamp.

“Why is it you brought us here exactly?” Twilight questioned.

“In order to bring an end to the empire once and for all, you must first forge your own lightsabers,” Satele explained.

Just the idea of creating their own lightsabers was more than enough to raise Rainbow and Pinkie’s excitement.

“We get to make our own lightsabers?!” Pinkie squealed.

“That is so awesome!” Rainbow cheered.

“Contain yourself!” Marr ordered. “Forging these ancient weapons is no game. You must call upon the force itself to construct them for the ancient metals in this hallowed ground. Then when you face the empire, they won’t be ready for it.”

“As much as I hate agreeing with a Sith, Lord Marr is correct,” Storm admitted. “Once you forge your own Lightsabers, they become part of your very souls. But in order for them to be part of you, you six need to focus.”

“So how do we start?” Applejack asked.

“You must kneel before the forge,” Ashara explained. “Use the force to draw the weapon parts from the ruin and put them together to form the saber hilts. Only then, will you earn your sabers.”

The girls turned toward one another and nodded in unison.

“For Sunset,” Twilight declared.

“For Sunset,” The girls answered.

Forming a circle together, they all sat cross-legged in the midst of the ruins. Closing their eyes and calming their faces, the girls focused on drawing the force while Storm and Spike watched from the sides. Then, before their very eyes they could see the magic at work.

Soon, metal parts slowly rose through the ruins and drew themselves toward the group. Parts clicked together to form a unique set of handles based on the girls’ desires. The spirits and the men watched as the building process took place, hilts forming just inches from the girls faces. In addition to the parts for the hilt alone, crystals emerged from the walls and slowly inserted themselves into their lightsaber hilts.

By the time the girls opened their eyes, soon as the process was complete, they looked upon their completed sabers. One by one, they grabbed their individual weapons in their hands and ignited them simultaneously.



“Ooh… yeah…” Rainbow Dash smiled.

<> 

The powerful pirate starship blasted through space as it headed toward the soft pink planet of Bespin. Down along the gaseous planet, the ship banked around huge billowing clouds that formed a canyon. And dead head, the ship hurdled toward the system’s Cloud City.

Suddenly, two twin-pod cloud cars appeared and moved toward the Falcon. The cloud cars drew alongside the starship. One of the cloud cars opened fire on the Falcon, its flak rocking the ship. Chewie barked his concern, while Marek looked on intensely gripping his saber tightly.

“No, I don’t have a landing permit,” Han spoke, through transmitter. “I’m trying to reach Lando Calrissian.”

More flak bursts outside the cockpit window and rattled the ship’s interior. Leia looked worried.

“Whoa! Wait a minute!” Han shouted. “Let me explain.”

“You will not deviate from your present course,” The intercom spoke.

“Rather touchy, aren’t they?” 3PO observed.

“I thought you knew this person,” Leia pointed out.

Even Chewie barked and growled at his boss.

“Well, that was a long time ago,” Han told Chewie. “I’m sure he’s forgotten about that.”

“Forgotten… what?” Marek asked curiously.

“It’s a long, long story kid…” Han answered.

“Permission granted to land on Platform Three-two-seven,” The Intercom spoke.

“Thank you,” Han replied.

Angry, Han snapped off the intercom. Marek and Chewie looked at Han, while the latter grunted. Han turned to the worried princess and her droid.

“There’s nothing to worry about,” Han assured. “We go way back, Lando and me.”

“Who’s worried?” Leia replied, unconvinced.

“Suddenly, I’d rather take my chances with the Empire,” Marek muttered.
> Cloud City
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Flying through the vast regions of space, the Millennium Falcon along with its passengers quickly find themselves approaching the outlines of large clouds. The clouds part to reveal a full view of a magnificent city as it bobbed in and out of the cloud surface. The cloud cars and the Falcon head for the gleaming white metropolis. With the cloud cars still guarding it, the Falcon lands on one of the Cloud City’s platforms. Han and Leia stood at the open door, armed. Behind them, Chewie (also armed) surveyed the scene warily.

“Oh! No one to meet us,” 3PO observed.

“I don’t like this,” Leia looked around.

“You’re not alone Princess,” Starkiller remarked. “Something doesn’t seem right.”

“Well, what would you like?” Han asked.

“Well, they did let us land,” 3PO replied.

“Look, don’t worry. Everything’s going to be fine. Trust me.”

“The day I trust my life to a scoundrel is the day Emperor Palpatine plays the fiddle and sings a catchy musical number,” Starkiller grumbled, under his breath. 

<>
(Skip to 3:45)


<>

All of a sudden, Lando Calrissian, a suave, dashing black man in his thirties, lead a group of aides (And some Cloud City guard) rapidly toward the landing platform. The group, like the other citizens of the city, were a motley collection of aliens, droids, and humans of all descriptions. Lando had a grim expression on his face as he moved onto the landing platform.

“See? My friend,” Han gestured, facing Chewie. “Keep your eyes open, okay?”

Chewie growled as Han walked down the ramp. Lando and his men head across the bridge to meet the space pirate. Lando stopped a mere ten feet from Han. The two men eyed each other carefully, and Lando shook his head.

“Why, you slimy, doubly-crossing, no-good swindler!” Lando frowned. “You’ve got a lot of guts coming here, after what you pulled.”

Han pointed to himself innocently, mouthing, ‘Me?’. Marek slowly leaned toward Leia’s side.

“What do you think he did to make him so mad?” Marek asked.

“I don’t want to know…” Leia muttered, through her teeth.

Suddenly, Lando moved threateningly toward Han. Marek nearly reached for his saber… when the man threw his arms around his startled, long-lost friend with an embrace. Even Marek was surprised by the gesture. 

“How you doing, you old pirate?” Lando chuckled. “So good to see you! I never thought I’d catch up with you again. Where you been?”

The two old friends embrace, laughing and chuckling. 

“Well, he seems very friendly,” 3PO observed.

“Yes… ‘very’ friendly,” Leia agreed warily.

“A bit too friendly,” Starkiller nodded, slowly.

“What are you doing here?” Lando asked.

“Ahh… repairs,” Han gestured, toward the Falcon. “I thought you could help me out.”

“What have you done to my ship?” Lando asked, with mock panic.

“Your ship? Hey, remember, you lost her to me fair and square.”

Chewie growled a reserved greeting. Lando suddenly noticed the princess and smiled.

“Hello. What have we here? Welcome. I’m Lando Calrissian. I’m the administrator of this facility. And who might you be?”

Starkiller stepped forward first, offering his hand rather wearily.

“Galen Marek,” He spoke. 

“Ah yes, I’ve heard of you,” Lando responded. “You’re Vader’s rogue apprentice, right? Since when’d you start smuggling stray Sith, Han?”

Marek glared intensely toward Lando, growling lowly as he drew his hand back. Leia was next to approach, walking up to greet Lando.

“Leia,” She introduced herself.

“Welcome, Leia,” Lando smiled. 

Lando bowed before Leia, kissing her hand.

“All right, all right, you old smoothie,” Han stepped in.

Han took Leia by the hand, steering her away from Lando.

“Hello, sir,” 3PO greeted. “I am C-3PO, human-cyborg relations. My facilities are at your…”

Before the droid could finish his self-introduction, Lando turned to follow Han and Leia, who walked toward the city.

“Well, really!” 3PO cried out, offended.

“You really need to keep your introductions short goldie,” Marek replied, walking ahead.

Lando, along with his aid, Lobot, and Han lead the way across the bridge followed by 3PO, Chewie, Leia, and Marek, the latter looking around as if expecting an ambush.

“What’s wrong with the Falcon?” Lando questioned.

“Hyperdrive,” Han answered simply.

“I’ll get my people to work on it.”

“Good.”

Lando soon turned toward Leia.

“You know that ship saved my life quite a few times,” Lando replied. “She’s the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.”

The group soon crossed the narrow bridge and entered the city. They walked down the lovely ‘Art Deco’ passageway, rounding several corners and passed many small plazas. 3PO lagged a bit behind.

“How’s the gas mine?” Han asked. “Is it paying off for you?”

“Oh, not as well as I’d like,” Lando sighed. “We’re a small outpost and not very self-sufficient. And I’ve had supply problems of every kind. I’ve had labor difficulties…”

Lando paused upon seeing Han grinning at him.

“What’s so funny?”

“You,” Han smirked. “Listen to you—you sound like a businessman, a responsible leader. Who’d have thought that, huh?”

Lando was reflective as he looked at Han for a moment.

“You know, seeing you sure brings back a few things,” Lando reflected.

“Yeah,” Han nodded in agreement.

“Yeah,” Lando shook his head. “I’m responsible these days. It’s the price you pay for being successful.”

Han and Lando laughed together, as the group moved through the corridor. Along the way, Galen Marek was so busy searching the area he bumped into a stranger in his path.

“Sorry,” The figure apologized.

But Marek didn’t answer and just kept going. He failed to noticed that 3PO was lagging behind him. The gold robot soon passed a 3PO-type silver droid emerging from a dooy.

“Oh! Nice to see a familiar face.”

“E-chu-ta!” The silver 3PO mumbled.

“How rude!” 3PO gasped.

3PO stopped, watching the silver droid move away. He hard the muffled beeping and whistling of an R2 unit coming from within the room. Curious, 3PO entered the room to investigate.

“That sounds like an R2 unit in there,” 3PO pondered. “I wonder if…”

3PO soon walked through the doorway to the main room and peeked inside.

“Hello? How interesting. Oh, my.”

“Who are you?” A man’s voice called, from within.

“Oh, I’m terribly sorry,” 3PO apologized, frightened. “I didn’t mean to intrude. No, no, please don’t get up. No!”

*BAM!*

A laser bolt toward 3PO’s chest sent him flying in twenty directions. Smoldering mechanical arms and legs bounced off the walls as the door whooshed shut behind him. Meanwhile, Lando, Han, Leia, and Marek continued down the corridor unaware of 3PO’s dreadful accident. Chewbacca glanced around, sniffing the air, but shrugged his shoulders and followed the group.

<> 

Meanwhile, back in the swamps of Dagobah, Luke Skywalker, along with Spike, Storm, and the girls were frantically working on Luke’s fighter trying to get it back into flying shape so they could make their way off Dagobah. It was merely a day or so ago when they were introduced to the ghosts of Satele Shan, Darth Marr, and Ashara Zavros. During that time, the girls constructed their own lightsabers. Speaking of which, Rainbow swung her twin lightsaber around with complete adoration.

“This… is… so… AWESOME!!!” Rainbow squealed, with glee.

Normally Rainbow isn’t the type to showcase her excitement and giddiness in such a childish manner. But given the circumstances, they decided to let her have it. Storm watched her swing her dual saber around with a smile on his face.

“Feels good doesn’t it?” He asked. 

Eventually Rainbow stopped spinning the saber around and clicked the button shutting the crystal off. Now she stood there, looking upon it with the happiest of smiles.

“Uh huh,” She nodded.

Storm chuckled as he grabbed his saber pike from his back and swung it around a bit.

“I know exactly how you feel,” He said. “I felt the same way when I first held this pike in my hands.”

Hearing Storm talk, Twilight Sparkle paused from her share of the repairs and walked alongside him.

“You know Storm, you haven’t really spoken much of your first experience here in this universe,” Twilight implied curiously. “You seem to know so much about this place, and all it only adds to how much I know very little of you.”

Storm paused briefly as a look of ‘almost’ sadness crossed his face. He quickly shook his head and placed the pike behind him.

“It’s not really a time I like to talk about much,” He replied simply.

“Why not?” Twilight asked.

“Just trust me!” Storm snipped. “It’s not a pretty story.”

Twilight Sparkle was slightly taken aback by the sudden change of demeanor, but instead decided not to press the issue all that much. Storm continued his way back to helping the others work on the fighter as Twilight looked on.

“Why is Storm so hesitant to talk about his past here?” Twilight thought. “What could have possibly happened that was so bad?”

In the bright lights of the fighter, Luke loaded a heavy case into the belly of the ship. Storm and the rest of the girls help him load the supplies aboard as well. R2-D2 sat on top of the X-ring, settling down into his cubbyhole. Yoda stood nearby on a log with the ghosts of his former Jedi brethren and the Sith Lord beside him.

“Luke! You must complete the training,” Yoda insisted.

“As must all of you,” Satele added. “Though you have constructed your new weapons, they alone are not nearly enough to face the empire.”

“The Emperor is far too powerful and growing stronger by the day,” Marr concurred. “You will be walking into a slaughter if you charge in without further knowledge of the force.”

“And we will finish the training,” Twilight promised. “We just have one thing we got to do first!”

“I can’t keep the vision out of my head,” Luke added. “They’re our friends; we’ve got to help them.”

“Luke’s right,” Applejack spoke up. “We may not know much ‘bout this here Force stuff, but there’s one thing ah do know how tah do. Lay down a good ole fashioned woopin’, Apple style!”

“Now that’s a girl talking my language,” Rainbow smirked, teasingly.

“You must not go!” Yoda argued.

“But Han and Lei will die if I don’t,” Luke countered.

“You don’t know that.”

Luke and the group turned toward the voice in amazement. Ben Kenobi a.k.a. ‘Obi-Wan’ Kenobi has materialized as a real, ‘slightly’ shimmering image near Yoda. The power of his presence stopped the group.

“Even Yoda cannot see their fate,” Ben concluded.

“Obi-Wan Kenobi!” Pinkie gasped. “You’re a… you’re… a ‘ghost’ guy like your friends!”

“Calm yourself Pinkie,” Ben replied calmly. “There is nothing to be nervous about. I have merely become one with the Force, the makings of what defines a true Jedi Knight. And you still have a long way to go before becoming ‘true’ Jedi.”

“But we can help them!” Luke insisted. “I feel the Force!”

“But you cannot control it,” Ben pointed out. “This is a dangerous time for you when you will be tempted by the dark side of the Force.”

“Yes, yes,” Yoda agreed. “To Obi-Wan you listen. The cave. Remember your failure at the cave!”

“Please don’t bring up the cave…” Fluttershy shuddered. “I still have nightmares of my own trip in there…”

“Yeah, and the only way any pony’s actually going to believe that is if a certain ‘friend’ of ours adds some flashbacks of our trips which we’re not talking about,” Pinkie added, facing the screen.

“But we’ve learned so much since then,” Luke argued. “Master Yoda, we promise to return and finish what we’ve begun.”

“You have our word,” Spike added. “And when my friends make a promise, we keep it!”

“It is you and your abilities the Emperor wants,” Ben informed. “That is why your friends are made to suffer.”

“Which is why we have to go!” Twilight insisted. “The Emperor already took one of our friends; I’m not losing another!”

“Luke, Twilight, I don’t want to lose either of you to the Emperor the way I lost Vader,” Ben insisted.

“They won’t be lost,” Storm declared. “Because I’m going to keep them safe, every step of the way. I’ve prepared for this day for years and I’m ready.”

“Stopped they must be,” Yoda spoke up. “On this all depends. Only a fully trained Jedi Knight with the Force as his ally will conquer Vader and his Emperor. If you end your training now, if you choose the quick and easy path, as Vader did, you will become an agent of evil.”

“Patience,” Ben added.

“And sacrifice Han and Leia?” Luke confronted.

“If you honor what they fight for… yes!” Yoda nodded.

The group turned toward Luke, and they could see the hint of great anguish upon his face. They can feel him struggle with the dilemma, a battle raging in his mind.

“If you choose to face Vader, you will do it alone,” Satele warned. “Not a single one of us can interfere.”

“Even… if we wanted to,” Ashara added.

“We understand,” Luke nodded. “R2, fire up the converters.”

R2 whistled a happy reply.

“Luke don’t give in to hate,” Ben warned. “That leads to the dark side.”

“Strong is Vader,” Yoda warned. “Mind what you have learned. Save you it can.”

“If we’re lucky, we won’t have to fight Vader or his crew,” Rarity hoped. “As far as we’re concerned, this is a rescue mission, and the fate of our friends depends on it.”

“Thank you for everything Master Yoda, all of you,” Twilight thanked. “And don’t worry, we will return here. We promise.”

“Cross our hearts, hope to fly—” Pinkie began, with the gestures.

“Stick a cupcake in our eyes!” The group concluded, in unison.

R2 sealed the cockpit to Luke’s ship, while Storm, Spike, and the girls climbed back into his own starship. Ben, Yoda, and the others stood watch as the roar of the engines and the wind engulfed them.

“Told you, I did,” Yoda sighed. “Reckless is he. Now matters are worse.”

“That very same recklessness has been the downfall of many other ‘fools’ trying to match the power of the dark side,” Marr added disappointed.

“We at least must hope they will succeed where ‘we’ have failed,” Ashara pointed out.

“That boy and his friends are our last hope,” Ben spoke.

“No,” Yoda looked up. “There is another.”

“Indeed…” Satele nodded.

Luke’s tiny X-wing rocketed away from the green planet of Dagobah, off into the darkest of space. Storm’s own ship followed closely behind.

<> 

Within the quarters assigned to her on Cloud City, Leia paced in agitation. She has changed from her cold-weather pants and jacket to a lovely dress. Her hair was down, tied back with ribbons. She moved from a large, open window and turned toward Marek and Han, who entered through the doorway.

“The ship is almost finished,” Han informed. “Two or three more things and we’re in great shape.”

“The sooner we get out of here, the better,” Marek sighed.

“Something’s wrong here,” Leia spoke, uncomfortable. “No one has seen or knows anything about 3PO. He’s been gone too long to have gotten lost.”

“Not a wise thing to do especially in a place like this,” Marek agreed. “A city’s a terrible place where one can easily get lost, for all we know some shady character probably took him in exchange for parts.”

Han and Leia turned toward Galen Marek on the matter, their looks suggesting otherwise. Marek merely glanced back in annoyance.

“Shut up…” Marek muttered.

As Marek strolled toward the side, Han took Leia by the shoulders and gently kissed her forehead.

“Relax. I’ll talk to Lando and see what I can find out.”

“I don’t trust Lando,” Leia spoke illy.

“Neither do I,” Marek added. “He’s up to something… I can feel it.”

“But he is my friend,” Han insisted. “Besides, we’ll soon be gone.”

“And then you’re as good as gone, aren’t you?” Leia asked.

Not speaking, Han considered her words and gazed at her troubled face.

“If it’s any consolation,” Marek spoke up. “I have no reason to stick around either. I’ve already lost someone very important to me, someone who changed my life… what good am I without… her.”

For a brief moment Leia turned toward Marek, and for the first time she could see the sadness on his cold demeanor. True the entire time he’s been a brooding figure, someone latching onto their trip like a leech and more often they wondered why he’s around. But the more Leia took the time to learn from him, she can feel that this man, even for a Stih lord, was still a troubled teen haunted by sadness and pain. Initially she distrusted his presence, except now… she feels sympathetic.

<> 

Inside a junk room, the room was piled high with broken, discard machine parts. Four Ugnaughts, small hoglike creatures, separate the junk and throw some pieces onto a conveyer belt which moved briskly toward a pit of molten metal. Pieces of 3PO’s golden body moved down the belt to be melted down.

Just then, Chewie entered the room and spotted an Ugnaught picking up and inspecting 3PO’s head. The Wookie barked a command, startling the Ugnaught, then reached to grab the head. But the Ugnaught tossed it away from him to another Ugnaught. This game of keep-away went on till 3PO’s head fell from their grip and bounced with a clang onto the ground.

<> 

The door zapped open causing the three humans to turn. Chewbacca walked in, carrying a packing case of 3PO, arms and legs hung over the edge.

“3PO?” Marek questioned, approaching.

“What happened?” Leia asked.

Chewie set the case on a table, grunting, and groaning an explanation.

“Where? Found him in a hunk pile?” Han translated.

“What a mess,” Marek shook his head. “I knew it! I knew this wasn’t right!”

“Chewie, do you think you can repair him?” Leia asked.

The giant Wookiee studied the array of robot parts. He looked at the princess and shrugged sadly.

“Lando’s got people who can fix him,” Han suggested.

“No, thanks,” Leia shook.

“And how do we know your friend has nothing to do with this?” Marek asked. “For all we know, Lando—”

*BUZZ!*

The group turned as the door slid open, revealing Lando.

“I’m sorry,” Lando apologized. “Am I interrupting anything?”

“Not really,” Leia answered.

“You look absolutely beautiful,” Lando admired. “You truly belong here with us among the clouds.”

“Thank you,” Leia answered coolly.

“Will you join me for a little refreshment?”

Han and Marek looked at Lando suspiciously, but Chewie barked at the mention of food and licked his lips.

“Everyone’s invited, of course,” Lando insisted.

Leia took Lando’s proposed arm, and the group turned to go. Lando spotted 3PO’s remains.

“Having trouble with your droid?” Lando asked.

Han, Leia, and Marek exchanged a quick glance.

“No,” Han shook. “No problem. Why?”

Han and Leia moved arm-in-arm through the door, followed by Lando and Chewie. Galen Marek lagged behind, keeping a special watch on Lando. Eventually, the door slid closed behind them.

<> 

Leia walked between Han and Lando, while Chewie and Marek followed a short distance behind. Long shafts of light poured across the corridor between tall, pure-white columns. Galen Marek, dressed completely dark, clearly stood out in this overly bright environment.

“So you see, since we’re a small operation, we don’t fall into the…” Lando paused, thinking. “Uh… jurisdiction of the Empire.”

“So you’re part of the mining guild then?” Leia inquired.

“No, not actually,” Lando corrected. “Our operation is small enough not to be noticed… which is advantageous for everybody since our customers are anxious to avoid attracting attention to themselves.”

The group walked into another corridor, heading for the huge doorway at the far end.

“Aren’t you afraid the Empire’s going to find out about this little operation?” Marek asked curiously. “If word of this got out, they’d shut you down entirely.”

“That’s always been a danger looming like a shadow over everything we’ve built here,” Lando answered. “But things have developed that will ensure security. I’ve just made a deal that will keep the Empire out of here forever.”

The mighty doors to the dining room slid open and the group entered the dining room. Marek looked ahead and his eyes widened with shock. At the far end of a huge banquet table sat Darth Vader himself. Standing by his side, slightly behind him, were Seraphina, Boba Fett, Grievous, the Dazzlings, and Demitria. 

Faster than the wink of an eye, Han drew his blaster and popped off a couple shots directly at Vader. The Dark Lord quickly rose his hand, deflecting the bolts into one of the side walls, where they explode harmlessly. Marek reached for his lightsaber and attempted to ignite it. But just as quickly, Han’s and Marek’s weapons zipped into Vader’s hands. The evil presence placed the gun on the table in front of him.

“We would be honored if you would join us,” Vader offered.

“We have much to discuss,” Seraphina said sinisterly.

Han gave Lando a mean look.

“I had no choice,” Lando defended. “They arrived right before you did. I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry too,” Han answered, with dread.

The whole time Marek glared across the table where the Sith sat ahead. Specifically he faced Darth Seraphina, unable to read her face but he can feel her staring back at him. 

“Is this who I think it is?” Seraphina asked.

“You didn’t think killing me would be easy, did you?” Marek answered, with a question.

“You know, for a second there… yes, I did.”

“You’ve proven to be a very persistent apprentice, Marek,” Vader spoke.

“Only learned from the best… master.” 

<> 

Luke’s X-wing, along with Storm’s ship, raced through thick clouds toward Cloud City. In his own ship, Luke was grim-faced as he piloted his course toward Bespin’s shining city. R2’s beeps and whistles transmitted onto the scope.

“No, 3PO’s with them,” Luke answered, into commlink.

R2 whistled another worried inquiry.

“Just hang on. We’re almost there.”

Inside Storm’s ship, Twilight Sparkle sat beside Storm Shield who locked his focus on their destination. A look of sheer determination retained on his face, which dropped slightly as he acknowledged Twilight looking at him. His face softened when he saw the worry in her eyes.

“I hope we’re not too late,” Twilight spoke worriedly.

“Don’t worry,” Storm assured. “As long as we work together, we can handle whomever the Empire sends in. We will get our friends back… allof them.”
> Vengeful Reunion
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back in the floating metropolis of Cloudy City, Chewbacca and Marek are forced to share a prison cell. The stark room they are held in was flooded with a hot light. To add to Chewie’s misery, a high-pitched whistle screeched loudly, and Chewie was going mad. He banged the wall with giant fists, as he paced back and forth across the cell floor. Marek groaned in frustration, having had enough of both listening and watching the Wookiee go crazy.

“Stomping around and punching things won’t save us, you know?” He spoke agitated.

Chewbacca growled back at him through his native language, to which Marek had absolutely no idea what he was talking about. He merely assumed he was saying something ‘insulting’.

“If you want to blame anyone for this mess, blame Solo. It’s his stupid blind trust that got us imprisoned in the first place.”

Once again, Chewbacca growled at Marek. This roar much angrier and threatening as though the beast won’t stand for what the Sith was saying about his companion. Marek merely rose his hands in defense.

“Calm yourself beast,” He said. “I’ve no desire to fight you. Don’t get me wrong, even with my lightsabers confiscated, I’d still crush you in my grip.”

The upper lights went off abruptly. Chewbacca rubbed his eyes and moved to a wall, where he listened for a moment. Then, moaning to himself, he moved to a platform where the disassembled pieces of 3PO lie. He picked up the golden droid’s head and meditated on it for a moment, barking a few philosophical remarks. Chewie sticked the robot’s head on its torso and started adjusting wires and circuits. Marek watched with an almost amused look on his face.

“Seems the golden tin can finally fell to pieces,” He chuckled. “Personally, I say it’s a much-needed relief. All his constant prattling would drive a Kath Hound mad.”

Suddenly, the lights in 3PO’s eyes sparked to life as Chewie contacted two connectors together. 3PO immediately began to speak, but his voice was so slow and so low as to be nearly unintelligible.

“Mmm…” 3PO muttered. “Oh, my. Uh, I, uh—Take this off! I, uh, don’t mean to intrude here. I, don’t, no, no, no… Please don’t get up. No!”

Hearing the return of the droid’s frantic voice, Marek groaned and rubbed his temples.

“The silence was good while it lasted.”

Chewie looked at 3PO in bewilderment, then scratched his furry head. He got an idea and started adjusting some connections, whereupon 3PO immediately began to speak normally.

“Stormtroopers? Here? We’re in danger. I must tell the others. Oh, no! I’ve been shot!”

<> 

In another area of the city, Darth Vader and Seraphina strode through a room that could only be qualified as a torture chamber while two stormtroopers prepared an elaborate torture mechanism. Han was strapped to a rack which tilted forward onto the torture device. Seraphina looked on with a twisted smirk under her visor.

“Care to divulge us the whereabouts of Skywalker and his other friends, space scum?” She asked sinisterly.

Though certainly in no position to do so, Han looked over at the Sith woman and gave a light smirk.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about sweetheart,” He answered smugly.

Seraphina’s smirk instantly changed into a sneer, as she eyed the smuggler with a death stare.

“You will tell us what you know,” She growled angrily.

But again, Han merely chuckled. 

“I bet you’re not so bad underneath all those black robes. How’s about ditching the helmet, then we can have a nice chat. What do you say?”

Before Han could utter another remark, his head quickly snapped to the side and his jaw hurt something fierce as Seraphina slugged him right across the face as hard as she could punch. Shaking her gloved hand, the Sith grabbed the hilt of her lightsaber and ignited the blood red blade. Bringing the hot scalding blade to Han’s throat, she was extremely tempted to end his existence… till Vader halted her.

“Stay your hand Seraphina,” He ordered. “Killing the rogue now will serve no end for us if he does not share Skywalker’s location with us. Fortunately, there are… other ways of making him talk.”

Seraphina smirked as she nodded her head and deactivated her saber. Placing it back to her side, she stepped away as Vader activated the mechanism, creating two bursts of sparks, one of which struck Han’s face. The door opened, and the two Sith left the torture room as Han screamed a sharp, piercing cry of agony. They move to the holding chamber, where Lando and Boba Fett waited.

“Lord Vader,” Lando spoke.

“You may take Captain Solo to Jabba the Hutt after I have Skywalker,” Vader informed Fett.

Han’s screams filtered through the torture room door.

“He’s no good to me dead,” Boba Fett responded.

“He will not be permanently damaged,” Vader assured.

“Lord Vader, what about Leia and the Wookiee?” Lando asked, concerned.

“They must never again leave this city,” Vader answered.

“That was never a condition of our agreement, nor was giving Han to this bounty hunter!”

“Perhaps you think you’re being treated unfairly.”

“No…” Lando spoke lowly.

“Good,” Vader approved. “It would be unfortunate if I had to leave a garrison here.

Vader turned and swept into the elevator with Boba Fetta and Seraphina close behind. Lando walked swiftly down another corridor, muttering to himself.

“This deal’s getting worse all the time.”

<> 

Back in the large cell, Chewie now had a little more of 3PO back together. One arm was connected, yet the legs are yet to be attached. There is one small problem, however. It seemed the Wookiee has managed to put the droid’s head on backwards. 

“Oh yes, that’s very good. I like that…” 3PO sighed, realizing. “Oh! Something’s not right because now I can’t see. Wait… WAIT! Oh, my! What have you done? I’m backwards, you stupid furball! Only an overgrown mophead like you would be stupid enough…”

3PO was cut off mid-sentence as Chewie angrily deactivated a circuit and the droid shut down, much to Marek’s relief.

“Finally…” Marek sighed.

Suddenly, the Wookiee smelled something and sat up. The pair turn as the chamber door slides open and a ragged Han Solo was shoved into the room by two stormtroopers. Barking his concern, the huge Wookiee gave Han a big hug. Marek took a close look toward Han, noting he was very pale with dark circles under his eyes.

“Captain Solo,” Marek spoke, concerned. “Are you all right?”

“I feel terrible,” Han moaned.

Chewie and Marek helped Han to a platform before they turned back to the sliding door revealing Princess Leia. She too looked worse for wear as the troopers pushed her into the cell and the door slides closed. She moved toward Han, who lied along the platform, and kneels beside him gently stroking his head.

“Why are they doing this?” Leia questioned.

“The Empire’s taking desperate measures this time,” Marek assumed. “They want your friend so bad and they’re just going to keep torturing us till they have the answers to their questions.”

“They never even asked me any questions,” Han spoke.

The cell door slid open once more, as Lando and two of his guards entered.

“Lando,” Leia frowned.

“Get out of here, Lando!” Han warned.

“Shut up and listen!” Lando spoke, frustrated. “Vader has agreed to turn Leia and Chewie over to me.

“Over to you?” Marek questioned.

“They’ll have to stay here, but at least they’ll be safe.”

“What about Han and Marek?” Leia asked.

“Vader’s giving Han to the bounty hunter,” Lando answered.

“And he’s going to kill me, is he…” Marek assumed, not so much questioned.

“Vader wants us all dead,” Leia clarified.

“He doesn’t want you at all,” Lando countered. “He’s after somebody called Skywalker, and that Seraphina wants someone by the name of ‘Sparkle’.”

“Luke?” Han guessed.

“Twilight?” Marek added.

“They’ve set a trap for them and their friends,” Lando explained.

“But they wouldn’t be going through all this trouble if they didn’t think…” Marek paused, slowly realizing. “They were coming…”

Leia’s mind raced with many emotions.

“And we’re the bait.”

“They’re on their way right now,” Lando informed.

By this point, Han’s rage reached its peak.

“Perfect! You fixed us all pretty good, didn’t you? My friend!”

Han hauled off and punched Lando square in the face. The two friends instantly engaged in a frantic close-quarters fight. The guards hit Han with the butt of their rifles, sending him flying across the room. Chewie growled ands tarted for the guards. They point their laser weapons at the giant Wookiee, till they felt their throats tighten and start gagging while clutching their throats. Marek, his eyes glowing, applied the force choke on them channeling his inner rage. But Lando jumped in and stopped them.

“Stop! I’ve done all I can. I’m sorry I couldn’t do better, but I have my own problems.”

“Yeah, you’re a real hero,” Han replied sarcastically.

“Marek… let them go!” Leia ordered.

But Marek seemed too enraged to listen, as he kept a tight hold on the guards. They started turning pale white under his grip.

“Marek, let them go!” Leia repeated. “Please…”

Finally Marek acknowledged the Princess’s request, all of a sudden starting to see a vision of Sunset Shimmer in her place. His face started to soften and the glow in his eyes began to fade. With a heavy sigh, he released his hold on the guards along them to leave with Lando. Han wiped the blood from his chin, as Marek, Leia, and Chewie helped him up.

“You certainly have a way with people,” Leia replied, dabbing the wound.

<> 

In the meantime, four armor-suited stormtroopers stood at the ready in the large chamber, which was filled with pipes and chemical tanks. In the midst of the room was a round pit housing a hydraulic platform. Darth Vader and Lando stood near the platform.

“This facility is crude, but it should be adequate to freeze Skywalker for his journey to the Emperor,” Vader confirmed.

An Imperial soldier appeared.

“Lord Vader, ships approaching,” The soldier informed. “One of them is X-wing class.”

“Good,” Vader approved. “Monitor Skywalker and his team; allow them to land.”

The soldier bowed and left the chamber.

“Lord Vader, we only use this facility for carbon freezing,” Lando pointed out. “If you put him in there, it might kill him.”

“I do not want the Emperor’s prize damaged. We will test it… on Captain Solo.”

Lando’s face registered with heavy dismay, realizing just what Vader was planning.

<> 

Through the clouds, Luke’s X-wing flew closer toward Cloud City. Encountering no guards on sight, Luke scanned the display panel with concern. Following closely behind the young Skywalker, Storm, Spike, and the girls looked out toward the giant window of the main deck of Storm’s starship and carefully observed the floating city.

“There’s not a single guard on patrol out here,” Rarity observed. 

“It does look a little too easy,” Fluttershy admitted. “It’s like this place is just inviting us in.”

“Oh they’re likely invitin’ us all right…” Applejack nodded. “Fer an ambush.”

“Or… maybe they’re all on break and decided to get together for a cup of coffee?” Pinkie asked hopefully.

“Right… coffee,” Rainbow spoke sarcastically. “At the same time?”

“I’m going to fly us straight for one of the landing pads,” Storm informed. “When we land, get ready for anything. Apart from the obvious, who knows what else is waiting for us?”

“I may have a few ideas…” Twilight assumed.

<> 

Great activity took place within the carbon-freezing platform. Six Ugnaughts frantically prepared the chamber for use and a special coffinlike container was put in place. With Boba Fett in the lead, a squad of six stormtroopers brought Han, Leia, Marek, and Chewie. Strapped to Chewie’s back, with only his head, torso, and one arm assembled was 3PO.

3PO’s head faced the opposite direction from Chewies and the droid constantly twisted around in a vain effort to see what’s happening. His one attached arm was animated and expressive, intermittently pointing, gesturing, and covering his eyes. The remaining pieces of his body are randomly bundled to the Wookie’s back, so his legs and other arm stuck out at odd angles from the pack.

“If only you had attached my legs, I wouldn’t be in this ridiculous position,” 3PO complained. “Now, remember, Chewbacca, you have a responsibility to me, so don’t do anything foolish.”

“What’s going on… buddy?” Han asked angrily.

“You’re being put into carbon freeze,” Lando answered.

“Carbon freezing…” Marek muttered. “I really don’t like the sound of that.”

Boba Fett moved away from the group, approaching Darth Vader himself.

“What if he doesn’t survive?” Boba voiced his concern. “He’s worth a lot to me.”

“The Empire will compensate you if he dies. Put him in!”

Realizing what’s about to happen, Chewie released a wild howl and attacked the stormtroopers surrounding Han. Within seconds, other Imperial reinforcements joined the scuffle, clubbing the giant Wookie with their laser weapons. Marek adds himself into the fray, keeping off several troopers off Chewie. From the instant of Chewie’s first move, 3PO screamed in panic while trying to protect himself with one arm.

“Oh no! No, no, no!” 3PO screamed. “Stop, Chewbacca, stop…!”

The stormtroopers were about to bash the pair square in the face till Han intervened.

“Stop, boys, stop! Do you hear me? Stop!”

“Yes, stop, please!” 3PO begged. “I’m not ready to die!”

Han broke away from his captors. Vader nodded to the guards to let him go, so the pirate can break up the fight.

“Marek! Chewie, this won’t help me. Hey!”

Han gave the pair a stern look, but Marek was more resistant.

“Leave him alone, Vader!” Marek shouted. “Put me in there instead! He’s just another smuggler; I’m more a valuable sacrifice than he is.”

“All the more reason why I’ve determined not to volunteer your services, ‘apprentice’,” Vader replied calmly. “The Empire has very special plans… for you.”

“Save your strength kid,” Han spoke. “There’ll be another time. The princess—you and Chewie have to take care of her. You hear me?”

Marek grunted in frustration; his eyes locked on the empire watching him. But then he turned back toward Leia, eyeing her closely as she looked on with concern. Another reluctant sigh escapes him before he turned back toward Han.

“I will not be responsible for another loss,” Marek spoke softly.

“You won’t…” Han spoke, winking.

The Wookiee wailed a doleful farewell while the guards slipped him into a pair of binders in a flasher. Chewbacca was too distraught to protest. Marek watched silently as Han turned toward Princess Leia, watching as the pair looked sorrowfully at one another. Then Han moved toward her and gave her a final, passionate kiss. Seeing this scene made Marek remember the kiss he shared with Sunset Shimmer, one of the last they shared… before he lost her to the darkness. A single tear escaped from one eye, but he didn’t care.

“I love you!” Leia proclaimed.

“I know,” Han answered.

Tears rolled down Leia’s face as the group were forced to watch the dashing pirate walking toward the hydraulic platform. Han looked one final time toward his friends—and then suddenly, the platform dropped before them. Chewie howled, while Leia turned away in agony, and Marek felt like the only one forcing himself to watch. But then he turned to the side, and he caught Lando wincing in sorrow. It’s as if this scene was leaving a life-changing impression on him.

Instantly, fiery liquid began to pour down in a shower of sparks and fluid as great as any steel furnace. Holding Leia, both Marek and Chewbacca half-turned away from the sight giving 3PO a view of the procedure.

“What… what’s going on?” 3PO asked. “Turn around, Chewbacca, I can’t see.”

“They’re about to encase him in carbonite,” Marek spoke with dread.

“Oh… well, he should be quite well-protected.”

“Yes… if he can survive the freezing process.”

Chewie was in no mood for a technical discussion; he gave the pair an angry glance and barked.

A huge mechanical tong lifted the steaming metal-encased space pirate out from the vat and stood him on the platform. Some Ugnaughts rushed over and pushed the block onto the platform. The group could only stare at what remained of Han, the way his eyes crunched shut, his palms partly out, along with traces of his frame. They could only watch as the creatures slid the coffinlike structure to the block, lifting the metal block itself and placed it inside. They soon attached an electronic box onto the structure and stepped away. Lando knelt down, adjusting some knobs and measured the heat. He shook his head in relief.

“Well, Calrissian, did he survive?” Vader asked.

“Yes, he’s alive,” Lando confirmed. “And in perfect hibernation.”

Vader turned to Boba Fett.

“He’s all your bounty hunter. Reset the chamber for Skywalker.”

“Skywalker and his team just landed, my lord,” The Imperial Officer announced.

“Good. See to it he alone finds his way here. Calrissian, take my apprentice, the princess, and the Wookiee to my ship.”

“You said they’d be left in the city under my supervision!” Lando argued.

“I am altering the deal,” Vader stated, on the contrary. “Pray I don’t alter it any further.”

Lando’s hand instinctively went for his throat as he turned toward Marek, Leia, Chewie, and 3PO. Vader then turned toward Darth Seraphina, who stood quietly the entire time. Seraphina nodded her head, a silent gesture as if answering a mental question.

<> 

Luke Skywalker, R2-D2, and the Equestrians carefully crossed a dessert corridor, when they heard a group of people coming down a side hallway. R2 let out an excited series of beeps and whistles. Luke and Storm glared at the tiny droid, with Storm holding a finger over his lips, and the droid stopped in his tracks with a feeble squeak.

Boba Fett entered from a side hallway, followed by two guards pushing the floating, encased body of Han Solo. Fluttershy slowly leaned out for a better look and gasped in horror. But Rarity quickly grabbed her lips preventing her from screaming… but it’s too late.

Two stormtroopers, following behind, immediately spotted the group and opened fire. Luke quickly drew his weapon and blasted the two troopers before they can get off a second shot. The two guards whisked Han down another hallway as Fett lowered his arm and fired a deadly laser at the group, which exploded to one side and tore up a huge chunk of wall.

“Who the heck is that guy?!” Rainbow shouted.

“Bounty hunter!” Storm grunted, looking out. “Definitely a Mandalorian… very deadly warriors.”

“They’re getting away!” Spike pointed a paw.

The group rushed to a side hallway, but by the time they reached it, Fett, Han, and the guards were gone. A thick metal door blocked the passage before them. They turned only to spot Marek, Leia, Chewie, 3PO, and Lando herded down a second hallway by several stormtroopers.

“Princess Leia!” Twilight shouted.

Leia turned just in time to see Twilight and Luke.

“Twilight!” Leia shouted. “Luke don’t—it’s a trap! It’s a trap!”

Before she could finish, she was pulled through a doorway and disappeared from sight. Luke raced after them, leaving little R2 and the others trailing behind.

“Hey, wait for us!” Pinkie shouted. 

Luke ran into an anteroom and stopped to get his bearings. Unfortunately, Leia and the others are nowhere to be seen. Behind Luke, R2 and the group scooted down the corridor toward the anteroom when suddenly a giant metal door came slamming down, cutting off Luke’s exit. Several more doors clang shut, echoing through the chamber.

R2 and the group stood, with the former’s nose pressed against the giant metal door. He whistled a long sigh of relief and, a little dazed, wandered off in the other direction. Determined, Rainbow Dash drew out her lightsaber ready to activate it when Storm stopped her.

“Save your energy Rainbow,” Storm advised. “We’ll have to find another way to reach Luke. In the meantime, if we hurry, we may find the others on the way.”

“Storm’s right… we can only hope that Luke can meet with us later,” Twilight agreed, facing the door. “Don’t worry Luke! We’ll be with you shortly!”

With that settled, the group traveled down R2’s direction to find another way toward their friends… or Luke… or whichever came first.

<> 

In the meantime, Luke cautiously walked forward amongst the hissing pipes and steam. Seeing an opening above him, he stopped to look up. In doing so, the platform he stood upon began to move. Luke rose into the carbon-freezing chamber, borne by the platform. The room itself was deathly quiet. Very little steam escaped the pipes; no one else seemed to be in the large room. Wearily, Luke walked toward the stairway.

Steam began to build up in the chamber. Looking up through the steam, Luke saw a dark figure standing on a walkway above him. Luke holstered his gun and moved up the stairs to face Vader. He felt confident, eager to engage his mortal enemy.

“The Force is with you, young Skywalker,” Vader spoke. “But you are not a Jedi yet.”

Unfazed, Luke slowly approached Vader and dropped the gun in his holster. He ignited his saber in answer and in an instance Vader’s own sword lit up. Luke lunged, but Vader repelled the blow easily. Again Luke struck, as both swords of the two combatants clashed in battle neither one refusing to back down. A fierce battle ensues between man and machine, Luke doing all he can to hold his own with the more experienced combatant.

<> 

Galen Marek, Leia, Lando, and Chewie, with 3PO on his back, marched along under guard by six stormtroopers. The group reached an intersection where Lobot and a dozen of Lando’s guards stood at attention. The guards immediately aimed their weapons at the startled stormtroopers. Taking the stormtroopers’ weapons from them, Lobot handed one to Leia and one to Lando.

“Well done,” Lando nodded. “Hold them in the security tower—and keep it quiet. Move.”

As Lando’s guards quickly marched the stormtroopers away, Lando began to undo Chewie’s binding.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Leia questioned.

“We’re getting out of here,” Lando declared.

“I knew all along it had to be a mistake,” 3PO sighed with relief.

Chewie turned on Lando and proceeded to choke him.

“You think after everything you’ve done to us, especially to Han, that we’re just going to trust you?” Marek questioned, glaring. “In the Empire, we ‘never’ take kindly to traitors! I know this!”

Lando tried to free himself from Chewie’s tight grip.

“I had no choice…” Lando choked.

To which Chewie barked ferociously, squeezing harder.

“What are you doing?” 3PO argued with Chewie. “Trust him, trust him!”

“Oh, so we understand, don’t we, Chewie?” Leia questioned. “He had no choice.”

“I’m just trying to help…” Lando insisted.

“We don’t need your help!” Marek argued. “I don’t want your help! Every other person I’ve ever turned to, they either ‘died’… or ‘betrayed’ me. Why should you be any different?”

“H-a-a-a…” Lando choked.

“What?”

“It sounds like Han,” 3PO assumed.

“There’s still a chance to save Han…” Lando continued. “I mean, at the East Platform…”

“The East Platform…” Marek repeated. “Then that’s where we’re going!”

“Chewie,” Leia spoke.

On command, Chewie finally released Lando, who fought to get his breath back.

“I’m terribly sorry about all this,” 3PO apologized. “After all, he’s only a Wookiee.”

“We can kiss and make-up later,” Marek replied. “Come on! We’ve got to stop their ship from leaving!”

<> 

The two guards slid Han’s encased body into an opening along the side of the bounty hunter’s ship. Boba Fett climbed aboard from a ladder right next to the cargo hold.

“Put Captain Solo in the cargo hold,” Boba Fett ordered.

With no argument, the door slammed shut. It won’t be long until the bounty hunter was set for takeoff.

<> 

In the meantime, Twilight Sparkle, Storm Shield, and the others quietly snuck their way through the halls of Cloud City. On one hand, they hoped to find another entryway to where they last saw Luke only to find themselves lost in an unfamiliar place. On the other hand, they had no idea if any of the others were okay after seeing them carried off. They knew whichever direction they started for, if they didn’t reach either of them in time who knows what could happen.

“Stay close everyone,” Storm advised. “We don’t want to try rushing into a fight we can’t win. We just need to find our friends, disable the guards, and get off this city as soon as possible.”

“But what about Captain Han?” Applejack asked. “Y’all saw wut they done to him. Who knows where they might be takin’ him?”

“I admit I don’t know any more than you do. But maybe our friends might have some information on where they are taking him. Which is why we’ve got to find them.”

“I say let those Sith Lords try and find us,” Rainbow boasted, confidently. “We’ll take on anyone who gets in our way.”

“Remember what the masters said about being ‘overconfident’,” Storm warned. “I may be the more experienced combatant in this team, but I also acknowledge most of you have had very little time to hone your skills here. Against the more experienced warriors, it’s very unlikely you’ll last long. Just try and leave most of the fighting to me.”

“Oh, I do wish that those other Jedi we met could’ve tagged along with us,” Fluttershy whimpered.

Most of the group nodded in agreement, even though there were reasons to suggest their otherwise notable absence. Trailing behind, Twilight Sparkle searched around the halls looking for a means of finding their friends. Suddenly, something briefly caught her eye and she leaned back, spotting a familiar shade of fiery hair crossing a dark path.

“Sunset?” Twilight thought.

Twilight Sparkle looked back to see the rest still walking ahead down the hall. Twilight soon turned back toward the dark space where she thought she saw someone. Even against her better judgment, the urge to know if Sunset is truly alive was too great to ignore. Determined, Twilight Sparkle slowly crossed her way down the hall with her hand over the lightsaber hilt just in case.

It was only after Twilight Sparkle made her way down the other path when Spike’s senses started to kick in. Feeling something off, Spike turned around only to find that Twilight Sparkle was missing.

“Uh… Twilight?”

<> 

Twilight Sparkle was already farther down the path silently looking around for Sunset Shimmer. Though unwise to traverse down this path alone, Twilight was driven to recover Sunset and hoped that finding her may perhaps lift the weight off her shoulder. Her eyes darted around the dark, but for reasons unknown she couldn’t see another familiar trace of Sunset around. The only other sound was her own footsteps against the floor, as she wandered aimlessly in a seemingly fruitless search. 

Just then, Twilight Sparkle felt a slight chill down her spine, and she stopped. Her eyes slowly turned to the side as she lightly turned behind her… then she took out her lightsaber, the blade ignited, and blocked an oncoming attack from another fiery blade threatening to press against her face. Twilight’s eyes stared fiercely, trying to keep a brave face, as she stood face-to-face with her opponent… the masked Sith warrior, Darth Seraphina.

“Hello… Twilight Sparkle…”
> Twilight vs Seraphina
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As chaos unfolded high in Cloud City, Lando, Leia, Marek, and Chewie ran down through the many corridors of the city. All of a sudden, they spotted R2 rushed toward them, beeping wildly. But the little droid is not alone, as Storm Shield and the other Equestrians (Minus Twilight Sparkle) turned a corner and skid to a halt before the others.

“Princess Leia! Guys!” Fluttershy smiled, with relief. “Oh thank goodness we found you!”

“R2! Master Storm! Girls!” 3PO shouted. “Where have you been?”

“It’s a very long story… 3PO?” Rainbow spoke, confused.

Just then, Chewie turned around toward the stubby droid and the Equestrians, causing 3PO to be spun out of sight from his friends.

“Turn around, you wooly…!” 3PO cried out. “Hurry, hurry! We’re trying to save Han from the bounty hunter!”

“We know!” Rarity cried out. “We just saw them go down one of the halls.”

“C’mon! We’ve got to hurry if we’re going to get Han back!” Storm spoke.

Whistling frantically to 3PO, R2 scooted along with the racing group.

“Well, at least your still in one piece!” 3PO complained. “Look what happened to me!”

“How in tarnation did y’all end up in this state?” Applejack asked.

“Trust me… you don’t want to know,” Marek muttered.

<> 

Eventually, the elevator door slid open as the entire group raced for a large bay overlooking the East Landing Platform.

“There’s the ship!” Storm pointed out.

But just as they arrived, Boba Fett’s ship took off against a cloudy sunset sky.

“They’re getting away!” Rainbow cried out.

In wild anguish, Chewie howled and started firing toward the ship.

“Save your ammo, Chewie!” Marek shouted, looking back. “We’ve got company!”

A laser bolt exploded near the group and they all turned to see what Marek had already spotted emerging from the other direction: An entire squad of stormtroopers running toward them. R2 peeked out from the elevator.

Leia and Chewbacca started firing at the troopers, as Lando, with Fluttershy and Pinkie close behind, made a break for the elevator. Laser bolts continued to explode around the group, but they refused to budge. Marek retaliated with some force lightning towards some of the troopers, sending a fraction of the group flying off and falling through the clouds. Lando and Pinkie Pie stuck their heads out the elevator, as the former motioned for the group to run. But neither the princess, the Wookie, or the rest of the Equestrians even noticed. They seemed possessed, transported, and for one small group all the frustration of captivity and anger of loss poured through their death-dealing weapons. 

Eventually, after a few moments, they finally began to move through the rain of laser fire toward the elevator. The Equestrians were able to block any lasers that threatened to strike, thanks to their newfound lightsabers. Once inside, the doors slammed shut and the stormtroopers raced forward. Storm and the rest of the Equestrian Girls all breathed a sigh of relief now that they were safely out of harm’s way. 

That is… until they finally took notice of just where they were. Standing before them was the combined power of General Grievous, the Inquisitors, and Demitria. All of them had their weapons drawn, ready for a good long fight.

“Out of the frying pan and into the fire,” Storm commented.

In quick fashion, he and the girls all ignited their lightsabers (Some of them ‘re-igniting’) as they prepared themselves for battle.

<> 

Twilight stood completely frozen in shock as she found herself in the paralyzing presence of Darth Seraphina. The masked Sith held her double-bladed lightsaber at the ready, as a battle between the two was about to commence. A slight breeze billowed her cape behind her for additional effect.

“I’ve long awaited this altercation for three years,” Seraphina spoke menacingly. “The day I finally end your miserable existence once and for all. To finally feel your warm blood run cold as it slips through my hands.”

Twilight was completely petrified internally at the sight. Moreover hearing this evil woman spew such hateful, wicked words. Never before had Twilight ever known such hatred and anger in her entire life, not even from all the other menacing beasts she faced prior.

“I don’t understand,” Twilight spoke. “You say you’ve waited years to kill me and my friends. What did any of us ever do to you? What did Iever do to you?”

Seraphina released an evil chuckle, as she took another step toward Twilight Sparkle. The Princess of Friendship in turn stepped back keeping her eyes on the menacing Sith.

“That right there has always been your greatest flaw Princess,” Seraphina pointed out. “You tackle dangerous and terrifying enemies daily, save countless worlds, even fool yourself into thinking you are anything but a novice. Yet the one thing you can never do… is realize the wrongs you’ve done unto others.”

Seraphina swung her lightsaber in a circle a few times before grasping it in both hands.

“And I never said anything about killing ‘your friends’,” Seraphina corrected. “Just… you.”

Twilight shakily held her lightsaber, the lavender purple blade glowing toward the Sith. In an instant, their blades clashed. The blows Seraphina delivered were powerful enough that only a few would’ve reduced the entire area to ruins. It was honestly a miracle Twilight managed to block many of them with the little training she received. Seraphina soon used the power of the force to push Twilight against a nearby wall. She proceeded to place Twilight in a force choke, as the latter tried to pry herself of the invisible grip upon her neck. This of course only intensified the choking sensation.

“You may hold a lightsaber now Sparkle,” Seraphina spt. “But that does not make you a warrior.”

Twilight desperately darted her eyes around seeking something to help her out of this situation. Catching sight of a few crates behind Seraphina, she could almost hear the voices of Master Yoda and Grandmaster Satele Shan in her head.

<> 

“Use the force, you must,” Yoda instructed.

“Trust in the force,” Satele added. “Allow it to flow through you…”

<> 

Twilight reached deep within herself and concentrate on what needed to be done. Little by little, the crates slowly and silently lifted off the ground. Then in the blink of an eye, they soared with great speed towards Seraphina. The Sith sensed the incoming crates and released Twilight from her force grip to leap over the incoming crates that smashed hard into the wall. Twilight used this instance to regain her breathing as she coughed, sputtered, and fell to one knee. She rubbed he throat desperately as Seraphina landed gracefully before her once again chuckling in amusement.

“I see you’ve learned to use the force,” She spoke. “A cute little trick you just used, but it won’t get you anywhere. Unlike you, I’ve had years of training and experience. There is nothing you can conjure that I can’t throw back tenfold.”

Seraphina grasped the hilt of her saber with both hands, twisting it until it clicked. As if Twilight didn’t think it could possibly get much worse, Seraphina pulled the dual saber apart so now she was holding ‘two’ twin Sith sabers. Now… this had gotten much harder.

<> 

Meanwhile, Luke and Vader were locked in combat along the platform overlooking the chamber. Their lightsabers clashed, as the platform below their feet swayed to-and-fro. Luke aggressively drove Vader back, force Vader to apply some defensive tactics.

“You have learned much, young one,” Vader spoke, impressed.

“You’ll find I’m full of surprises,” Luke replied.

Vader made two quick moves, hooking Luke’s sword out of his hand and sent it flying. Another lightning move at Luke’s feet forced the young to jump back to protect himself. Losing his balance, Luke rolled down the stairs to the circular carbon-freezing platform. He sprawled along the floor, surprised and shaken. Just in time he looked up toward Vader, who flew right at him like a giant black bird. Luke rolled away as Vader made his landing. Crouching, Luke kept his gaze steadily on his enemy.

“Your destiny lies with me, Skywalker,” Vader spoke. “Obi-Wan knew this to be true.”

“No!” Luke shouted, in defiance.

Behind Luke, the hydraulic elevator cover had opened noiselessly. All the while, Luke slowly and cautiously moved back, away from the Dark Lord.

Suddenly, Vader attacked so forcefully Luke lost his balance and fell back into the opening. There was a rumble, and in an instant freezing steam rose to obscure Vader’s vision. Vader turned aside, deactivating his sword.

“All too easy,” Vader said. “Perhaps you are not as strong as the Emperor thought.”

Through the steam behind Vader, something blurred upward as liquid metal began to pour into the pit. Vader turned around—and then looked up. He saw Luke, who leapt fifteen feet straight up and now hung from some hoses along the carbonite outlet.

“Impressive…” Vader admired. “Most impressive.”

Luke jumped down to the platform where he was separated from Vader by the steaming carbonite pit. He rose his hand and his sword, which had fallen on another part of the platform, swiftly jumped into his outstretched hand and was instantly ignited. Vader immediately lit his sword as well.

“Obi-Wan has taught you well,” Vader continued. “You have controlled your fear… now release your anger.”

But Luke was more cautious, controlling his anger. He began to retreat as Vader goaded him on. As he assumed a defensive stance, he realized he had been foolhardy. A quick sword exchange and Luke forced Vader back. Another exchange commenced, and as Vader retreated it was Luke’s turn to press forward.

“Only your hatred can destroy me,” Vader spoke.

Breathing hard, Luke jumped into the air and turned into a somersault over Vader. He landed upon the floor, slashing at Vader while the room continued to fill up with steam. Vader retreated before Luke’s skillful sword, blocking every swing only to lose his balance and fall into the outer rim of pipes.

The energy Luke used to stop Vader had brought him to the brink of collapse. Luke moved toward the edge and peered down only to find no sign of Vader. He then deactivated his sword, hooked it upon his belt, and lowered himself into the pit.

Moving through a tunnel-like entrance, Luke cautiously approached the reactor room. He ignited his sword, moving into the room, and toward a large window… as Vader entered.

Luke raised his sword, moving forward to attack. Behind Luke, a large piece of machinery detached itself from the wall and came smashing forward toward his back. Luke turned and sliced it in half just as another machine hurtled toward him. Using the Force, Luke managed to deflect it and sent it flying as if it had hit an invisible shield.

A large pipe detached itself, flying toward Luke, who managed to deflect it. Spark-shot wires pulled out from the wall and whipped toward the youth. Small tools and equipment flew at him, bombardment from all sides. Luke did his best to deflect everything, but soon he was bloodied, battered, and bruised. Finally, one machine glanced off him and flew toward the large window. A fierce wind blew into the room, and Vader just stood, an unmoving, dark, rocklike figure staring toward Luke.

Staring as a piece of machinery finally struck Luke and knocked him out of the window. He fell onto the gantry, rolling, and hung over the edge, holding his deactivated sword in hand. He put the sword along his belt and scrambled up.

<> 

Moving through the darkly corridor, Twilight Sparkle kicked the Sith Woman heavily in the stomach. Darth Seraphina fell onto the ground, the air knocked out of her lungs. Twilight drew her Lightsaber toward Seraphina, the light emanating a heavy glow along her visor.

“Stand down,” Twilight demanded. 

But Seraphina was quick to respond, using the other half of her own Lightsaber to draw away from Twilight’s blade. She picked herself upon her feet and proceeded to fight the alicorn Padawan, now with only one working blade. Sparks exploded with each contact the blades made, Twilight Sparkle switching to the defense with Seraphina on the offense. A fierce battle between two warriors, a fight neither one aims to lose. Everything to gain from this one confrontation, and everything to lose all at the same time.

<> 

In the meantime, Storm Shield and the Equestria girls stood at the ready. Their weapons drawn in preparation to fight the evil syndicate standing across from them. Grievous was the first of the side of evil to step forward, his four sabers drawn for battle.

“I got this one,” Storm spoke, stepping forward. “This is personal.”

The young Jedi prince stepped forward till he and the psychotic cyborg General stood mere inches from one another. Grievous towered over Storm, yet the Jedi Master showed neither fear nor nerves. Only intense concentration on display, as if the young man had been waiting for this moment all his life.

“Your efforts against me are a fool’s errand, Jedi scum,” Grievous growled. “I shall make quick work of you, just as I did those witches of Dathomir. Especially the one you fell for… Khaleena.”

Hearing the name made Storm’s eyes widen before they turned into a venomous scowl. Screaming out, Storm charged full speed towards Grievous. The brave Jedi jabbed forward, disrupting Grievous’ shield, but also drawing the Jedi in close. Grievous swung all four blades with quick precision, knocking Storm back as the Jedi barely blocked the attacks. Grievous spun his torso at incredible speeds, his blades appearing as one blur and green blur. Storm jumped over Grievous, narrowly escaping the funnel of death. But soon as he landed, Grievous merely turned around still spinning his arms rapidly.

“Could really go for an evil monologue about now!” Storm suggested hopefully.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make a speech… for your corpse!”

Grievous shot forward, all four blades extended to a point in the shape of a drill. He began spinning once again, only this time he was running.

“Not good…” Storm muttered.

Storm stuck his saber right into the center, halting the rotation of Grievous. But in doing so, it sent him flying like a spiraling javelin. The Jedi slammed against the ground below, causing him to clutch onto his injured back. Grievous leapt down and hacked downward, but Storm flipped backwards onto his feet and out of harm’s way. He jumped forward toward the general, whose defenses were down, and swung at his head. 

But just in the nick of time, Grievous bent back, avoiding decapitation, but losing most of his left antenna plate. Storm rolled forward, dodging Grievous’ backward stabs attempts, and hopped along his feet. Grievous sprung to a stand as well, entering a new saber stance. He raised two arms over his head in stabbing positions, the two others in defensive formations.

“I have all but barely begun to fight,” Grievous spoke. “While you are limited to one style at a time, I can use two!”

“Well… you’ll need it, Grievous!” Storm declared. “Because now… I’m not holding back!”

A brief image of hundreds of clone troopers stood around Storm Shield, like a blast from the past. But in the present, Grievous showed little concern as he waited for Storm to make his move. In the meantime, the Equestria Girls attempted to come to Storm’s defense, only for The Sisters and Demetria to stand before them, two of the sisters and Demetria were armed while only one sister merely held her fists.

“What’s a matter Sister?” Rainbow beckoned, twirling her blade. “Not good with a light-saber?”

“I won’t need a lightsaber to defeat you…” The Sister growled. “Never needed one…”

And the Inquisitors, along with Demetria, charged toward the Equestria Girls who shouted battle cries as they charged ahead, and another fierce battle was set to commence between the two groups.

<> 

While our heroes kept the syndicate busy, Marek, Leia, Lando, Chewie, and the droids rounded a corner and headed for the door to the landing platform. They caught a glimpse of the Millennium Falcon for a moment before the door slammed shut. The group ducked into an alcove, as stormtroopers arrived at the end of the corridor. The troopers sent a rain of laser bolts at the group. Chewie returned their fire, while Lando punched desperately toward the door’s control panel.

“The security codes has been changed!” Lando muttered.

“R2, you can tell the computer to override the security system,” 3PO advised.

With a beep, R2-D2 scooted toward a computer socket on the control panel. Lando, meanwhile, connected with the panel’s intercom.

“Attention! This is Lando Calrissian,” Lando announced. “The Empire has taken control of the city. I advise everyone to leave before more Imperial troops arrive.”

R2 took off a computer cover and stuck his computer arm into the socket. Suddenly, a short beep turned into a wild scream. R2’s circuits lit up, his head spun wildly, and smoke began to seep out underneath him. Quickly, Chewie and Marek pulled him away.

“That’s not a terminal, it’s a socket!” Marek observed. “Is there ‘any’ other way out of this city?”

“This way!” Lando pointed.

Together the group flee down the corridor. As he scooted along with them, R2 sent some angry beeps 3PO’s way.

“Don’t blame me! I’m an interpreter,” 3PO argued. “I’m not supposed to know a power socket from a computer terminal.”

In the meantime, all the residents of Cloud City are in a panic. The entire population attempts to get out of the city. Some carried around boxes, while others dragged packages along. Whichever way they ran, some changed directions just as quickly. While the few shot at invading stormtroopers, others simply tried to hide. Cloud City itself was a mess.

Other stormtroopers pursued the group consisting of Marek, Lando, Leia, and Chewie. They fired back with whatever weapons they had. R2 worked on another door to the landing platform, while 3PO berated him for his seeming ineptitude.

“What are you talking about?” 3PO argued. “We’re not interested in the hyperdrive on the Millennium Falcon. It’s fixed!”

“Will somebody just open the stupid door!!!” Marek shouted, freaking out.

Chewie, Leia, and Lando retreated along the corridor. One triumphant beep from R2 and the door snapped open.

“I never doubted you for a second,” 3PO replied. “Wonderful!”

“You both need to get a room,” Marek muttered. “But right now, we got to get on that ship and pick up the rest of our crew!”

R2 laid a cloud fog, obscuring everything, as the group dashed outside. And they made a bolt for the Millennium Falcon, as a battalion of stormtroopers reached the main door. Lando and Leia held off the troops, as the droids got on board with Chewie and Marek. As Chewie bounded for the ship, with 3PO upon his back, the droid hit his head on the top of the ramp.

“Ouch! Oh! Ah!” 3PO cried out. “That hurt. Bend down, you thoughtless… ow!”

That time it was Galen Marek who purposely flicked a finger toward the droid’s forehead, anything to get him to shut up.

“Whoops…”

Eventually, Chewie started up the ship. The giant engines began to whine, as Lando and Leia raced up the ramp under a hail of laser fire.

“Leia! Go!” Lando shouted.

Inside the Millennium Falcon, R2 dragged the partially assembled 3PO down the corridor.

“I thought that hairy beast and that brooding teen would be the end of me,” 3PO complained. “Of course I’ve looked better.”

R2 beeped understandingly. Chewie worked the controls, as Leia sat in Han’s seat. Lando and Marek watched over their shoulders as Chewie pulled back on the throttle. Eventually, the Millennium Falcon itself began to move and lift gracefully into the twilight sky. Roaring away from the city, while troops fired after it and TIE fighters took off in pursuit.

<> 

Luke moved along the railing and up toward the control room. The young man barely got very far down the dark shaft when Vader lunged at him. Luke immediately raised his lit sword to meet Vader’s spark flew in the midst of their duel, with Vader gradually forcing Luke backward toward the gantry.

“You are beaten,” Vader declared. “It is useless to resist. Don’t let yourself be destroyed as Obi-Wan did.”

Luke answered by rolling sideways, thrusting his sword at Vader so viciously he nicked Vader against the shoulder. The black armor sparked with smoke and Vader seemed to be hurt. Still, the Sith immediately recovered and laid out the offense. Luke backed off along the narrow end of the gantry as Vader came at him, slashing at the young Jedi with his sword. Luke made a quick move around the instrument complex attached to the end of the gantry itself. Vader’s sword slashed down, cutting the complex loose. It began to fall before it was caught by the rising wind and blown upward.

Luke glanced at the instrument complex floating away during their duel. In an instant, Vader’s sword stuck across Luke’s right forearm, cutting off his hand and sent his sword flying. In great pain, Luke squeezed his forearm under his left armpit and moved back along the gantry to its extreme end. Vader followed, while the wind subsided, and Luke could barely hang on. By this point, there was nowhere for him to go.

“There is no escape,” Vader spoke. “Don’t make me destroy you. You do not yet realize your importance. You have only begun to discover your power. Join me and I will complete your training. With our combined strength, we can end this destructive conflict and bring order to the galaxy.”

“I’ll never join you!” Luke spat.

“If you only knew the power of the dark side. Obi-Wan never told you what happened to your father.”

“He told me enough! It was you who killed him!”

“No. I… am your father.”

Shocked beyond any measure of words, Luke stared toward Vader in utter disbelief. The armored Sith warrior, a mechanized weapon of mass destruction, proclaiming himself to Luke that he was his father. It was more for him to bear.

“No… no…” Luke frowned, in denial. “That’s not true! That’s impossible!”

“Search your feelings,” Vader spoke. “You know it to be true.”

And Luke found himself in the midst of his feelings, and the poor man found himself completely overwhelmed. He could feel ‘everything’ around him. Sorrow… anger… suffering… pain… all human emotions. As if all the stories, everything that he was initially told about the proud man Luke known him to be… all of it a folly.

“NO!” Luke screamed. “No!!! No!”

“Luke… you can destroy the Emperor,” Vader continued. “He has foreseen this; it is your destiny. Join me, and together we can rule the galaxy as father and son. Come with me. It is the only way.”

And to prove to himself how serious his offer was, Vader put away his own lightsaber. And he held out his hand toward Luke, beckoning him to join him in hopes that the young man will embrace his destiny.

A calmness swept over Luke, as if he already made his decision. In the next instant, he stepped off the gantry platform into space. The Dark Lord looked over the platform, watching Luke fall far below. The wind began to blow at Vader’s cape, the torrent finally forcing him back, away from the edge. The wind soon faded, while the wounded Jedi plummeted fast, unable to grab onto anything to break his fall.

<> 

Another battle took place with Twilight Sparkle finally holding her own against Seraphina. After a lengthy period of time, the Princess and the Sith were evenly matched slashing lightsabers against one another yet neither gaining the upper-hand. In that time, Twilight finally gained a better use of the force as if rediscovering her lost magic since coming to this realm. Finally finding herself on the offense, Twilight Sparkle delivered her own series of rapid strikes against Seraphina. Despite Seraphina’s experience skill and discipline, even the Sith herself found herself on the ropes searching for a weak point in Twilight’s tactic.

Just as Seraphina finally managed a swing, Twilight Sparkle quickly ducked and delivered a well-placed shot of her magic right in Seraphina’s face. The force was so strong it knocked her visor right off her head as the Sith crashed upon the ground. She hit the surface so hard her hood fell over her head. Twilight looked down upon the fallen Sith, aiming her lightsaber toward her back.

“It’s over Seraphina,” Twilight declared. “You’ve lost.”

Seraphina slowly started to make her way back to her feet. Along the way, her hood fell off from her head. Twilight’s eyes went wide when she noticed a very familiar shade of fiery red and golden hair falling down the otherwise black cloak.

“Sunset?!” Twilight gasped. 

Seraphina slowly turned around to the point where Twilight could see her face. The lavender alicorn girl held her hand to her mouth, staring in horror. Sure enough, she stared upon the face of Sunset Shimmer, except she was no longer the same girl she once knew. Her eyes were now solid blood red eyes; dark veins ran along her neck and around her eyes. Any amount of the old Sunset didn’t seem to exist anymore. Instead, only a shell of pure hatred and evil stared upon the stunned girl, as tears poured from her eyes.

“Sunset… you’re alive…” Twilight spoke quietly. “But Marek… he said…”

Seraphina growled before Twilight could finish, gritting her teeth in rage. She used the emotion within to conjure as much Force lightning as possible. Releasing an almighty scream, she hurled the lightning toward Twilight and the force was so great it pushed Twilight through the wall of the room, and she crashed hard into another. Twilight collapsed to the ground, now completely out cold and barely alive.

Seraphina emerged from the gigantic hole in the wall, staring down upon the crumbled form of Twilight Sparkle. She was so tempted to end her miserable existence then and there, holding her lightsaber over Twilight’s limp form. Quickly she rose the blade high in the air, finally ready to finish what she started…

“TWILIGHT!!!!!”

Suddenly, Darth Seraphina found herself flying to the side by a great force out of nowhere. The Sith fell to her knees, dropping her lightsaber upon the ground which rolled along the ground. Before Seraphina could turn and recover, a tiny figure suddenly leapt along the wall and pushed itself off and slammed headfirst against Seraphina’s face knocking her backward. Seraphina quickly recovered and used the force to retrieve her lightsaber, re-igniting her blade. But the moment she looked ahead, she stood there silent and still.

There, standing in defense of the unconscious alicorn princess, a tiny purple-and-green dog stood and growled fiercely. Spike, Twilight Sparkle’s ever faithful assistant, having followed Twilight’s trail the moment she disappeared. And here he was, discovering his friend in danger and without thinking somehow used the force within himself to send the rival Sith back. Instincts took over the young dog, whether he knew that the Sith was Sunset or not. All that mattered at this point was his friend’s safety.

Naturally, as impressive as Spike’s skill was, Seraphina was still the powerful one and could easily break the little dog in two if need be… which made it all the more odd when instead she turned off her lightsaber and placed it back along the belt. As she picked herself back upon her feet, she placed the hood back over her head. And slowly, she stalked off as Spike kept his eyes upon the Sith. She paused for a moment, barely glancing to the side so only her jawline could be seen.

“Congratulations…” Seraphina spoke, softly.

And just like that… Darth Seraphina disappeared into the distance leaving Spike alone as he turned toward his fallen friend, the girl groaning in pain. Muttering a single word as Spike leaned toward her.

“Sunset… Sunset…” Twilight spoke weakly. “Sunset…”
> The Return
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Deep within the recesses of her rapidly darkening mind, Sunset Shimmer grew more worried with each passing day. The longer she spent trapped in the confines of her own head, the darker her personality became. Thankfully, due to the aid of Satele Shan, Darth Marr, and Valora Synn, the former Sith Emperor had been silent since their last meeting. She still remembered the confrontation with the centuries old Sith before the Jedi Master Valora intervened. And since that time, all had been quiet thus far.

However, things rapidly grew concerning for Sunset as she had witnessed events transpiring in the outside world before her. She’d seen the recent battle between Twilight and herself. Honestly, it scared her. While she was trapped mentally, her body quickly became heavily tainted by the darkness. Unless she could escape, before too long, she’d surely be consumed by her own rage. All of this went through her head, as Sunset continued training with Valora in lightsaber training all while Satele and Marr quietly observed.

The Jedi Master kept the pressure on with rapid strikes that had defeated many foes during her time in the galaxy. Thankfully, due to all the training Sunset had received, the fiery-haired teen was able to block them all and deliver her own wave of powerful strikes in return. Valora then delivered a powerful force push but Sunset used her momentum to redirect the force to propel herself into the air and hovered over Valora. Coming back down, the two once again engaged in fierce combat.

“A most impressive display,” Marr commented to Satele.

“I can hope that soon enough she’ll be strong enough to finally escape this imprisonment,” Satele spoke worriedly. “If not, I fear for what will become of her.”

As Valora and Sunset kept going back and forth, something strange began to happen. All of a sudden, the ground below them shook with a heavy tremor. As it did so, Sunset groaned in pain as she clutched her chest, which now felt as though it were on fire. She collapsed upon the ground, and the two Jedi masters and even the Sith Lord rushed to her side.

“What’s happening to me?” Sunset groaned in pain.

“Seems your body has embraced enough power from the dark side, that now it’s beginning to affect you here,” Satele answered. “I hoped we’d have more time to continue your training but seems we haven’t much time left.”

Once Sunset was finally able to regain a better feeling, pulling herself to her feet, she looked upon Satele with not a hint of an idea as to what she meant.

“What are you talking about master?”

Satele, Marr, and Valora all looked at each other in acknowledgement, before looking back toward her.

“You must destroy the Sith Emperor once and for all,” Satele told her.

This caused Sunset Shimmer’s eyes to widen, with both shock and somewhat fear.

“I-I-I’m not ready for that yet!” Sunset said, uncertainly. “All the times I’ve confronted him in the past, he’s either gotten into my head or proved to be ‘way’ too powerful for me to handle!”

“The Emperor has long since been a plague on this galaxy for thousands of years,” Marr stated. “However, long ago, the Dark Council and I made a crucial discovery. An ancient prophecy stating that a young Jedi from another galaxy would arrive in our world, fall victim to the dark side of the force, and eventually rise up to strike him down. I took this knowledge forth into death, as I searched the galaxy for the one who would fulfill this prophecy.”

“And… you really think I’m the one destined to put down the Emperor?” Sunset asked, uncertainly.

“You must be…”

All at once, Sunset Shimmer quickly turned around toward the source of the mysterious new voice. The rest followed her gaze as a figure emerged from the dark and approached the group. A mysterious being, resembling a human in terms of features, the body covered in armor and a cape hiding a trace of their identity. And yet the voice alone confirmed it was indeed a man, even with the mask covering the face entirely.

“Revan…” Marr spoke. “What news brings you here?”

“It is just as I have feared would happen,” Revan. “With each passing second, the inevitable moment we have long dreaded is slowly coming to life even as we speak.”

“What do you mean?” Sunset asked. “Just what’s going to happen?”

The masked figure, Revan by name, turned toward Sunset Shimmer, who can barely determine the impression with the mask. But somehow she can sense something emanating within him, something dark and foreboding.

“Unless you fulfill your destiny and free yourself of the chains that bind you now,” Revan warned. “It will not be long until ‘he’ returns…”

“Who?” Sunset asked, fearfully.

<> 

Back in the sub level of Cloud City, the battles continued to ensue. Storm Shield held his own against the likes of General Grievous, while the other Elements fought the Inquisitors and Demetria. Currently, Rainbow Dash and Applejack double-teamed the attacking Third Sister. Suffice to say, the Inquisitor managed to hold her own against two Jedi. Applejack swung her lightsaber high, while Rainbow swung low. Both of which the Third Sister easily avoided. The Inquisitor force pushed Applejack far across the room before blocking another incoming attack from Rainbow’s double-blade.

“Looks like you still haven’t learned anything from the last time we squared off,” The Third Sister mocked.

“Is that right?” Rainbow asked. “Then explain to me how I can do this!”

Rainbow shot her hand out, wrenching it back which used the force to grip the Inquisitor and yank her in her direction. She swung her blade in a chopping motion, to which the Sister barely managed to block with her lightsaber. Seeing an opportunity, Rainbow swept her legs out and knocked the Sister off her feet. Rainbow flipped herself over and pinned the Inquisitor toward the ground, holding her blade to her neck.

“How’s that for not learning anything?” Rainbow asked smugly.

But the Inquisitor merely chuckled darkly. 

“Impressive,” She said sarcastically. “Shame you haven’t learned to master your surroundings.”

“Huh?”

Before anything else could be said, the Sister monkey-flipped Rainbow into the air and she was smashed in the face by a flying spinning heel kick from the Fourth Sister. Rainbow Dash screamed before she found herself flying toward the wall, crashing face-first. Rainbow fell back against the floor, her eyes spinning as the Fourth Sister landed on her feet and stood over her.

“You were never one for brains…” The Fourth Sister spoke.

Suddenly, the Fourth Sister heard a yell and quickly turned with a block catching Applejack’s foot just before her powerful legs could strike her side. And yet her kicks were still strong enough to skid the Fourth Sister back. And yet the Inquisitor still held her ground, glaring toward the country girl who held her lightsaber out while getting her feet back in place. Without another word, the two proceed to battle it out to the death, with the Fourth Sister dodging Applejack’s lightsaber swings and kicks.

Rainbow Dash recovered long enough to watch the fight between the two. The Fourth Sister angling about till she could land a blow with her arms or legs, while Applejack used her lightsaber swinging and missing her target. Even the Third Sister joined in for a moment to watch the fight between the two.

“I love that woman…” Rainbow Dash sighed, dizzily.

“She totally pegs you, doesn’t she?” The Third Sister remarked.

“… I don’t know what that means…”

Meanwhile, Rarity and the Fifth Sister duel it out like this bout were more of a fencing match between the two. Sparks flying as their lightsabers contact one another. A battle of grace and style between two essentially equal competitors. They swing their blades with their left hand, Rarity on the offense while the Fifth Sister is on the defense. 

“You are wonderful!” The Fifth Sister remarked.

“Thank you!” Rarity replied politely. “I worked hard to become so!”

“I admit you’re better than I thought you would be.”

“You’re tone says otherwise. Care to share?”

“Ooh… probably because I know something you don’t.”

“And what is that?”

“I am not left-handed!” The Fifth Sister replied.

The Fifth Sister quickly switched hands mid-block and soon started swinging her lightsaber with her right hand. Now she was pressing forward on the attack, as Rarity found herself trying to keep her defense up as best as she could. 

“You are amazing, darling,” Rarity complimented.

“I ought to be if I’m to serve as an Inquisitor,” The Fifth Sister replied.

“Though, if you kindly permit me so. I have something I have to confess.”

“Tell me quick; we have appointments for later.”

“… I’m not left-handed either!”

Rarity shoved the Fifth Sister away from her long enough to switch hands, swinging her lightsaber so effortlessly before the Fifth Sister. Without the mask, she would’ve exposed a look of surprise toward an opponent she’d have deemed inferior to her skills. Nonetheless, the battle commences between the two.

While along another part of the room, Demetria loomed around stalking towards Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. The two girls nervously held their lightsabers up while the Sith before them was analyzing her next move. Waving her lightsaber around, a fierce glare gazing toward the pair. 

“Um, listen… Demetria, was it?” Fluttershy spoke nervously. “I understand you feel you must fight for your master. But we’re begging you… walk away from all of this.”

For a moment, Demetria suddenly broke out in a laugh while the two hold their guard over this sudden uncharacteristic development. But as quickly as it came, her face resumed its merciless exterior.

“You call that begging?” Demetria asked coldly. “You can beg better than that.”

“Huh… didn’t work with that other woman either,” Pinkie chuckled nervously.

Suddenly, Demetria zoomed toward the girls and the pair were barely able to duck or block any of her attacks, yelping out with surprise. Demetria proved to be a formidable adversary, violently slashing her lightsaber about trying to land an opening upon the pair. Despite any attempts from Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie to land a blow, they had underestimated the skill and precision of this one Sith lord. A woman who was fighting as if she weren’t a rookie, like she’d been training to fight her entire life. But the way she fought… she was fighting to ‘kill’ and these two knew that.

The room around them flashed with lights from every angle, as the Equestrians and the Sith attempted to bring one another to their knees. Shouts and cries dissolved any form of silence in the room, as a battle between evenly matched opponents took place. But eventually, after a lengthy fight, the Equestrians found themselves piled together in the center and even Rainbow Dash was hurled into the group through the force. They found themselves surrounded by Grievous, Demetria, and the Inquisitors all with their lightsabers pointed.

“I must admit… you and your friends have fought boldly, Storm Shield,” Grievous admitted. “But the fun and games are over. Now at last, prepare to rejoin all of your fallen friends… like the failure you always have.”

“Better I died fighting a losing battle than living as a coward,” Storm glared.

“For Decades, I’ve wanted to shut that mouth of yours. At last… my time is upon me!”

Grievous aimed to swing with all his arms, as the group raised their lightsabers in preparation. But just as Grievous lunged out… his arms suddenly stopped. Confused, he looked around all his arms, but it felt like some great force was preventing him from moving. Even when the Inquisitors or Demetria tried to lash out, they found themselves unable to move. Forcing their heads to turn, their eyes widen with surprise.

Emerging toward them, walking slowly, a glowing figure approached the group. Twilight Sparkle, her eyes dead shot yet seemingly screaming with rage slowly walked toward the room. The Equestrians looked on with shock seeing their friend, with her a cautious Spike following closely. All around her a purple aura swirled, as tears streamed from her eyes and her teeth clenched. Finally, when she could no longer hold it in… Twilight released a terrible scream!!!

Twilight’s scream was so loud, the Sith were propelled backward and flung against the wall by a explosive force. The Equestrians had to cover their ears while Twilight unleashed every raw emotion flowing out of her. Rage and despair, after a sudden realization as to what happened prior. The Sith barely recovered in time but saw that they were facing a force unlike any they expected. Silently, they turned to the other and quickly made their retreat while everyone was distracted.

Finally, Twilight’s yell died down as she crumbled down to her knees… and by the time the group looked up they saw that she was sobbing heavily, crying in anguish. Spike slowly made his way toward Twilight, who’s eyes caught sight of him, and she picked him up in her arms hugging him. The rest of the group made their way toward Twilight Sparkle, gathering around their friend. Storm was the last to approach, staring down at her sympathetically.

“Twilight…” Storm spoke.

“She’s alive, Storm…” Twilight stammered, mid-sob. “Sunset’s alive…”

“What?!” Rainbow shouted.

“She’s become one of them… she’s become one of them…”

The group looked toward one another and for a moment they didn’t know what to think. Sunset Shimmer, the long-lost friend they had sought after for years, only to discover she’s become a Sith. And if Twilight Sparkle had run into her, the fact Twilight lived to tell the tale of it all… there was so many questions. And then it suddenly dawned on Storm Shield.

“Luke!” Storm realized. 

<> 

Luke Skywalker fell further and further toward the seemingly endless voice, until he was sucked straight into an exhaust pipe along the side of the shaft. The moment Darth Vader saw this, he turned and hurried off the platform. Luke tumbled through the exhaust pipe, sliding along the end of the slickly polished pipe. He stopped as his feet hit the circular grill, which knocked open. Despite Luke’s attempt to claw at the surface of the pip, trying to keep from sliding out into space, he tumbled out and emerged at the undermost part of Cloud City.

Reaching out desperately, he managed to grab onto the electronic weathervane looking down at the endless sea of clouds in a Dusk-filled sky. He tried to climb his way back through the grill, trying to make his way back inside the pipes. Unfortunately, the grill automatically shield before him and now the one-armed Jedi found himself clinging on for dear life.

“Ben… Ben, please!” Luke begged. 

But any attempt for Luke to reach out to Ben Kenobi a.k.a. Obi-Wan were met in vain, as the young man found himself truly alone along the weathervane. He tried to pry himself up along but kept slipping back down. He hooked one of his legs around the fragile instruments. All the while, a powerful current of air rushed out at him from the exhaust pipe itself.

“Storm… Twilight… Leia!”

An ominous cracking sound emerged along the base of the weathervane, as a piece broke off. Luke looked on as the very piece flew into the clouds far below. Time was not on Skywalker’s side, and he needed to act fast. Reaching out with his mind, he branched out with as much of the force within him hoping to reach someone.

“Hear me!” Luke called out. “Leia!”

<> 

Princess Leia stood in the Millennium Falcon, as if she were lost in a sea of fog. Galen Marek turned toward the Princess, seeing the troubled expression on her face. Meanwhile, Chewie was busily operating the ship with Lando standing next to the Wookiee. But while they were checking the readout on the control panel, suddenly Marek felt something too and his face started to frown as if his head was pulsating.

“Luke…” Leia spoke. “We’ve got to go back.”

Chewie growled in surprise.

“What?” Lando called out.

“I know where Luke is!” Leia answered.

“The Princess is right!” Marek spoke. “Turn the ship around!”

“But what about those fighters?” Lando pointed out.

Chewie barked in agreement with Lando.

“I won’t leave any more allies behind!” Marek barked. “Just do it!”

“But what about Vader?” Lando added.

Chewie turned on Lando, the newcomer, with an ominous growl.

“All right, all right, all right.” 

Soon enough, the Falcon made a graceful banking turn back toward Cloud City. The crew could only hope that if what Leia and Marek said were true, that their friend was in trouble and needed help, that they weren’t too late.

<> 

In the meantime, Darth Vader entered the landing platform of Cloud City. He watched as the speck that was the Falcon disappeared. The wind blew at his cape. He turned as Grievous, the Inquisitors, Demetria, and Seraphina, now without her mask, stood be the Dark Lord along the entrance to the platform.

“The Jedi scum have gotten away!” The Third Sister sighed.

If Vader can sense that the group weren’t telling the whole story, or at least the one speaking for the group, he had no time for a confrontation.

“Bring my shuttle!” Vader ordered.

<> 

Nearly unconscious, Luke Skywalker hung upside-down along the weathervane. His body shifted along with the wind as he struggled to stay away. Around the bottom of Cloud City, the Falcon dove toward the underside. Three TIE fighters closed in on the starship. 

But just before any of the ships could act, laser bolts streamed from nowhere and blasted the ships into bits. Storm’s ship cruised along through the clouds, their cannons smoking from the laser-fire. At the helm, Storm piloted the ship with a fierce gleam of determination while the rest of the Equestrians huddled close to the Prince of Peace.

Inside the Millennium Falcon, Princess Leia tried to remain calm as Lando and Chewie positioned the ship.

“Look, someone’s up there!” Lando pointed, out the cockpit window.

“It’s Luke!” Storm spoke, through the intercom. “He’s hurt badly!”

“Chewie, slow down!” Leia ordered. “Storm, we’re going to get under him. Lando, open the top hatch.”

Without argument, Lando rushed out of the cockpit following Leia’s orders with obedience. 

In the meantime, Luke hung by one arm from the crossbar of the weathervane. He briefly slipped from the bar and barely grabbed onto the pole of the vane, as the Falcon banked toward him. The Falcon positioned itself under Luke, as Lando moved up through the opening of the hatch. Luke began to slide, till finally he fell from the vane into space.

“LUKE!!!” The Equestrian Heroes cried out.

From the Falcon’s cockpit window, Leisa saw Luke falling from the bottom of the city. The ship gained speed toward him.

“Okay… Easy, Chewie!” Leia instructed.

The Falcon closed in on Luke, as three more TIE fighters raced forward and fired away. Eventually, the hatch popped open with a hiss of pressure. Lando reached out to help the battered warrior inside the ship. Flak burst all around as the Falcon banked away from the city, with Storm’s ship following close behind. Leia and Chewie struggled with the controls.

“Lando?” Leia spoke, through the intercom.

“Okay, let’s go!” Lando answered.

The Falcon and Storm’s vessel raced away, closely followed by three TIE fighters. All of which kept heavy laser assault on the fleeing starships. Explosions erupt around the Falcon’s cockpit, buffeting the ship wildly. Chewie howled as he frantically tried to control the ship. Leia and Chewie turned to see Luke, bloody and battered, entering the cockpit supported by Lando. Leia jumped up and hugged him, while Chewie barked in joyous relief.

“Oh, Leia…” Luke sighed.

“All right, Chewie,” Lando spoke. “Let’s go.”

Leia proceeded to help Luke from the cockpit as another huge blast rocked the ship. The ships, still followed by the three TIE fighters, raced away from the cloud-covered city. Luke laid to rest on a cot, his injured arm wrapped in a protective cuff. Marek stood close by as Leia gently wiped his face. The ship lurched again signaling the fact they were not out of the woods just yet.

“I’ll be back,” Leia promised Luke. “Galen, please keep watch over him.”

“Understood,” Marek nodded.

Leia kissed Luke before leaving the quarters. Marek leaned beside Luke, seeing that the stump where his arm used to be. A frown formed upon his face knowing that this was indeed the Sith’s work.

All over the ship, muted alarm buzzers bellowed. Lando anxiously watched the flashing lights on the control panel, hurriedly adjusting some switches. Seated next to him, Chewie pointed out a new blip appearing on the panel. Leia, watching over their shoulders, recognized the shape.

“Star Destroyer…” Leia confirmed, with dread.

“All right, Chewie. Ready for light-speed,” Lando instructed.

“If your people fixed the hyperdrive,” Leia pointed out.

Another explosion rocked the ship, reminding her there was no time for an argument.

“All coordinates are set on our end,” Storm spoke, through intercom. “It’s now or never.”

Chewie barked in agreement, while the green light on the panel flashed on.

“Punch it!” Lando shouted.

The Wookie shrugged and pulled back the light-speed throttle. The sound of the ion engine changed… it was winding up. Faces are tense, expectant. Except nothing happened, and the engine went off. Chewie released a frustrated howl as flak violently rocked the ship.

“What’s going on?!” Rainbow shouted, through the intercom. “We can’t take off without you!”

“They told me they fixed it!” Lando spoke, in frustration. “I trusted them to fix it. It’s not my fault!”

Chewie got up from his chair and started out the cockpit. He gave Lando an angry shove, as he stormed past him.

<> 

In the distance, the TIE fighters continued their chase, still firing lasers. Vader’s Star Destroyer moved behind them, determinedly following the ships. Vader stood on the bridge looking out the window, as Admiral Piett approached him.

“They’ll be in range of our tractor beam in moments, my lord,” Piett informed. 

“Did your men deactivate the hyperdrive on the Millennium Falcon?” Vader asked.

“Yes, my lord.”

“Good. Prepare the boarding party and set your weapons for stun.”

“Yes, my lord.”

<> 

Beeping while he worked, R2 busily connected some wires to 3PO, who now had one leg attached. Chewie entered through the doorway, grunting to himself.

“Noisy brute,” 3PO muttered. “Why don’t we just go into light-speed?”

R2 beeped in response.

“We can’t? How would you know the hyperdrive is deactivated?”

R2-D2 whistled knowingly.

“The city’s central computer told you?” 3PO translated. “R2-D2, you know better than to trust a strange computer. Ouch! Pay attention to what you’re doing!”

In the meantime, Chewie was in the pit trying to loosen something with an enormous wrench. Frustrated, he used the wrench like a club and hit the panel. Leia and Lando, seated in front of the control panel, were suddenly sprayed by a shower of sparks.

<> 

In the Star Destroyer, Vader stood along the bridge, watching as the ships were pursued by the TIE fighters. As his destroyer drew nearer, Vader’s breathing grew slightly faster.

“Luke…” Vader spoke.

In the sleeping quarters, Luke seemed to realize Vader’s ship was drawing nearer. He felt resigned to his fate. He senses that he was beaten, more emotionally than physically. But he was not alone, Galen Marek could feel the presence of the Dark Lord drawing closer.

“Father…” Luke spoke.

“Son, come with me…”

“Luke… don’t listen to him!” Marek warned. “You can’t let him get to you”!

“Ben…” Luke moaned. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Tell you what?” Marek asked. “Luke… what did he say to you?”

Back in the cockpit, Lando and Leia were still at the controls of the Falcon. Meanwhile, in the ship’s hold, Chewie continued to work frantically on the hyperdrive mechanism.

“Chewie!” Lando shouted, through the intercom.

In darkest space, the two ships raced through the starry skies followed very closely by the TIE fighters and the huge Imperial Star Destroyer. In the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon, Luke entered the cockpit alongside Marek and together they looked out the window. The one-armed boy was almost unconscious with pain and depression.

“It’s Vader…” Luke confirmed.

“Luke… it is your destiny.”

“Ben, why didn’t you tell me?”

“Alert all commands!” Piett ordered from the bridge. “Ready for the tractor beam.”

R2-D2 raced to a control panel and started working on a circuit board. Furious, 3PO stood on one leg, yelling.

“R2, come back at once!” 3PO shouted. “You haven’t finished with me yet! You don’t know how to fix the hyperdrive. Chewbacca can do it. I’m standing here in pieces, and you’re having delusions of grandeur!”

“SHUT UP!!!” Marek shouted, from the pit.

R2 moved a circuit on the control panel. All of a sudden, the panel lit up and soon Leia and Lando were thrown into their seats as the Millennium Falcon unexpectedly shot into hyperspace. As the ship tilted up, R2 toppled into the pit on top of Chewie.

“Oh, you did it!” 3PO cheered.

<> 

From inside the cockpit of Storm’s ship, they could see the Falcon preparing to enter hyperspace.

“Hang on girls!” Storm shouted, pulling the throttle. “It’s going to be a bumpy ride!”

Soon the two ships soared into infinity, away from the huge Star Destroyer which seemed, by contrast, to stand still. Inside, Admiral Piett and another captain glanced at Vader in terror. He turned slowly and walked off the bridge, his hands help behind his back in a contemplative gesture. Not knowing what Vader was bound to do next was scarier than what the crew would expect of him.

<> 

Later…

The Millennium Falcon was attached to a huge Rebel cruiser by a docking tube. Rebel fighters moved about the giant cruiser, and a Rebel transport ship hovered near the fleet. Lando sat in the pilot’s seat, talking through the commlink. Chewie busily threw a variety of switches in preparation for takeoff. 

“Luke, we’re ready for takeoff,” Lando informed, through commlink. 

“Good luck, Lando,” Luke answered, through commlink.

“When we find Jabba the Hutt and that bounty hunter, we’ll contact you.”

<> 

Luke spoke through the commlink, as a medical droid worked on his hand. Leia stood near him, while 3PO and R2-D2 looked out the window.

“I’ll meet you at the rendezvous point on Tatooine,” Luke informed, through commlink.

“Princess, we’ll find Han. I promise.”

“Chewie, I’ll be waiting for your signal,” Luke added, through commlink.

Chewie’s wail came over from the commlink in the Falcon.

“Take care, you two. May the Force be with you.”

<> 

In the meantime, along another part of the Medical Center, Storm Shield did his best to nurse his wounded shoulder following his altercation with Grievous. As he felt the shooting pains stabbing his shoulder, he found himself wondering how he allowed himself to become so vulnerable. He’d made a mistake, momentarily lost control of his emotions, and almost gotten himself killed. It seemed Grievous knew how to manipulate his mind, even after all this time since the Clone Wars.

The sound of the doors to his room sliding open caused him to look up and none other than Twilight Sparkle herself entered. The Princess’s eyes almost immediately went wide when she saw Storm, completely shirtless with his shoulder wrapped in gauze. It wasn’t so much the injury that caused the reaction, for her it was the sight of his toned muscles and abs that drew her attention..

“Enjoying the view?” Storm jested.

“Uh huh…” Twilight nodded dozily.

“Really?”

It was then some sense finally returned to Twilight, who rapidly shook her head to clear it.

“Um—I mean—I don’t know what you’re talking about,” She stumbled nervously. “I was just coming to check on you and I got distracted by your—rippling muscles. I mean injury—I was distracted by your injury.”

Twilight’s face flushed red with embarrassment, as she tried desperately to hide her face behind her hand. Storm just chuckled in amusement over her obvious flustering. It was then another shooting pain shot through his shoulder making him cringe. Twilight instantly rushed to his side to check on him. 

“Are you okay?” She asked worriedly.

“Yeah, I’m good,” Storm grunted. “Grievous certainly hasn’t lost his touch since the Clone Wars. If anything, he’s only gotten better.”

Thinking about what he had just said, Twilight’s gaze went from concern to curiosity.

“Speaking of that,” Twilight began. “You never explained much of your time here during the war.”

Once again, Storm was quick in his attempt to sway her from the topic.

“Like I said, it’s not really a time that—”

“Storm… please!” Twilight begged. “I only just learned my best friend has been manipulated into an evil Sith tyrant who wants to kill me! I could really use something to take my mind off that for a moment… please.”

Storm gazed into Twilight’s eyes, clearly seeing the hurt in her eyes still. The recent revelation that Darth Seraphina had actually been Sunset Shimmer all along still haunted her. When Starkiller told them all Sunset was gone, he was certainly right. She may not be gone in body, but in mind and soul. Her kind-hearted nature had instead been corrupted by the Emperor and she now was at his complete disposal. He sighed to himself, deciding to tell her.

“Years ago, when I first came here, I was thrust into the chaotic time in the galaxy,” Storm explained. “I was a young child at the time, with no knowledge of the world beyond my own. That’s when I had the good graces to meet Master Yoda. He was much younger back then, feuding with an ancient Sith known as Darth Bane. Before Bane, the Sith were plentiful but there was constant power struggles and infighting amongst each other. Bane created the Rule of Two, which stated there could only ever be two Sith present at a time, a master and an apprentice.”

Twilight listened intently as Storm spun his tale.

“Master Yoda saw something in me and offered to teach me the ways of the force. I was hesitant at first, but I knew as the Prince of Peace I owed it to the galaxy to bring ‘peace’ to it. For the next few hundred years, I trained strictly under the watchful eye of Master Yoda. Then came the time of the Clone Wars.”

“Rainbow Dash told me Grievous mentioned someone named Khaleena during your first,” Twilight said. “Who was that?”

Hearing the name, Storm hung his head in sadness.

“During my time in the Clone Wars, I was tasked by the Jedi Council to travel to the hostile planet of Dathomir to form a peace agreement with the witches of the planet known as the Night Sisters. Many of them were against the idea and actually tried to kill me… except one. The only one who saw my vision of peace, a young witch at the time yet wise beyond her years. We forged a friendship and soon enough it quickly turned… personal.” 

Storm used his magic to conjure a holo-projector. Pushing a button, it produced an image of a young pale woman in red robes, adorned in strange markings. Despite her bizarre appearance. She was still quite a beautiful young woman.



Twilight gazed upon the holo-image, then over to Storm, who looked at it with great sadness.

“You two must’ve been very close,” Twilight said solemnly.

“Closer than I ever imagined we’d be,” Storm nodded. “The Jedi forbid any sort of romantic relations, seeing these emotions could be used against us. To easily tempt us into darkness. Yet whenever I was with Khaleena, it didn’t matter. I’d have broken the council’s rules time and time again, even leave the Jedi Order, just for her. I had never felt that way about any pony… or ‘anyone’ till I met her.”

Storm switched the projector off, as a tear rolled down his face.

“Grievous soon arrived on Dathomir, slaughtering the Night Sisters one-by-one. When I received the report, I made haste for the planet as fast as my ship could take me. But it was far too late. I landed after Grievous, and the remaining Separatists departed the planet. All I found was a landscape littered with the dead… including Khaleena.” 

Twilight noticed a few more stray tears falling down Storm’s face; she placed a comforting hand along his good shoulder.

“Oh Storm, I’m so sorry…” She said sympathetically. “I can’t imagine how hard that must’ve been for you.”

“After months of tracking, Obi-Wan and I had finally cornered Grievous on Utapau. Finally, we brought him down after a grueling fight. I thought I found closure after the loss of Khaleena… then it happened.”

“What happened?” Twilight asked.

“Order 66…”

<> 



“We were betrayed by those who swore to fight alongside the Jedi,” Storm recalled. “But it was not of their own freewill. We discovered too late that a top secret order was programmed into our clone trooper army, an order that deems the Jedi traitors to the Galactic Republic, and ergo, subject to summary execution by the Grand Army. Obi-Wan, Yoda, and I barely survived the execution, but we lost so many Jedi Generals…

“Ki-Adi-Mundi… Aayla Secura… Plo Koon… Stass Allie… all great warriors, betrayed by a ‘contingency order’ against renegade jedi… but it was all a means for the Sith to bring about the long-awaited fall of the Jedi Order. Not even the younglings were safe, not from the Clones… and not from the man who ultimately turned on us… Anakin Skywalker…”

<> 

“The few who survived the initial execution either went into hiding… or were soon corrupted into the Empire’s service,” Storm concluded sadly. “Sunset Shimmer happened to face the unfortunate fate of becoming a Sith, even when she wasn’t a Jedi from the start…”

“Back in Equestria, we faced several conflicts between the thousands of years of our existence,” Twilight spoke quietly. “But that pales to everything you’ve told us…”

<> 

“So it’s all true…” Applejack told Galen. “Sunset Shimmer has become one of the Sith.”

Galen Marek nodded silently and reluctantly, as he sat cross-legged in the center of a room surrounded by the rest of the girls. They were all taking in the news of Sunset’s true fate, most of which horror and despair. They’ve known that this Sunset had become evil once before. Only this time now, she’s become something far more dangerous. And now she was out to get them, mostly Twilight… a friend who barely survived.

“All this time I had thought—” Rarity spoke reluctantly. “Oh, what was I thinking? To believe that Sunset Shimmer was destroyed, I was assuming you were lying to us…”

“I never ‘lied’ about Sunset Shimmer,” Galen spoke quietly. “I only said the Sunset you knew was ‘gone’, I never once said she died…”

“The sad thing is that Marek is right…” Pinkie sighed, her hair deflated. “It’s like that Anon-A-Miss story she told us all about, only now she’s really driven to destroy people…”

“And I never truly got to apologize to her…” Marek sighed. “About one of the last things we talked about…”

<> 

Sunset Shimmer was still a prisoner of the Emperor at the time. But every so often when she wasn’t facing grueling torture or mind games, whenever Starkiller spared some time to heal her of her wounds and ensured that she’d eat, they’d get together when the Emperor was busy. They’d have some brief time to talk, learning a bit about one another. Then came one of their more recent conversations…

“Marek… I’ve been thinking…” Sunset spoke.

“About what?” Marek asked.

“… Looking back, before coming here, I’ve wondered exactly what I’m meant to be. What I should do with my life.”

“And?”

“I think I’ve figured it out…”

“What is it?”

“… I want to be a Jedi Master.”

“… What?”

“You heard me… I want to become a Jedi Master!” Sunset spoke. “I’m obviously very good with magic, which is kind of like the Force, and I always wondered how I’d be as those impressive lightsaber duelists. Somehow, I feel… like this is my calling. To harness the light side of the Force, and together… we could defeat the Empire. We can be teachers together, helping those to master the Force for good. Maybe open up a school for Padawans—”

“That’s absolutely out of the question!” Marek denied.

“What do you mean?” Sunset asked.

“Sunset, do you even know the history of the Jedi Order and their lifelong conflict with the Sith? Have you forgotten it was Luke Skywalker’s father, a former Jedi Knight, who became a Sith, a puppet for the Emperor… AND BRAINWASHING ME INTO KILLING JEDI?!”

“Well yeah, but… I know you’re not a puppet. You came to your senses—”

“You’re missing the point! Being a Jedi Master takes responsibility! The stress, the stress… the war! There’s no way they’d ever let someone like you become a Jedi Master! Not if you refuse to serve the Emperor!”

“I’m not asking for permission!” Sunset stood her ground. “I want to become a Jedi Master!”

“The Emperor is THIS CLOSE to corrupting you Sunset! I can’t afford to lose you now… you’d be much safer back in Equestria—”

“And do what? Wait around, while you deal with the Empire… letting ‘you’ risk your own hide?”

“It’s not… Sunset, try to understand. You’re a great person, but the life of a Jedi is no way to live… I’ve been there! I fully intend to return you to your friends, go back to your home in Equestria, and we can just leave fighting to me…”

“But you won’t win without me! I’ve endured enough of their tortures, and if what you say is true, I’m becoming one of them. But at least I’ve gotten to know their tricks, inside-out. You need me, Marek!”

“I’m not losing a girl to the Empire!”

“That’s all I am to you?” Sunset asked, hurt. “Just ‘a girl’… wow, I thought someone like you would believe in me. Maybe I was wrong about you… you are just another puppet.”

“Sunset…”

“JUST STOP PRETENDING TO BE MY FRIEND!!!” Sunset shouted, turning toward a corner.

<> 

“I was never pretending with her…” Marek spoke sadly. “I really did care about her… and now I’ve truly lost her to the darkness.”

“Isn’t there ‘any’ way we can get Sunset to come to her senses?” Fluttershy asked hopefully. 

“She serves the Emperor as his fury,” Marek answered. “Once you are under the Emperor’s thumb, the odds of being free are a million to one…”

<> 

“Her fate is much worse than Marek’s,” Storm informed Twilight. “As powerful as Vader may be, he is still as much a servant to the Emperor as the Sith who still live.”

“But I don’t want to have to fight her,” Twilight said. “There must be a way we can resolve this peacefully.”

“Our friend is all but broken by this point… in the end, we can only do so much for her now…”

<> 

“But just suppose…” Rarity implored. “If the Magic of Friendship still resides somewhere within Sunset Shimmer, I see no reason why we can’t encourage her to reconsider.”

“You speak of fantasies,” Marek argued. “There is no logical sense for someone’s who’s gone from that much pain to—”

“Just suppose!” Rarity insisted.

“… I want to be able to help Sunset,” Marek sighed heavily. “I really want to do what I can to help. But I can’t make any promises to either of you…”

<> 

“I don’t know ‘how’ we’re going to do it,” Storm spoke. “I don’t know ‘what’ it will take. The chances of convincing Sunset to come back to us would be the same as convincing Luke’s father to betray the Empire.”

“But… there’s ‘still’ a chance, isn’t there?” Twilight asked hopefully.

“I hope there is Twilight…” Storm sighed. “Mark my words: I won’t fail your friend as I did with Khaleena. We will get her back… and then we’re going back to Equestria where we belong.”

<> 

Following a lengthy procedure, Luke Skywalker looked down upon his hand. A metalized type of bandage had wrapped around his wrist as it turned out he was granted a robotic implant as a substitute for his missing hand. The medical droid made some adjustments in a tiny electronic unit, then pricked each of Luke’s fingers to ensure he has a working limb.

“Ow!” Luke muttered.

Luke wriggled his fingers, then made a fist, and relaxed it. His new hand was completely functional. Soon he got up and walked toward Leia. There was a new bond between them, a new understanding. Leia thinking about Han; Luke thinking of his uncertain, newly complicated future. Together, they stood at a large window of the medical center looking out toward the Rebel Star Cruiser and a dense, luminous galaxy swirling in space.

Joining amongst the pair, Twilight Sparkle and Storm Shield made their way toward the window. Twilight right beside Storm’s one shoulder that wasn’t hurt. Spike pedaled alongside his two friends, looking out toward the horizon as determined as a number one assistant could be. Their other friends soon joined up with them, one by one, until the Equestrians were all together. 

For a moment, Rainbow Dash looked back and saw Galen Marek just leaning along the wall with his arms folded, briefly looking down before turning his mournful gaze toward the group. They looked at each other for a moment, then Rainbow beckoned him forward with a head motion and a small smile. Hesitant at first, Marek slowly made his way toward the group feeling welcome amongst them for the very first time.

Luke places his arms around Leia. The droids stood beside the whole group, and 3PO moved closer to R2, even putting an arm on him. Together, they watched as the Millennium Falcon moved into view, made a turn, and zoomed away into deepest, darkest space. And while they stood together, looking out the window of the star cruiser, two escort fighters joined the larger ship. And soon, the cruiser turned and moved away into space toward an uncertain future, where ahead new battles were waiting for them.

And while Twilight and the others had no idea what was in store for them, one thing was utterly certain: They may have lost a few battles… but they will not lose the war.

<> 

On the planet Coruscant, within the twisted confines of the Imperial Palace, Emperor Palpatine sat atop his throne. The evil tyrant stroked his wrinkled chin in contemplation as he considered the next course of action. It had already been a severe blow to the Republic, with the capture of Han Solo. But he knew it would not be enough to stop them entirely. The son of Vader was still alive, along with his ‘meddlesome’ companions. Should they return to Dagobah, to complete the tutelage under Master Yoda, they could very well pose a serious threat to his power.

His thoughts were interrupted when the doors to the throne room opened. Darth Seraphina, along with her syndicate, entered battered and bruised from their battle high in the clouds. Still, they walked away ‘slightly’ more victorious than their foes. Coming to a halt at the foot of the throne, they bent their knees before the Emperor, who chuckled as he stood to his feet.

“I trust the incursion to Cloud City was a successful endeavor?”

Seraphina stood to her feet, drawing her hood off her head to reveal her face.

“Indeed Master,” Seraphina nodded. “Solo’s on transport to Tatooine as we speak; our agents have taken control of the city.”

“And what of the son of Vader.”

“I am unsure master. From what I’ve heard from Vader, he had fallen down a shaft beneath the city. However, we could not sense his death.”

Palpatine smirked wickedly at the response.

“Then our plans continue as expected,” He declared. “Now that he’s learned the truth, it shall plant a seed of doubt within his mind. If we bend him to the dark side, all hope for the rebellion is lost.”

Then Palpatine looked deeply into Seraphina’s eyes, which he could see were boiling with anger.

“What of Twilight Sparkle, my apprentice?” He asked. “You stand before me without your mask. Which begs the question to the progress of your vengeance.”

Seraphina gritted her teeth, growling at the very thought that Twilight Sparkle got away. Not only that, but also the moment where her former self gained an ounce of control once more. Thankfully, she regained herself and locked the girl back deep into the confines of her mind.

“The girl continues to live and breathe… ‘for now’,” She explained. “However, I feel this could fuel my revenge and her sorrow only that much more. The fact she’s seen my face now will eat away at her further. It will make her weak, I promise you.”

Palpatine nodded in satisfaction, as he stepped from his throne and stood before his apprentice.

“Worry not my apprentice,” He assured. “Soon enough, your vengeance will come.”

He then looked back toward the rest of the group, with a knowing look that made them curious as to his thoughts.

“The Empire has won a small victory today, seizing the city and capturing Solo,” He announced. “Yet this is not enough to squander the rebellion by any means. In fact, it only makes their resolve much stronger. In order for the Empire to gain control of the galaxy, the rebellion must be crushed. Thankfully, due to your efforts on Korriban, we now have the ultimate means of defeating them.”

This caused the group to face the tyrannical ruler with confusion.

“What do you mean my lord?” Demitria asked.

The Emperor gave no response, but instead started his way from the throne room. The group followed closely as Palpatine lead them through the twisted passageways beneath the palace. Eventually, they came to a hidden chamber where a block of carbonite stood in the center, hooked upon a strange machine. Palpatine stepped up beside the machine, activating a code which caused the carbon to slowly dissolve. Everyone watched in fascination as a figure slowly slipped out from the prison. For the Inquisitors in particular, the figure was ‘very’ familiar.

“How is this possible?” The Fifth Sister asked.

“I remember him…” The Fourth agreed. “That can’t be though. He died thousands of years ago…”

“It would seem not,” The Third said, amazed.

With the process fully complete, a figure fell from the block of carbon and slowly rose to their feet. He wore old Sith armor that clearly came from the time of the Old Republic. He had certainly aged, which was noted by the silvery white hair sitting atop his head. Though he certainly changed, there was no denying his presence. Palpatine stood back, cackling sinisterly.

“Welcome back… Darth Andromedis.”



The End