Topic: The Clone Wars: Knightfall -- Raid of the Jedi Temple Mod 5/22/15 CONCLUDED

[TheIRISH Rogue]

Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Knightfall

"The Republic stands battered by the turmoil of war. The height of the conflict has passed with the failed Separatist plunge against the capital system, Coruscant. The CIS forces are faltering, the Clone army surges fourth in every direction, the Senate remains locked, and Chancellor Palpatine's power grows limitless.

The influence of the Jedi has become even more transparent whilst the war wanes. Their numbers spread thin. The order exists on the brink of annihilation. Lesser skilled Jedi are pushed into battle. The costs grow. The populace has lost faith in the Jedi to restore order.

Even now as clone troopers comb through the damaged planet, hunting isolated pockets of stranded CIS droids, a number of cruisers bring detachments of the 501st back to Coruscant under direct orders. The planet is eerily silent. For the first time in the conflict the Jedi see a light through the cloudy haze..

The vale of the darkside has fallen… "


A cooling breeze lightly whistles against the shattered glass of Chancellor Palpatine’s dim office. The frame scorched grey and black from the recent electricity unleashed upon the Jedi Master, Mace Windu. The effort to arrest the dark chancellor has failed, setting in motion events the Sith master has been meditating on for years. Grinning shrilly, Palpatine set aside the façade he previously maintained in front of Anakin Skywalker since his childhood. Within moments of Anakin’s murder of Windu, he finds himself completely abandoning his sacred duties, kneeling to the dark lord whom he had been hunting for years. In a state of panic and desperation to save the woman he loves, Anakin’s fall to the dark side is only just beginning..

Darth Vader, the newly anointed apprentice stood before the chancellor’s desk, his master cloaked in raven robes turned to face him. Glowing, fiery eyes of hatred pierced from the depths of Sidious’ hood, “First I want you to go to the Jedi Temple..” Showing little surprise, Vader’s eyes met his masters; his silence already accepting words yet to be spoken. Lord Sidious’ grumbling voice continued with the orders many Sith had fantasized for centuries, “You will catch them off balance. Do what must be done Lord Vader. Do not hesitate and show no mercy!” Suddenly his master’s voice softened to a mere whisper, “only then will you be strong enough with the darkside to save Padme..”

A deep bellowing whir of Venator-class Star Destroyers, as they would come be known, became audible. From empty space they descended from their secret holding patterns above the planet. The initial cruiser of the trio had already begun offloading troopers when Lord Vader departed the chancellor’s office. The others utilized LAAT gunships that whizzed downward to drop their squads into formation. Night enveloped the city lit skyline. Traffic and street activity could not nearly be described as normal. All seemed eerily silent after the Separatist attack on the governing sectors; some blocks still smoldering, bleeding thick smoke from their inner layers. Vader’s Jedi interceptor hissed passed the docks of gathering troopers. The cockpit latches snapped as they disengaged, springing the upper windows open. “Atten- tion!” barked a clone trooper near the newly arrived craft. The clone clad in the blue of the 501st saluted and quickly stepped to the side of his General. “Sir, we are ready and awaiting your orders!”

With a slight grin, Vader recognized the blue markings and familiar white arrow outline that adorned the troopers helmet. “Commander Appo, have your men ready up and begin to secure the surrounding blocks of the Jedi temple. No one…No one is to go in or out. Tell me, What’s our tactical strength?” Commander Appo lifted his helmet rolling it beneath his arm, “General, we have been tasked with two full regiments a third is in reserve, and the original regiment is being re-armed after their last assignment.” Vader nodded, such strength would be needed to deal a decisive stroke to the order. With a moment of worriment, the general paused his quick pace.. “Captain Rex…what’s his status?” As if to understand the dark lord’s cause for concern, Appo raised his hand outstretched in a motion to harden Vader’s resolve for the task at hand, “The captain, Torrent company, and the majority of the 1st regiment are recovering from their last mission. I know Rex would be at your side if he wasn’t injured sir. He is the most loyal trooper in the GAR. “No matter the cost, preserve the Republic”..Those are the orders.”

Nodding, Vader’s face hardened. His gaze became opaque, emotionless..cold, “You’re right. That’s good commander.. Have the gunships lock down a perimeter out of sight. We will be approaching on foot. No tanks are necessary. Form up on me. Block off and have the main force approach in parade formation. Dismissed..” The clone trooper briskly saluted, his helmet pivoting between his fingers while he spun it atop of his tightly groomed hair. The trooper jogged to head the legion and raised his comlink, tapping the green button, his eyes watched Vader pace forward walking down a long narrow drive. About 200 meters ahead, the robed fallen Jedi raised his gloved, mechanical hand and motioned forward.

“Silently lads, forward! We have our orders: “Execute order 66.” March!”

Stepping off, the regiments began their hushed march towards the temple. Their boots echoed from building to building. The sheer number of troopers steadily marching forward created an ominous clatter. Vader alone, at the front of the column turned the next corner in a direct lane towards the Jedi temple. His hands reached up towards his shoulders, his fingers clasped the cusp of his hood. In a quick motion his hood rose above his hair, darkening his face beneath its cover.

Anakin Skywalker stood before the gates of the temple. Border security was fairly minimal due to the optimized safety protocols instituted during the Clone Wars. Mostly guard duty fell to various remote droids and a handful of sensitive Jedi. Many knights were deployed on the front during the current wide reaching campaign against the Separatists..This campaign is thought by all to be the coup de gras and it is…

Master Jurokk was patrolling the grounds. He approached the main entrance and realized it was Anakin Skywalker and rushed towards him while he stepped up the stairs. “Anakin, Anakin, what happened? Where are the Masters?” Jurokk was aware that Masters Windu, Fisto, Saesee Tiin, and Agen Kolar,  composed the arresting team sent to subdue Chancellor Palpatine after the defeat of General Grievous. During their leave he did what was possible to keep order under the command of Shaak Ti. Anakin without inflection inquired, “Where is Shaak Ti?” Jurokk looked at Skywalker as he strode beside him, answering..his insides churning as the negative reverberations within the force riveted his senses, “In the meditation chambers- we felt something happen in the Force, something awful. She’s search the force in deep meditation, trying to get some feel for what’s going on…Something has happened, hasn’t it?” The Jedi Master’s eye caught a gleam of white armor. Looking behind he saw clone troopers ascending the stairs in marching order.

The white of his eyes grew as he saw not a squad, but rank after rank of clone troopers. His hand lightly touched the back of Skywalker’s arm, “..Something horrible…How bad is it -?” His breathing was near panicked, his face still turned towards the growing sea of blue and white armored soldiers. Anakin’s hand rose from beneath his thick brown robes holding his lightsaber, “You have no idea…” Jurokk’s face turned towards Skywalker without noticing the hilt being held beneath his chin – Click – the familiar whir of the saber igniting could be heard for only an instant – Click – as quickly as it had extended, the blue blade quickly collapsed back into the hilt. There was no redemption now as Skywalker fell deeper into the darkness. The Gate Master lay slain, the first casualty of the Temple raid.

No alarms sounded – Massed troopers stayed in large rectangular formations, climbing, in step, up the countless stairs. A handful of newly promoted ARC troopers accompanied the regiment, interspersed with their brothers. Six Jedi stood sparring within courtyard before the echelon’s path. Their blades bursting with color as they clashed together then dissipated when dodging and pushing one another. Recognizing the 501st stripes and the Jedi at the front they rushed towards Anakin deactivating the sabers in their grips. “Master Skywalker, welcome back!” one shouted, another, “I just saw the holo of the CIS flagship crash you did..WOW was that your best landing of a Seppie cruiser yet Master!!” They closed in on the hooded figure, noticing a change in Skywalker’s typical cavalier attitude, something wasn’t quite right, “Master Skywa… Urkk..ACK..HMPH” the speaking Jedi was raised from her feet…choking..

“That is no longer my name..” Vader’s voice spoke lifelessly from beneath the hood addressing the female. His pointer finger and thumb touched as if to squeeze the life from the choking knight. A sudden popping crack of the spine left the Jedi limp in the air..her saber clattered to the floor. The remaining five were caught in complete shock. They watched their friend’s body lifelessly fall towards the stone floor.

In that instant Vader drew his saber. Lifting his arm, the dark apprentice cut down a Twi’ lek knight in the first stroke, cleaving him through his leg and torso. The blue blade whirled in a blur as Vader spun the blade behind him impaling another knight through the chest; the scent of burning flesh filled the still night air. His gloved hand jutted out hurling two knights backward before their thumbs were able to ignite their weapons. The final Jedi, a Nautolan ran towards Vader pulling his saber from his belt. Tick – tack – Tick – tack - his boots snapped rapidly against the stone. A red dot appeared on his chest for a brief moment before being replaced by a larger glowing hole that knocked him off balance. His body crumbled to the floor, an orange glow faded as smoke rose from his chest, felled by a far off clone sniper. The two force pushed knights regained their footing for a moment until being rapidly pulled towards Vader whose arm continued to drag them in a wide clearing motion. Their bodies slung shot across the courtyard until being stopped by a marble wall. Their bodies cracked, bursting on impact…thrown so hard, there was no chance to regain their footing again.

Vader’s boots neared the fallen Nautolan igniting his saber only briefly enough to sever his head. “He would have done better..at least alarming them with a scream..” Their death march continued unknown. He made sure to leave no lingering life- force connection between those who came in contact with him. By severing their connection to life, wounded Jedi were unable to commune with other knights of the living force. Their presence only a void.

Pillar statues of tremendous Jedi that towered over the courtyard became surrounded by thousands of clones nearing the precipice of the stairs and temple entrance. No longer did these large figure’s shadows tower over practicing nights. The fight was no longer simulation, but truly a struggle from being extinguished.

Another lone knight walked towards Skywalker, “Good evening Master. What is the cause for th..” Interrupting, Vader made his final demand of the Jedi Order, “Draw your sabers and become one with the Force! Your plot to overthrow the Republic has failed!” Confused the knight laughed uncomfortably, slightly confused by such a declaration from the esteemed prodigy. “FOOLS!” Vader exclaimed slicing down the man in a growing rage: so many years of being held back, the lies, the mistrust, bubbled up from dark places unknown. “Commander Appo, direct your men as necessary. You have your targets. Now, isolate and destroy!” With a nod before turning to his captains he shouted to his lord, “Yes sir! Right away!”

Appo gave the signal through his comlink. As drops from a waterfall clash upon rock, squad after squad rapidly charged into and around the temple surrounding every gateway. Dozens swarmed the halls quietly, choosing their positions and moving forward, none dared to advance past Vader.

“Troopers follow me..”

[wraithnine]

that was utterly superb!  wow!

[Tamer]

Cool deal, on the front page.

I am gonna enjoy this read tonight or tomorrow.

[TheIRISH Rogue]

The Clone Wars: Knightfall Pt 2

Darth Vader’s plan was going unnoticed. “Destroy the hanger and all ships! We must focus on reaching the communications center.” A wing of gunships swooped in without warning. “Commence the barrage!!” a voice rang out across the comm lines.  Each gunship unleashed their entire payload of rockets in quick succession, turbo lasers continued pouring through the smoke, turret and chin guns rapidly fired slamming into any hint of a silhouette. The Jedi defense turrets were dismantled by the barrage, bursting into flame as they attempted to lock onto the gunships. Two gunships, filled with rocket teams, selected the futile turrets that remained. Barrels collapsed as the variety of gunfire tore through them. The clattering ceased when the last turret was obliterated. Any star fighters on the deck were too damaged put up a fight. In moments the entire hanger was left in ruin! Smoldering, torn and tattered metal, ships, and bodies alike; the hanger laid to waste.

Jet troopers burst through the smoke making use of their heat sensitive helmet visors to see through the smoke. They sprawled through the vaulted hangers and executed any surviving, but disoriented Jedi in addition to other ground crew. One Jedi went unnoticed, his robes cut and scorched, meandered into an area where he used the force to part the smoke. The man’s skin warm from the flames that flickered bountifully around him, a warm flow of blood trickled down his cheek, arm, and leg. Looking up, his eyes strained to see past the flashlight beams that broke the smoke; in front of him a squad of clone troopers drew near.

His chest relaxed as he exhaled in relief. A brief, yet menacing moment elapsed as he watched their DC 17 blasters raise, “Clones..?!” A tempest of blue laser bolts were let loose from the squad. The Jedi’s legs collapsed to his knees, his hand unbuckled his saber activating it for a moment before being overwhelmed by the bolts. His saber clattered when his torso fell backwards. “All clear!” the jet pack sergeant reported through clone command.

Alarms sounded across the temple, but were too late. Thousands of clone troopers had already established a foothold in the entrance of the temple. Jedi of all ages rushed from their rooms. For many in the already occupied wings of the Jedi Temple their doors opened to reveal a terrible surprise, a personal firing squad, most were gunned down before they knew the armor insignia. The 501st surged forward into the great halls, infiltrating the corridors in vast numbers. Pockets of resistance formed as knights, masters, and temple security rallied.

The fighting thickened, echoing through the halls. Upon reaching the library…all was again silent. Darth Vader was flanked by two squads of clone troopers who guarded the wooden arch ways behind him. “On orders from the Supreme Chancellor, you are to grant me access to the secured beacon!!” A voice emanated from behind a holobook shelf, Jocasta Nu proudly walked out. “That is a request only made possible by residing Jedi masters..on the council..” Rebelliously, she ignited her lightsaber.

Standing defiantly she raised her arm to initiate her attack stance, but Darth Vader, without care, levitated her. Her saber wiggled within her tightening, clutched hand. Pulling harder until she no longer could hold on; it flung from her hand. He then held it in front of her with the force. “You aren’t exactly in a position to deny this request..” Slowly the dark lord guided the saber through her chest; a concise, but tormenting death.

Nu’s body was tossed amongst her books that she loved so dearly. Librarians poured from above and below. Launching themselves from concealment, shelves, and statues they engaged Vader and the clones with a calm, but very deadly demeanor. In a last ditch effort to protect their livelihood and secrets from the invaders, holobooks became the target. Sabers blazed through the books which briefly flickered before permanently losing their data. Jedi continued to leap down cleaving clones apart, severing limbs and helmets alike. The strike was deadly and dangerous, but their numbers were too few. Blue bolts burned and mowed down Jedi from unpredictable angles as their valiant, but futile fight raged on.

Vader’s comlink beeped, “General, we’ve knocked out the hanger sir.” -- “Impressive, most impressive, but this battle hasn’t ended yet! Push your men towards that beacon! Keep this building sealed!” Vader walked through the halls, not a single threat worthy to display much effort. His blade cut swathes through the Jedi who came to oppose him. Clone trooper blaster fire speckled the once beautiful walls. “Push your way to the beacon!” The halls became littered with bodies from both factions. Blood, smoke, and fire poured through the halls. Glass shattered as thermal detonators burst through windows. Rotary cannons formed deadlier crossfire patterns while clone troopers gained ground on each vertical level.

Seldom were Jedi able to punch holes through the thousands of clones to get outside the walls, but every so often a padawan or knight would make their way out of the tremendous temple. They always left the same… first peering out into the silent courtyards, then sneaking and crawling from cover to cover; all the while under the eyes of clone sniper/spotter teams. Each target allowed to reach a breath away from freedom; taking a brief pause to look back at the smoldering temple to reminisce. In that moment they would be gunned down from afar. Dropping lifelessly out of sight from the temple, the distance permitted more Jedi to fall into the same trap. Utter hopelessness…

The raid intensified as Vader and the 501st surged towards the beacon. Knights of all species and training styles attacked in pockets and waves alike. Clones would be thrown against the walls forming large craters and cracks or cut down. In moments their absence was soon filled…an ever growing faceless enemy crippled the spirit of those Jedi able to fight. Vader toppled statues to crush Jedi snipers who used the high perches to pinpoint targets to sever. Non-Jedi defenders used what improvised breast-works they could to fire down on the sea of troopers. Rocket infantry exchanged explosions behind heavy cover with only smoke trails as their witness. Each shook and burst flaming marble in ripples across the halls. Undaunted Vader marched forward. “Your pride has ruined you!” he exclaimed slicing a Jedi’s arm from her body before using the force to throw her toppling over the railing. Every gesture resulted in waves of death.

Vader and his fist of soldiers struck through Jedi brutes and interceptors. Finally, the Sith reached the beacon. The second crippling blow of the operation was near completion. Clone troopers circled to defend Vader while his fingers quickly typed to reset the coded message broadcast to all Jedi; recalling those on missions to return. The troopers held their circle tight using suppressive fire and a constant application of stun and thermal detonators to keep any interruptions at bay.

From a side entrance two green saber blades spiraled! Slashing into the trooper ranks, dozens fell cut, pierced, even decapitated. The dark lord’s attention shifted when a helmet rolled, tapping against his boot, cleanly scorched. His hood quickly turned as the blades returned to their master in the dark crevice. Finishing his task - he pressed the beacon close, “I want a squad of assassin’s placed here. As for the rest of you, die holding this position until they arrive.” His cloak folded and twisted as he stepped over the fallen troopers.

A wounded clone barely able to wield his weapon, stretched out his arm to ask, “..But General…where are you ..going?” Pausing before entering the crevice where the green sabers fled, he replied, “To hunt Jedi…”

[wraithnine]

this story really add horror and distress it really adds meat to the bones of "the great betrayal"

[Tamer]

Nice, time to go put this on the front page.

[TheIRISH Rogue]

SU-WEEET! Thank you for checking in!

[nickeltcd]

Gripping , Intense, just a stunning picture in my mind. Now i want to know who that Jedi is that Vader is going to hunt.
Fantastic job!

[TheIRISH Rogue]

Serra Keto became separated from her master, Cin Drallig. During a fire fight with the clone troopers of the 501st the clones had begun using AT-RT’s to breach holdouts in the large hallways where the Jedi were able to hold their own. The Jedi knights slammed damaged pillars to the ground to provide themselves cover. The troopers had no choice but to engage closer...which is not a primary option when confronted by Jedi knights.

While squads advanced, large and small pieces of marble, levitated by the force, gained momentum hailing towards the white clad armor. The large chunks toppled handfuls of troopers with tremendous effect. Smashing armor and bone a like with no effort. The more experienced Jedi used smaller stones to hit acute targets like the black crevices between their enemies armor plating. Sabers provided a quick death, blaster bolts brought a decisive demise, but jagged rocks and glass… this was a war for survival where any advantage was being used. Glass visors cracked on impact with such force blood often had no choice of escape but through the thin faceplate or vents. In an effort to regain momentum, charging AT- RT’s hurled themselves into the Jedi defenses; dispersing pods of knights as they dove out of the way.

Charging into the fray they did just that. Some pilots were sliced, beaten, even dislodged from their seats, but the two legged machines continued a few more steps before toppling over itself or slamming into the breastworks. The window was given for troopers to have just enough time to rush through the chaos and take advantage by swarming the knights; overwhelming them with concussive bursts and tearing them down with rapid fire. Skilled Jedi were able to reflect and aim bolts back into the clones, but once close enough…seldom did any knight escape unscathed…It took nearly an hour and several platoons to gain access to Cin Drallig’s corridor. This matter soon would require the skills of Lord Vader himself.

After being separated Padawan Keto mistakenly made her way toward the main beacon thinking it would become a Jedi stronghold. Instead she stumbled into Anakin surrounded by clone troopers. In her best attempt to foil whatever plot was going on; the determined female padawan cocked her arms back then sent her double sabers spiraling into the clone squad. Reclaiming her sabers with the force, she turned and sprinted down the thin hallway towards the data room.

Blue light flashed her silhouette across the room. She climbed above a hologram table and waited, facing the door. The padawan paused with bated breath, her ears tensed, keen to the echoes that swirled around her. Blaster fire, screams, thunderous booms to and fro. The Force was becoming laden with pain and misery. A figure emerged from the shadows. Keto shouted at her pursuer, “You shouldn’t have come here!” Vader showed a minor grin, the blue illuminating the grin beneath his cloak, “Ahh..Serra, Cin Drallig’s greatest pupil has come to greet me.” The two charged one another, each seeking retribution.

Bright light flashed when their blue and green blades struck; illuminating her attacker’s face. “Skywalker?!” she gasped in disbelief as she stammered back. In a state of confusion her hands began to tremble at the prospect of such a unfathomable betrayal. The pair had fought together a handful of times, each saving the others life on an occasion or two. Her initial focus which had enabled her to help Drallig defeat dozens of clones was now shattered with each emotional pulse of her heart. Her arms flexed as she raised her sabers engaging the fallen Jedi with emotional swings and parries. Anakin’s attacks became less rigid in order to absorb less shock from her strikes. Fluid parries gleamed her blades away from him wasting her energy with each strike. Holo-monitors sparked as her sabers slashed through their mechanics leaving a momentary orange glow through the molten metal. When one green blade ricocheted off the sith’s blue blade, her other was brought forward to keep him constantly on the defense.

Vader indulged the padawan for several bouts. Though she was formidable, she did not have the skill nor endurance to best him. Keto began to pepper Vader with sharp witted insults in an attempt to distract him from his forceful defense. The pupil’s right arm began to fatigue. Her focus forged through the pain as her strokes became more and more limbering. Burning within her muscles stretched down her arm. Sensing the change, Vader used this to his advantage. His blue blade lunged forward at an alarming rate. Keto’s eyes bulged as the glow brightened near her face! Vader’s blade was diverted with a swift turn of hers. Darth Vader allowed the force she had thrown into her block to push his saber away. The Sith added force to the recoil turning his unsuccessful attack into a spin in which he added his own strength. In an instant complete silence aside from the soft hum availed… Vader’s cloak made a slight swoosh as the dense brown material swiftly left the metallic floor spiraling up. The clatter of battle was inaudible with no sound, but the lonely whir of her illuminated blades..time seemed to slow. Keto’s eyes focused on the blue blade returning in her direction, the sound growing, brought her back to reality. Her waist twisted to bring her strongest arm to bear, reinforcing the aching burn within her right arm.

A great hiss echoed throughout the room with the impact of clashed swords! The muscle’s resistance waned dangerously; which brought her right arm to collapse, hitting her body as her second blade came to reinforce the faltering right. Vader’s menacing, prideful grin grew. Keto looked for a reprieve..even if only for a moment, she needed something to break the onslaught. Using her left-hand she slid her blade down Vader’s, dangerously close to his hilt. Vader having lost his hand one time to Dooku reacted stronger than a typical swordsman would have otherwise. The padawan out stretched her fingertips hastily, then curled them tearing a large motor from the wall. The device which previously powered the bright holo-displays flew towards the pair. Vader leapt back before the large device smashed into the floor throwing a cloud of dust with sparks into the air.

Darth Vader used the force in a swiping motion to clear the cloud before him. Keto’s boots clicked as she landed far above on balcony platform that lead to another corridor. “What? AHH…” a panicked scream cut short. Vader darted around the massive piece of equipment and vaulted himself up over the railing where the young Jedi fled. Ahead of him was a sliding door attempting to close, but rebound off a recently dispatched clone, the orange hue that emanated from his armor still apparent. The Sith walked through the door smashing it back.

The hall was narrow. Light flickered at the end of the access hall as he neared the end. Stepping out Keto’s green blades ignited as she thrust herself towards Vader, pinning him to a large column. Her right hand moved slowly to decapitate the Sith, but her attempt failed when he dodged out of the way. He jutted out his fist knocking her back with the force. The determined padawan toppled over a railing and fell down a number of meters. Upon hitting the floor, her lungs forcefully exhaled with a grunt. She lay facing up…her eyes tightened, breathing coarse and harsh. She could see Vader approach the white railing above, his hand’s posture acting as though balancing a stick. Keto’s eyes widened when she realized the pillar she sliced through was levitating towards her. Vader smiled before he dropped the immense pillar down upon her, smashing her without hesitation. Not even a scream was made.
Vader stood alone in the vacant hall. The battle raged in distant halls. For now only his breath lingered.

KKkkrsshhh (his comlink activated) “General! We request your assistance in the main atrium! Cin Drallig is…..SHHIIiisssss..”

The message dropped silent following the hiss of a lightsaber. Taking a last look at the growing pool of Keto’s blood, Vader turned again down the narrow hall towards the ongoing struggle. Cin Drallig’s presence within the force was strong. Vader searched for a void forming amongst his troopers..there he would find Master Drallig…

[wraithnine]

oh man this story just gets better and better!

[Tamer]

Just great action here, off to share.

[TheIRISH Rogue]

The Clone Wars     ------ For unfamiliar Clone OC's of mine -- Click link http://theirishrogue.deviantart.com/gallery/40257611 

Knightfall: Vol 4.

“Forward Forward!!”

“On your left..On your lef…AAHHHH!!”

“MEDIC!!”

“Take them down!! Keep down the suppressive fire! Overwhelm them!”

“AHH!! It burns – IT BURNS!!!” “HOLD it together trooper!”

“Exploit the gap in the pillar!” “Flank em!”

The silent disposition the clones held during the initial minutes of the raid on the Jedi Temple had drastically altered as the conflict reached its peak. Every corridor was filled with utter carnage. The once great halls that radiated the meanings of peace, justice, and serenity were now scorched with blast marks and riddle by craters. The long halls and forums littered with bodies. The walls reverberated with each thunderous eruption. Though the sounds of the struggle echoed, nothing about this fight was familiar. Everything could be used by the force wielders as a weapon. No cover was safe for too long..even breastworks were used to smash the clone troopers that sought refuge.

The clone troopers of Salvo battalion had an uncanny relationship with the Jedi. This mission was especially tough, but there was zero toleration for anyone who dare chose to betray the republic…no matter how many battles they had stood together or prevailed. The majority of the battalion was with Rex off site, but Volley squad was in the thick of it. Being lead by Sergeant Kano, they found themselves in one of the bloodiest passageways within the Jedi Temple. The squad charged forward under the covering fire of three rotary cannons speckling the hall in thousands of rapidly firing blue specks.

Hotsh crouched next to his Sergeant. With their backs against a blown out wall, Hotsh shouted over to Kano, “Toss me a grenade!” Kano tugged at the cover atop a backpack of a fallen brother. Failing to open, Kano’s fingers clutched the flap even tighter before pulling the flap with a swift jerk. With this jerking motion, the trooper’s body moved revealing a slice through the armor..nearly cloven in two. From the pack five grenades rolled out. Quickly, Kano reached down and snatched up two which he rolled to Hotsh. The sergeant also tossed grenades to Pike, Wraith, and Tank. While rapidly firing their rifles and carbines, Hotsh rapidly stood up from his position; winding his arm back as his thumb squeezed the arming button. Spiraling through the air a Twi Lek Jedi saw the incoming grenade. As fast as it was coming towards him he halted its advance with his hand, then returned it back to the clones. Another trooper was climbing over the debris Hotsh and his squad were using as cover.

The trooper’s hand helped to push him over the collapsed wall.

Clink* Clink* Clink*

The small metallic clacks could be heard as the grenade tapped along the floor. As quickly as he had crossed the makeshift wall, he was propelled back across it from the resulting explosion. Various pieces of armor and stone were hurled into the air. The body smashed into a wall sending cracks up the wall, splintered apart the armor, then collapsed lifelessly to the floor atop the debris. What use to be white and battle worn armor was now blackened, smoldering plates.

“Damn Jedi..we fought with you..we can find your shortcomings!” trooper Shine shouted, priming a grenade he pulled from his bandolier. Pressing his thumb into the button the countdown beeps remained audible over the hail of laser fire.

*Beep “….4”

*Beep “…3”

*Beep Beep “..2”

“HUMPH”- With only a moment remaining, Shine torqued his body around the wall and flung the silver grenade toward the Jedi who was preoccupied deflecting laser bolts to even notice the incoming spherical object. Blue lekku rested against his chest, brilliant green eyes darted to the shine of the thermal detonator.

*BEEP *BEEP     PHOOOOM!!!

In that instant the grenade erupted into a glowing ball of flame! When Hotsh stood bringing his rifle to bear, the spot where the Jedi had been standing was only memorable due to a smoking boot that remained. “Ha ha ha, gotcha!” Shine grimly chuckled to himself. Following suit, the brothers in Volley squad held the timing triggers before throwing them towards the Jedi defenders. A rumble shook the floor when shockwaves unfurled ripples of destruction. As the smoke rose and debris settled the clones cautiously moved forward. While creeping their ears remained keen for any voices or familiar humming the Jedi weapons emanated.

Hearing nothing but the gentle crackle of fire, Hotsh and Pike jogged to their next cover position. Bits and pieces of obliterated lightsabers laid about their feet. Assertively Pike spoke to Hotsh, “I don’t hear..anything..” Their eyes scanned weapons darted around corners as they progressed across new tattered terrain. Hotsh’s eyes caught a glimpse of something through the haze; a flowing motion only for a second. His targeting monocle zoomed in towards the area he thought the glimpse had been. Motioning to Pike they moved hesitantly..poised for anything.

“Hotsh, what are we looking for?”

“Shhh..quiet lads..”

Clone troopers stepped over the bodies of Jedi. Wraith knelt down to examine a fallen Jedi with closer detail.. “That’s odd..I knew the blast was concussive…but” The troopers thoughts spaced apart as he processed the evidence he was studying. Kano approached, “Wraith..don’t waste your time on something we just "wasted".” The veteran soldier’s helmet turned to the side in skepticism. Kano nudged the body with the sole of his boot “See?” In shock Wraith leaned forward, “Did you see that breath Sarge?!” Kano was easy to annoy which became evident in the tone of his voice. “Wraith..you’re acting like a shinnie! If you’re that worried…what’s one more blast cost? Take it!” Kano’s boot pressed down on the Jedi’s chest whose eyes promptly opened.  

The sergeant’s finger began to squeeze the trigger, but instead of a laser bolt finishing of the knight…a lightsaber ignited. A burning sensation tore through his chest. The green blade glowed as it searing through his armor!

“Uhg…ckkuh!” Kano’s helmeted face did not have to look down far to see the blade that had him skewered. Wraith regained his footing, but before his blaster could be put to use he was propelled backwards through the smoke. The Jedi, while still lying on the ground, swiftly brought his leg up, kicking Kano off his lightsaber. The sharp crackling of the saber igniting followed by the heavy thud of Kano’s body suddenly brought the clones back to a heightened sense of alertness. From beneath their feet lightsabers ignited severing many unaware trooper’s limbs. Blinding flourishes, disciplined stabs, and debilitating slices: dozens of Jedi rose from the floor where they had acted slain. Cloaked in the smoke, only the sounds of whirring and cutting radiated. Screams echoed: often cut short. Hues of blue and green flourished, but no shapes were certain. No target was definitively identifiable. Wraith stood up and bolted into the conflict…only to be force pushed from the thick cloud, “I’m getting really tired of that!!”

Again he hunkered down behind a piece of debris aside his brethren.

The room drew silent again. Hotsh, now in charge of the squad, made a calculated decision, “OPEN FIRE!!” Without moving forward all blasters unleashed a maelstrom of fire which separated the cloud as they pierced deeper. “AHH!! Frie…ire”a shout heeded. Pockets of smoke began to dissipate quicker.

Hotsh shouted over his comlink, “Holdfire! We will push forward.” Having survived the incident on Umbara, Hotsh was reluctant to endure any instances of friendly fire, preferring to risk casualties at the end of a light saber instead. Again, the clones surged forward attempting to claim any edge over the Jedi; often doing this by popping unpredictably over or around a corner to unveil their rapid fire weapon.

Hotsh crept over the tile fragments, his shoulder pad barely scraping the wall within the fog. A humanoid female Jedi turned the corner, her skin blazoned red. The blue saber she wielded sliced through his DC 15A rifle with ease. Hotsh’s surprised face was masked by his helmet, but his stammered backward steps were cut short; falling backwards to the floor. “Hotsh!! Watch it!” Shine shouted, firing his DC 15S in quick succession, scrambling towards the duo. Deflecting the blue bolts away from herself, one hit his forearm plate toppling him off balance.

Jedi Master Tiplee’s blue eyes pierced him. Her eyes bearing the angst he only saw during the time her sister, Master Tiplar, was murdered by trooper Tup. “Master Tiplee!” Hotsh exclaimed out of sheer surprise. Her “hair” wavered behind her head furiously. Her hand gripped Hotsh’s throat through the force. “I knew this day would come! My sister’s murder was no mere accident..” Hotsh’s back grinded across the fragmented floor while she throttle him.

“Leave it to be those we saved: the marauders of our demise! You…There’s always been something wrong about your kind!”

Hotsh could barely make a sound, “We…didn’t betray the ..(*gasp)..the republic!”

“Can’t you see you are only puppets and THAT is what makes you so dangerous! You are failing the republic! Just wait…”

Hotsh grappled at his throat with one hand while his other touched a familiar portion of his bisected DC15A.

“E..nough…orders…are…hrmph…orders!”

Within his palm and thumb he squeezed a button unleashing the grappling hook attachment which had been hooked beneath the barrel of his weapon. The hook launched in an instant sinking deeply into her collar. The red skinned Jedi cried out in angst as the grappling hook spread its claws beneath her muscle. Master Tiplee reignited her saber and began winding her arm back to deliver a killing blow.

The clone trooper grabbed a hold of the line and yanked harshly! Tiplee's balance was torn as the hooks pulled her bone unsympathetically. Pike lunged at the opportunity Hotsh was providing. Tiplee’s saber fell to the ground. Trooper Pike drew the blade that was locked  on his shoulder blade. The female rebounded off the ground, flicking out her wrist to call her saber to her hand. The metal still warm touched her skin as she ignited the blade yet again Pike weaved his arm with hers immobilizing it while sinking his cold blade through her right side, wrenching the blade up further to ensure her demise. Tiplee’s mini red and blue tails wrenched then fell as her body writhed then went limp.

Pike pulled the blade from her body and dropped her to the torn floor. Extending an arm to help his comrade Hotsh to his feet; the two looked to their feet for a new rifle, which was readily available.

The two looked at each other, took a breath, and then again dove into the fray.

Hotsh and Pike’s brothers had surged further forward during the scrap with the Jedi. The 501st was beginning to pick up momentum – a refreshing feat for the clones who were being cut down at an alarming rate. The new leader of Volley squad’s voice rang-out over the comlink, “Send these traitors to the dark! Boomer we need AT-RT support on the barricades!” In other corridors, AT-RT’s sallied fourth to aid in breaking up the impenetrable sections of Jedi resistance. As the clone barrage increased, knights lifted entire walls to shield themselves from incoming lasers.

The rotary canons chipped away at the hefty slabs suspended in air.

“Where are the rockets? Shine--- rockets STAT!” Hotsh shouted over the comms. “I know sir! Hell…they’ve been put to use in a lateral corridor. Supplies are tight at the moment!”

“Then get creative! More altitude.” – “Sir, there are swathes being cut in our lines! Reinforcements requested! We cannot gain grou…shhhhhhhhhh *click*”

Hotsh then redirected a portion of his patrol to the requested zone.

A saber-master and a handful of his pupils were making short work of clone troopers in a series of nearby hallways. Troopers died in droves. Enough of the rocks had been worn away where a Jedi was felled by a rotary canon’s burst. The stones noticeably dropped towards the ground.

The three clones wielding the rapid-fire weapons were lifted in the air and rapidly pulled over their brothers fighting amongst the debris filled hall. Abruptly they broke through the grey slabs: not stopping before hitting to the floor.

Looking up Hotsh noticed a Jedi with grey and silver,long hair on a platform flanked by his apprentices. Sabers ignited. The entourage leapt down to engage the clones.

“Now is our time padawans! Show these clones how to become one with the force! For the order…”

[wraithnine]

holy sh.! this story is fan-bloody--tastic!

[Tamer]

I posted this all over the place. Lets see if we can get this some comments. Folks, please take a few seconds to jot IR a note letting him know you appreciate what he is doing. I know I for one don't do enough to show how much I appreciate the great fan fiction and photo-novelers and graphic creators like the Irish Rogue here who just add heaps of enjoyment to me in this hobby.

[TheIRISH Rogue]

The long awaited Volume 5 depicting one famous scene viewed by Obi Wan and Yoda when they make their way back into the temple. Enjoy! All feedback welcome!!

Star Wars

The Clone Wars

Knightfall
 
Volume 5

The temple’s halls echoed with clatters of armor, whirring of Jedi sabers, thunderous bursts of explosions, and the pounding thuds of both boot and body. The 501st spread through the temple like waves upon a beach. Had their initial breach of the temple been halted the trooper’s lives would have paid a higher price, but Lord Vader enabled them to strike deep into the heart of the sacred building. The Jedi: isolated and alone.

Vader quickly walked from the balcony leaving padawan Keto’s body behind. Troopers clad in blue and white armor hurried about him collecting data from the temple’s library which had only then been secured. The fallen Jedi’s face was void of expression. His thoughts only of rage…doing what must be done. A glimmer caught the knight’s eye as he neared a bronzium statue. The familiar countenance of Count Dooku’s was easily identifiable among the Jedi busts of the Fallen Twenty. Undeserving of more time of his, Vader barely flexed his pointer and middle finger to topple the heavy bust to the floor with a resounding crash. A bellowing metallic thud rang off the granite surfaces. A slight exhale of satisfaction left Vader’s nostrils.

Passing beneath a towering archway, Vader, shortly issued orders to a squad of troopers approaching the gate, “Keep those records intact and guard the beacon by any means! Do not let anyone reach those records or the beacon.” The sergeant snapped to attention, quickly nodding his head before shortly replying, “Yes sir!” Their boots quickly pattered against the shiny floor; spanning out to cover several firing lines. The Sith lord’s cloak waved as he walked; his blade whirred by his side, the blue reflecting off the shinning marble.

Vader’s eyes needn’t see what surrounded him in the all too familiar halls. Each step clicked while he meditated, eyes closed. His mind and muscles actively sought out powerful presences of other Jedi leading the struggle within the temple grounds. As he thought, Vader could feel a large swath of clone troopers being cut down. The button of his comlink snapped, “Commander Appo, where are the troops meeting the highest resistance?” The clone’s voice was hardened from orchestrating the attack, “General, We’ve secured the hangers, power station, access gates, towers one and three! The meditation quarters are nearly cleared as well! We are engaged in the great halls, but are making steady progress. We’ve been halted in atrium nearest the Training Hall. Battle-master Drallig and a padawan pack were seen near recorder TR4-121. Squads are taking substantial casualties!”

Vader began to jog towards his old training grounds, “On the way. Have a fresh battalion prepped for the Inner Sanctum, but DO NOT progress. We only need to prevent their escape…” The clone trooper’s voice remained urgent, “It will be done General Skywalker!” Had the commotion of battle not been so prevalent, the rogue Jedi knight gone dark acolyte would have had a thought about Appo’s title.

Turning right, the hall became an immediate expanse. Beneath Vader’s boots the smooth click began to crackle. Small and large pieces of rubble were scattered surface. Clone troopers and Jedi lay strewn across the floor. Troopers toppled over one another, their armor sliced or bludgeoned by large chunks of rock. The walls decorated with blaster specks accompanied by pockets of dark explosive craters. Pillars of all sizes; cracked or blown from their perch, then used as cover on the floor. In contrast to the identical clones, Jedi of all species and colors slumped against the wall, some with blast points still smoldering. Vader looked at several pairs of Jedi while passing them. Their hands interlaced in a last attempt to share a final exchange of compassion.

Down an adjacent hall, an adolescent Nautolan lay on his chest. Burning sensations in his leg roused him from the shock that had brought him to the floor. Green finger tips sprawled, his arm extended towards a knight who had been fighting alongside him. The female lay contorted on her back, hair messily scattered across the floor. Nudging her shoulder, the young Nautolan saw she was badly singed and cut by shrapnel. That end did not spare her being shot additional times by the troopers. A tear trickled down his cheek. Ripples through the force overwhelmed his senses. A click echoed.

The Nautolan’s head snapped up with abrupt alertness, but relaxed at the sight of another padawan who was raising up from beneath a pile of dead clones. A third climbed over the railing. He was a tall headed Cerean, similar to that of the famed master, Ki Adi Mundi. The Nautolan gasped, “Thank the force for both of you!” The Cerean retorted in pragmatic skepticism, “This is only the start of our trial…just because we’re alive now does not mean we’ve won.”  ---“Or that we’re even close…” said the padawan who shoved the clones from his body.

“We need to get to the Sanctum!” the Cerean hushly whispered. The human male began lifting the Nautolan; wrapping the green arm over his neck, “Yes yes! The Sanctum is where the guardians will be! Shakkra Kien will save us! Do you think the blue wolf is still down there?” The Cerean moved to the entrance briskly, then looked down the hall, “Does that even matter? He’s great with that spear! Let’s go you two..” The tall headed Jedi peaked around the corner cautiously. His head turned right then abruptly turned left, noticing Anakin Skywalker as he ran down the hall. His eyes widened in both surprise and relief. “Fi Nik, what do you see?!” the human padawan loudly whispered, his breath heavy while the pair worked hard to make their way towards the tall figure.

Fi Nik took a step into the hall way. Vader’s jog did not slow…his arm curled before unfurling…the saber spiraled rapidly when leaving his hand. With no time to act the Cerean’s body tensed up for an instant prior to the blue blade burning its way through his neck; instantly cauterizing the split flesh. The spinning blade continued on its path down the hall. The duo of padawans paused in confusion when the blade was recalled. Their eyes bulged in horror! Fi Nik’s neck glowed orange, separating from his body while it collapsed to the floor where it rolled into a severed clone helmet.

Vader ran passed the hall where the two wounded padawan’s were standing, completely befuddled by what they witnessed. The green skinned Nautolan turned asking ghastly, “Wa..was that Skywalker?” The human paused in denial, “No way.. I mean..it was probably Skywalker, but that couldn’t have been his blade.”

Seemingly in reply to their bewilderment, the cloaked figured returned to the hallway, saber ignited. “Skywalker…?” uttered the human padawan. Vader slowly approached his prey. “Skywalker?”

Falling to his knees uncontrollably, the Nautolan clutched his throat and lungs, gasping, “GUrk…ahg….I…ca..’t..”

The other padawan ignited his saber, striking a defense posture. He took a step forward, gripping his saber tighter with both hands for added strength. Vader raised his lightsaber, also holding the hilt with both hands. “You dare?” he challenged. The illuminated blade swung upwards, making contact. In the same motion Vader swirled his glowing saber in a blue flourish before again swinging down, anticipating the padawan’s blade bouncing off his…and it did. The Nautolan deeply inhaled after Vader released his grip over the youngling’s respiratory system! This however, was in vane: the human’s rebounding blade struck his Nautolan comrade. Green eyes faded lifelessly, rolling back into his head.

Vader’s heart not only darkened, but took a degree of dark pleasure varying the methods used to dispatch his foes. The young man let out a scream of rage cracking his voice. The small framed boy swung diagonally upwards in a blind frenzy. When his arms reached their pinnacle, Vader’s blade briskly hummed thrusting its way through the boy’s sternum and collar. He too fell to the hardened marble. Hope dashed in a matter of moments.

Vader again turned toward the atrium to continue the dark deeds of the night. He reached a large bastion of clone troopers who sought refuge while others continued to reign down blaster and rocket fire. Vader walked amongst his men’s scattered ranks. Discipline remained hardened and tight. Approaching the front ranks, the troopers under Hotsh’s squad, Vader began to raise his hand into a fist, “Hold here, I’ll take care of this.”

“You’ll do no such thing darksider!” a voice echoed from before Vader. A man with long grey-hazel hair stood above the rubble. Behind him a small contingent of padawans whom he had been training during the initial stages of the onslaught. “To be honest, I’m surprised it took you this long to arrive.” Vader passed the barricades, “My apologies old battle-master.. I was teaching Padawan Keto how flawed her technique was…too crushing a lesson it seemed.” The wise Cin Drallig sighed, an air of sorrow lingered, ”I saw what you did Skywalker. Your snide remarks don’t cover your self-loathing…” Igniting his saber, Vader began to scale the debris. “Spare me the philosophy and stick to what you know..the sword. Your defense has failed thus far…”

Behind Drallig, a tremendous gate way was illuminated with natural greens, the sound of trickling water over smooth stones prevailed over the chaos. The battle master had been leading a sparring session several of his students prior to the attack. The sword instructor took in a deep breath of the fauna behind him.

With a click, Drallig activated his green saber; bringing it to a defense ready pose, ”Prepare yourself to join the force old pupil! To all others…let this stand as your final lesson. How to become one with the force!” Raising his blade, Vader shook his head slightly, “To whom are you teaching? Ha, shouldn’t you have a class still standing by the end of your lesson?” Their blades swirled in a haze of vibrant blurs before flashing brightly upon impact. The strokes were made swiftly, steadily, and with keen accuracy.

Every stroke hissed!

One of Drallig’s Padawan’s, Whie Malreaux readied himself. He was thought to be a powerful addition to the order second only to Anakin. Many Jedi Masters remarked the contrast in their humble nature given their talent.

Two clone troopers readied their weapons to halt the young man’s approach. Springing from behind cover, their weapons clicked to the ready. “You are not my end!” he challenged with confidence. Cutting through one’s DC 15 with a stroke that tore through the other’s thigh. Continuing the same sweeping “U” motion, Whie pulled his saber back through the clone’s arm and chest then torqued his wrist thrusting the blade deep into the disarmed trooper’s side. The blade dove through the trooper’s right side, penetrating deep, reappearing again next to his helmet.

Withdrawing his blade, Whie made a valiant effort to aid his saber instructor. Using a sniping technique, he thrust the saber towards Vader. The slender padawan’s fingers released the grip then reformed into a straight palm; thrusting his sword through the air with a force-push! Vader had little time to react as the blade cut through his robe creating a perfect hole. “Nice Whie!” the other padawan, Bene, shouted! Anakin’s focus remained on Drallig though he was dismayed at the near encounter that recently unfurled. Whie and Bene ignited their sabers and charged forward towards the fray.

Their efforts to hinder Vader were short lived. Whie entered a window of exchanges between the two saber masters. Though true of heart, his saber stroke was quickly countered. Vader’s aim stood true, cutting Whie down with a precise slash across his chest. Whie’s momentum continued even after the death-stroke had been dealt; his body toppling down the debris mound. His last gaze was through Drallig and Vader’s rapid clashes into the Room of a Thousand Fountains. “The green.. tranquil..” his mind let go, joining the force.

Bene’s cheek glossed with streaming tears. The order crumbled around her. Jedi continued to fight temple wide, but sheer numbers had begun to tilt the favor against them. Drallig poured his might and years of teaching into combat with Vader. Bene’s confidence shattered; her self-doubt crept in, diminishing the years spent keeping it at bay. Towards the duel she bolted. Vader slammed his saber against the battle-master’s saber, forcing Drallig to stumble, his foot losing traction as the rubble gave way.

Vader’s face sharply turned towards the dark-haired pupil, his eyes flared as if on fire! The dark disciple’s hand throttled Bene’s throat through the force, lifting her from the ground. Her body was suspended inches off the ground drawing nearer to the dark knight. Bene’s feet kicked, veins began surging from beneath her skin, body writhing in agony. “NOO!” Drallig shouted trying to break Vader’s clutch over her attacking desperately! Her body began to wretch violently. Vader deflected blow after blow using the padwan’s suffering to weaken his opponent’s resolve.

Usually Vader ended a strangling struggle by cracking the victim’s neck or windpipe, but this time he carefully sapped every fiber of her being; even allowing partial breaths to prolong the painful process. All with the intent to ruin Drallig’s spirit!

Bene eventually succumbed to Vader’s torture, but this brought no reprieve to Cin Drallig. His concentration was cracked. The toll of his mind’s eye shattered the master’s fortitude after being subjected to a death of such incredible caliber. He engaged Vader again with a number of quick thrusts and counter parries.

Using a sharp sliding motion, Vader used a trick that he had once been chastised for by Master Drallig. The blue blade hissed down the green in a white flash compelling Drallig to open his hands to avoid losing them. As he disengaged his lightsaber to prepare a defense, Vader redirected and quickly thrust the blue glowing blade deep into Drallig’s heart then pulled the blade through his shoulder.

The battle master was dead before another breath could be taken. His death was delivered so swiftly that his hand continued in the direction of his initial movement, throwing the saber from his clutch. The master responsible for leading the defense of the Jedi Temple had fallen. Vader turned to his troops; all who watched the prowess of their leader in awe, “Hunt the rest of them down.. all of them! The rest of you; it’s time to finish this! Join me for the Sanctum...”