Ok... here's the remake of the 20th chapter in the Rykrof Enloe saga! 

I hope you guys like this one - there are a LOT of changes from the original rendition of this chapter that I posted about 18 months ago... Thanks for taking the time to read my stories.









As the Clone Wars continue to rage throughout the galaxy, the Confederacy of Independent Systems has launched countless attacks against the Grand Army of the Republic...






...millions of lives have already been lost on both sides of the struggle...






...as the war has become been the greatest challenge to face the Jedi Order since the formation of the Republic.






Far away from the battles, in the farthest reaches of the Outer Rim, a small Badoo Corba space station orbits a small planet in the Yinchorr System.

Their evil deeds overshadowed by the larger galactic conflict; the evil terrorist organization has captured one of the Republic's finest officers, Commander Rykrof Enloe.






Hoping to instill fear in the Republic, the terrorist group holds Rykrof Enloe in a security compound on the surface; with plans to broadcast his execution throughout the galactic holonet.






Held in a cold chamber, Rykrof is ordered back onto an electro-rack; a torture device he has become all too familiar with while being held captive.
 





Seeing an opportunity to strike, Rykrof surprises the cell guard by swiftly grabbing his captor's weapon!






In an instant, he flips the terrorist onto his back!






Rykrof then strikes a viscous blow to the dome of an outdated astromech before it can sound the alarm!






...as the droid collapses, Rykrof looks up to see the guard attempting to escape!






Lunging forward, he catches the terrorist with his restraints...






Fueled by hatred for the Badoo Corba, Rykrof chokes the life out of the Abyssin...






As the corpse falls to the ground, he looks up to see something has entered the chamber...






To Rykrof's horror, an illegal ITK droid slowly approaches him, emitting a shrilling buzz as it locks its sensors onto him...






In a blinding flash of light, a paralysis beam knocks him to the ground!






As the soulless droid emits a radiation beam, Rykrof begins to experience a burning ache throughout his body; barely aware that he is about to be placed back onto the electro-rack...






Just then a laser blast strikes the side of the droid’s support column!






A fiery explosion erupts from the internal processor of the ITK droid as it falls to the ground.






Dazed and confused, Rykrof exhales a cautious sigh of relief as he looks towards the chamber door.






"There is little time, once Mubaas discovers what has happened there will be no escape!" Judiss cries. 

"Get to your feet Human; we have to get out of here!"







Meanwhile, a trio of Republic assault cruisers congregates over Kashyyyk.







Admiral Tylin Gere stands in the control room of the lead cruiser; anticipating the next move of the Separatists.






"Admiral," deck officer Captis Arlin says as he approaches the superior officer. 

"We have traced the last transmission of the Badoo Corba to the Yinchorr System.  We have a strike force that can be there within the hour."







"Do no such thing," Tylin says, changing gears.

"We have no reason to believe that Commander Enloe is still alive.  All of our resources must be concentrated against the Confederacy... we will have to deal with the terrorists at a later time."






Meanwhile back on Yinchorr, closely trails Judiss through the Badoo Corba complex; unable to determine whether or not he should trust the Aqualish terrorist.






As the two round a corner, Rykrof watches as Judiss blasts an unsuspecting Badoo Corba operative.






"We have been fortunate so far, Human.  But once Mubaas discovers you are not in your cell we will face more resistance," Judiss tells him.

"I would expect nothing less," Rykrof admits. 






"But why are you doing this?  I thought you hated the Republic?" Rykrof asks.

"I do, but not at the expense of civilian lives..." Judiss growls. 






"...Mubaas has revealed a plan to me that would lead to the deaths of millions... I can not be part of this organization if they are going to target the innocent."

"But we must hurry; I will explain more once we are off this planet!"







As Rykrof attempts to escape from the Badoo Corba base on Yinchorr, a pair of Federation Battleships looms over Kobridor...






Former Jedi Master Quinlan Vos and the misguided Asajj Ventress watch intensly as their master, Count Dooku, meets with Jedi Master Kala Mly Shundi.






"Count Dooku," I have been more than reasonable in my request for your assistance in finding Commander Enloe," Kala Mly Shundi states.






"And I have told you, I have no connection to the terrorists holding your friend," Dooku replies coolly.






"The only way to save Rykrof Enloe is to learn the ways of the Dark Side.  Only through the Force can you attain the power to find your friend… before it is too late," Dooku tells him.






"Don't try your mind tricks on me, Old Man!" Kala growls as he ignites his lightsaber.






"He's MINE!" Asajj Ventress shouts gleefully, leaping into the air!







Kala then steps back as Count Dooku effortlessly suspends the dark woman...







...before sending her crashing to the ground.






"Forgive the Child," the Dark Lord says to Kala.

"She has no discipline."






"Now, go back to your ship and find your friend," Dooku tells him.






"I don't know where to look," Kala says, feeling a strange sense of shame for drawing his saber against Dooku.






"Follow the Force," Dooku tells him. 

"But if you are unable to locate Rykrof Enloe, perhaps your friend can overcome the danger he faces from strength within."






"You speak of him as though you wish for his safe return," Kala says.






"Commander Enloe is a good man," Dooku says. 

"We could use more like him leading the Confederacy... perhaps after the war, regardless of the victor, men like Rykrof Enloe can help mend the wounds of the galaxy."





"May the Force be with you," Kala can hear Dooku say as he walks to his ship.






"What are you doing?" Ventress hisses as Dooku returns to his followers. 

"I would have cut him to pieces!"






"It is you that would have been cut to pieces," Dooku warns her.

"He would have cut you to shreds."






"What I have done is plant a seed within Master Shundi." 






"In time he will return to us; no longer a Jedi."






Back on Yinchorr Rykrof and Judiss frantically attempt to get off the planet.






"Master Judiss!  Master Judiss!" PD-106 exclaims in a nervous tone.

"The assassin droids are on their way!"






"I know!  Is the ship ready?" Judiss says hurriedly. 

"I could not secure your ship," the droid tells him.    "But I was able to secure two ATL Interceptors."






"Those are separate one man fighters... will your injuries inhibit your ability to pilot your own ship?" Judiss asks.

"Looks like we'll find out," Rykrof tells him.






"Hurry," the droid warns as the two exit the compound. 






Once outside, Rykrof feels compelled to find out more about the upcoming terrorist strike Judiss mentioned earlier...






"Wait!" Rykrof shouts.

"You have to tell me what Mubaas is planning!"






"He needs the hyperspace bypass codes he wanted from you in your interrogation," Judiss tells him. 

"But we don't have time to discuss this right now!  I'll tell you everything once we escape!"


 



"Get to the ships!" Judiss threatens.







Back inside, PD-106 attempts to delay a pair of deadly assassin droids.






"I couldn't stop them," PD-106 cries.  "I'm only an interpreter!"






"After they threatened my life, they jammed the door!" he informs them.

"Where's a maintenance droid when you NEED one? "

 



Ignoring the sarcastic remark by PD-106, one of the assassin droids, yielding a lightsaber; tears through the jammed door.






"Shistes!" Judiss yells.  "We have to get out of here!"






"I'm right there with you!" Rykrof agrees.






Only moments too late, the pair of droids can only watch as the two ATL Interceptors blast into the sky.






The two pilots nervously scan for any signs of resistance...






...seeing no immediate threat, Rykrof feels a new sense of hope and begins to follow Judiss's course to get off the planet.






But just then, a pair of GAT Skiprays emerges to intercept them!






Hoping to outrun the Skiprays, Judiss and Rykrof attempt evasive maneuvers!






Although the ATL Interceptors are better equipped for speed, the terrorist ships have caught the escapees within firing range...






...swooping in for the kill, the lead pilot unleashes a deadly barrage of blaster fire...






...striking a direct hit!






In a flash, Judiss is killed instantly as his ship explodes into a million shards of metal!






Whether it be through the will of the Force or simple luck, Rykrof is able to evade the Skipray assault!






Back at the complex, Mubaas demands answers for the escape.






"The prisoner was helped by Judiss of the House of Saramis,"   the droids tell Mubaas in a cold, mechanical tone.

"The body recovered from the wreckage of the ship shot down was not human."






"This would indicate the primary prisoner is the one who escaped."






"I knew it," Troffar the Terrible bellows. 

"We should have killed Enloe when we had the chance.  Waiting for a public execution has backfired!"






"Cross my authority in these matters again and it will be the last thing you do," Mubaas warns Troffar for his outburst.






"Enloe now knows our location.  It will not be long before he returns with an army," Mubaas announces.

"We will therefore relocate to our base of operations on Dantooine."

 




"But soon we will remind the galaxy what true FEAR is..."






"...for I have agreed to a new deal with an old ally."




TO BE CONTINUED...

 

Seems like a lot of us are getting to that age where we're bringing little ones into the world, and I've found that there's nothing more enjoyable than holding your own child, so I thought I'd show some pics of my son here.

Kiefer Justin Cook was born May 23rd and 11:16 p.m. weighing in at 7 lbs and is 19 3/4 long. It's hard to believe the little guy is already 6 weeks old.











It's so unbelieve being a dad... it's really a blessing, and is the most humbling yet pride-filling thing that's ever happened in my life.

We've been fortunate because he's healthy, and rarely at all cranky.  He's a riot too, always making us laugh and it's impossible for me or my wife to look at him without smiling.

 

Back in photonovel mode after a 2 month delay... here is the 17th chapter in the Rykrof Enloe.  Thanks in advance for any feedback, as always it is very much appreciated.









With the onset of the Clone Wars, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine has implemented numerous changes on Coruscant in the name of increased security to protect the population from Separatist attacks.

However, the capital of the Republic has become subject to frequent terrorist acts and assassinations of leading Republic figures by Separatist agents and members of the Badoo Corba organization.
 




As the war enters its second year, the population is shaken once again as a section of the Galactic Alliance District is decimated in another terrorist attack...






...burying hundreds of innocent civilians beneath rubble and ash.







Above the highly populated city planet, several Republic Assault Cruisers stand on high alert in response to the terrorist strike.








Recently returning from Dathomir and now learning of the devastating attack, Rykrof Enloe silently observes the planet below; knowing all too well that his recent actions may have cost him not only his career, but a friendship he has known all his life.







Suddenly a deck officer notifies Rykrof that Admiral Tylin Gere's shuttle has arrived.







"Very good ensign," Rykrof replies, wondering what type of reception he will receive from his longtime friend.







Just then an escorted clone officer barges onto the bridge.

"Commander Enloe," the clone boldly announces, "We are here to take you into custody."

 





"Under whose order?" Jedi Master Kala Mly Shundi interjects.








"We are under direct authority from Supreme Chancellor Palpatine," the officer replies.

"No need to worry," Rykrof calmly says to his Jedi friend.  "Once intelligence deciphers the data on the cylinders we uncovered, everything will be fine."







"Very well Rykrof," the Jedi complies.  "But stand your ground; your mission was not a failure as they claim."







Rykrof is then escorted to meet with Admiral Tylin Gere.







"Hello Rykrof," Tylin says.  "Many of us were beginning to wonder if you would ever return."







Mystified by the cold greeting, Rykrof hesitates before speaking.

"Yeah, I was beginning to worry about me too, Tylin.  It's been a while."







"That's Admiral Gere to you," Tylin replies sharply.

"The Republic is grateful that you survived your ordeal," he continues.  "But when an officer is given orders, they are to be followed without tardiness or delay.  Unscheduled family time is not a luxury we can afford to take when orders have been given."







"I am fully aware of that, Admiral," Rykrof says sarcastically.  "And I will accept the consequences for my actions.  However, I was able to upload a significant amount of data that will aid the Republic in eliminating the Badoo Corba."








"Your find certainly didn't save any lives today," Tylin replies snidely.

"It saddens me to say this, but friendship only goes so far," Tylin tells him. 

"There is little I can do for you at this point.  And your Jedi friend is very fortunate that the Jedi Council has already spoken to the Supreme Chancellor on his behalf."







Meanwhile, Freelo and Traedon Cusiro argue over the situation they have found themselves in while Ralbarr attempts to ignore the bickering conversation.

"This is a bunch of bantha crap," Traedon growls.  "They have no right to be holding us on this ship.  If they don't let us out, I'm going to take matters into my own hands."








"Maybe you should have just stayed on Dathomir," Freelo replies as he gently sips at his cup of Slug Juice.







"Listen here fish face; I've about had it with your smart mouth.  Ever since we got off that rock all you've done is get under my skin," Traedon threatens.  "One more comment and you'll find yourself in a trash compactor."



 



As the two continue to bicker, Kala Mly Shundi approaches the group.







"Kala, what's going on?" Traedon asks.  "How long do we have to stay on this ship?"







"The decision is not mine to make," the Jedi Master replies.

"But I thought you should know that Rykrof has been taken into custody."







Ralbarr becomes enraged with the news, emitting a deep growl at the Jedi Master.

"Into custody?" Traedon asks.  "For what?"







"From the Chancellor's point of view, Rykrof is responsible for the Badoo Corba escaping Dathomir.  If he had not delayed his mission, the terrorists might not have had time to evacuate the system," the Jedi Master informs the group.

"Rykrof knew he was taking a risk by visiting his family on Naboo.  Now it appears the Chancellor is going to make an example out of him," he continues.







"Oh yeah?  Well what about the data cylinders he downloaded at the Badoo Corba base he discovered?" Traedon asks. 

"Rykrof said there was information on them that was invaluable."







"Don't forget that I helped him export that data," Freelo proudly announces.







"Our only hope is that the data will outweigh the charge he faces," Kala says.



 



"Now, let's get you registered so I can see about transferring you to Coruscant."







Meanwhile, Tylin and Rykrof make their way towards the communications chamber of the ship.







They then prepare to make contact with the Supreme Chancellor, who has requested to speak with Rykrof directly.







Knowing he may very well face charges of insubordination, Rykrof prepares to present his case to the leader of the Galactic Senate.







The holographic image of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine then appears.







Tylin then greets the powerful leader.

"Supreme Chancellor, it is an honor to speak with you," Tylin says. 

"As you have requested, I bring you Commander Rykrof Enloe for questioning."






"Thank you Admiral Gere," Palpatine replies.

"Commander Enloe, please spare me the details on why you visited Naboo.   I only want you to tell me what happened on Dathomir.  But keep it brief.  I have to address the Senate with details on today's terrorist attack, but I want to hear your report first."







"Yes Sir," Rykrof replies.

"When we arrived in the Dathomir System, we were ambushed by a fleet of Federation Battleships."







"Most of my team was shot out of space..."







" ...very few of us made it to the surface alive."







"We had to stay low during the day because of the Separatist patrols in our sector..."







" ...eventually a rescue team located us, but the Jedi were met by Asajj Ventress."







"But a dark witch was in control of the planet..."







" ...she seemed immortal."







"Interesting," Palpatine replies.  "How did you escape from her?"







"Either luck, or the will of the Force," Rykrof says.  "Unfortunately Jedi Knight Kovin Thayle was killed by the witch... "







" ...but thanks to Master Shundi, our escape was made possible."







"After over 100 standard days on the surface, I'm still amazed that any of my team made it off the planet..."







" ...but the Badoo Corba must have evacuated prior to our arrival.  They seemed to have known we were coming."







"However, we did obtain secret data on the Badoo Corba.  I believe we can use this information to prevent future terrorist attacks," Rykrof tells him.

"Indeed," Palpatine says with a smile.







"The data codes you provided have already been broken.  It appears that the information you obtained contains the identities and locations of dozens of terror cells in the Outer Rim," the Chancellor says enthusiastically.







"Your recent actions concern me, but there is no doubt that the information you have obtained is vital," Palpatine says. 

"Especially while we are at war with our resources stretched thin.  In times like these, it becomes easy to see terrorism as merely an annoyance.  I was personally in the Galactic Alliance District earlier this morning, leading me to believe that I was the intended target of today's attack."







"The data you brought back revealed a link to the terrorists on Kobridor... the planet has been a battleground between our clone army and the Separatists since the war broke out.  But thanks to your information we now know there is a primary contact of the Badoo Corba on that planet."







"Find the Quarren, Tessor, and bring him to Coruscant for interrogation," Palpatine continues.   

"Successfully complete this mission and as a measure of my gratitude, I will grant you a leave absence from duty to be with your family on Naboo."







"Thank you Chancellor," Rykrof says as he observes the holo image of the Quarren.

"I will not let you down."







"I know you won't.  Now, assemble a strike team and rendezvous with General Shaak Ti's forces on Kobridor.  I look forward to granting your leave of absence upon the success of your mission." 







Following the meeting, Tylin chases after Rykrof.

"You were fortunate in there," the Admiral says.  "Today's attack was convenient timing for you... under any other circumstances you'd be in a prison cell right now..."






"...which is where you should be, along with your new entourage.  That Mon Calamari friend of yours was working for the Separatists before you met him, and the smuggler..."







"...grrrruuuuk!"







"Cross me again Tylin and it will be the last thing you do," Rykrof threatens as his grip tightens on the Admiral's throat.

Tightening his grip even more, Rykrof feels an urge to kill his former  friend right here, regardess of the consequences.







"You heard the Chancellor.  I have work to do," he says after releasing his grip, leaving Tylin gasping for air.








The following morning, citizens begin to go about their daily routine, weary of the ominous threat of both the Separatists and the Badoo Corba.







Concealed behind a local diner, Rykrof meets with his inner circle of trusted allies to discuss the recent turn of events.







"I'm not sure what's happening to the Republic," Rykrof says in frustration. 

"Ever since I enlisted as a Peace Officer, I've done everything I can.  And really, the only reason I'm not in prison right now is because of those data cylinders.  Even Tylin has turned against me.  Who's next, my wife?







"This is exactly what I told you would happen," Finis Valorum says. 

"Palpatine is doing everything he can to stay in power beyond his term and gain more control ...he's manipulating everyone ...even you." 







"Even if that's true, now is not the time to challenge him.  Not during a time of war," Rykrof says.

"It would tear the Republic apart."







"I thought the Republic was already torn apart," Freelo comments to Ralbarr.








"It would be best to take your family and go into hiding until the war is over," Valorum says.

"Regardless of the outcome, the Republic will lose."







Senator Tame Heem then adds onto Valorum's strong words. 

"Finis is a wise man, Rykrof.  He is one of the few without a twisted allegiance.  Unlike the Chancellor Palpatine, he has no ulterior motives.  You are in no position to challenge anyone on a political level now though.  It may be in your best interest to take his advice and resign."







The trio then exits the alley leaving Rykrof with even more questions.







"Nice meeting you!" Freelo exclaims as he waves goodbye to the three politicians.







"Well, I guess this is as far as I go too," Traedon then tells the group. 

"For now at least.  I have to get back to Correlia."







"Maybe this is it for me as well then," Rykrof laments.  "Maybe they're right, I should submit my resignation."

"Don't do that," Traedon reassures him.  "At least don't make a decision until you hear back from me, ok?"

"That's fine Traedon," Rykrof tells him.







Traedon then briskly leaves the group, leaving Rykrof wondering who will be next to abandon him.








Suddenly an obese creature bustles out the back door of the diner.

"Damn scrubber droid," he says in a garbled voice.  "This relic should be in a museum!"







"Hey what are you doing back here?  Dumpster diving in my trash are ya?" he yells.

"Hi, I'm Freelo," Freelo says with a smile.  "We were just talking with Finis... "







"Our apologies," Rykrof says, sharply cutting Freelo off.

"We'll be going now."







"Now wait a just a minute," the creature growls. 

"You're not going anywhere without explaining to me why you're back here!  Who are you? "


 




"It's ok Dex, they're with me," Kala Mly Shundi interrupts.








"Master Shundi, these are friends of yours?" Dexter Jettster asks. 

"I had no idea!"








Kala then accompanies the diner owner to his garbage pile.

"They're good friends," Kala tells him.

"But keep this to yourself; you didn't see any of us here."








"Alright, I gotcha," Dex replies.  "Jedi business, I can respect that."




 



"Just next time you stop by, come in the through the front.  My door is always open to friends of the Jedi," Dex tells Rykrof.

"Thank you Dex," Rykrof says cordially.








"I'm a friend of the Jedi too," Freelo eagerly points out. 








"Then you're welcome anytime," Dex laughs.  "You'll always have a friend in Dexter Jettster!"








"Rykrof, the Council has granted me permission to accompany you on your mission," the Jedi says once Dexter returns to his diner.

"I'm very happy to hear that," Rykrof admits.







"This will not be an easy task; Kobridor is a complete battle zone.  The entire planet has been affected by the war," Kala tells him.








"I'm ready for anything," Freelo says, bringing a smile to Rykrof's face.







The group soon departs Coruscant, prepared to find the Badoo Corba terrorist on Kobridor and bring him back for interrogation...







...knowing their mission is but one of many in the war...







...a war that has consumed the galaxy for over a year...







...with no end in sight.




TO BE CONTINUED...



 

Ok friends... another redo.... this one is the 15th chapter in the Rykrof Enloe series... probably the most effort I've put into any of the redos.  Hope you enjoy, there are quite a few changes here.  All are new pics as usual, with more emphasis on script.















Several months have passed since a strike team led by Rykrof Enloe has crash landed on Dathomir.  Thought to be dead by the leaders of the Republic and by those close to him, no rescue attempt has been made. 

As the war continues, a trio of Federation Battleships looms over the planet as the Confederacy continues to hunt for Republic survivors.





Taking refuge in an abandoned Badoo Corba terrorist base, Rykrof and his team search the complex for supplies. 

Taking shifts, at all times a lone guard patrols outdoors to watch for approaching droids.






Hoping to find a way off the planet, TK-42 has searched the entire base but has come up empty handed. 






During their stay at the complex, Rykrof has become acquainted with Freelo, a freelance archaeologist who had been contracted by the Separatists to help coordinate an excavation on Rhen Var. 

Although the Mon Calamari had considered working for the Confederacy, Rykrof has learned that his new acquaintance is no enemy of the Republic, and had preferred to stay out of the war. 






Rykrof has enjoyed the company of the stranded alien, who has since expressed interest to help the Republic in the war effort if he can ever get off of Dathomir.






During his stay, Rykrof has managed to repair a damaged terminal, and viewed hundreds of recordings.

One particular recording of interest is a transmission to evacuate the complex sent by an emerging leader of the Badoo Corba, Troffar the Terrible; immediately prior to the Republic’s arrival in the Dathomir system.






After another day of endless research, Rykrof comes across a startling discovery – the secret identities and coordinates of dozens of Badoo Corba terror cells throughout the galaxy, including the underground of the Republic capital of Coruscant.

Amazed at his find, Rykrof quickly saves the data onto two separate security locked data cylinders.






Knowing his chances of survival are slim, he entrusts the second data cylinder to Freelo. 

“If only one of us makes it out of here, this information must get to the Republic.  Commander Tylin Gere will know how to retrieve the data,” Rykrof tells him.






“We’ve stayed here long enough,” Rykrof then says.  “It looks like our only option is to find your ship and see if we can make the necessary repairs.”






Meanwhile, in the Spahl system, Count Dooku makes contact with his master, Darth Sidious.






“The Force is with us, Master Sidious,” Dooku says as he greets the Dark Lord of the Sith.






“Yes, you have done well," Darth Sidious tells his apprentice.






"Neither side has struck an advantage in the war.”






"The conflict is serving its purpose, just as I have foreseen."






"Yes, my Master.  Soon we shall have our revenge against the Jedi..." Count Dooku replies.





"...they have become preoccupied by the relentless attacks of the droid armies and are unable to interfere with our interests on Rhen Var..."






"...however, Asajj Ventress has not found proof of the death of the Republic strike team on Dathomir, nor has she encountered the dark witch."





"But as you requested, I have already sent General Snodd to aid in the search for Republic survivors." 





"Finding the strike team is insignificant," the Dark Lord laughs. 

"The Dark One has found Asajj Ventress.  Your protégé’s test is near.   She is already watching her."





Meanwhile, back on Dathomir, Nemoidian General Snodd searches new areas far from the original crash site of the Republic strike team…






…and finds evidence that the team has survived longer than originally thought. 

“Rancor droppings," he mumbles to himself.  "Fresh."   





Nearby, a modified Spelunker probe droid emerges. 

Traveling on four articulated pincer legs, the agile droid quickly scrambles over the rocky terrain as it searches for traces of Rykrof's strike team.





Suddenly, a laser blast strikes the droid's central processor!





"You're a good shot, Rykrof!"  Freelo exclaims. 





"What was that?" a patrol battle droid asks in reaction to the laser blast.

 




"Look out!" Rykrof yells.  "Patrol unit!"






Caught off guard, the droids fail to process the attack quickly enough as Rykrof's team advances.





"Watch for more droids!" Rykrof yells over the blaster fire.  "These patrols always travel in single file to hide their numbers!"





Hearing the laser blasts, General Snodd approaches the scene of the battle.

“It’s them,” he exclaims.  “Kill them!”






Suddenly more droids emerge from the jungle and open fire on Rykrof's team.





"They're trying to kill me!" Freelo screams as a laser blast rifles past him.






“There’s too many of them,” TK-42 says to Rykrof.  “We need to fall back!”






"Come on Freelo!" Rykrof shouts, grabbing the panic-stricken Mon Calamari.






As the Republic troops retreat, General Snodd contacts Commander Asajj Ventress. 

“I’ve found them!  Three Republic troopers and a Mon Calamari …heading southeast at coordinates two-zero-six-point-three-three-eight ...looks like they're splitting up!”





After dispersing into the wilderness, Rykrof and Freelo slow down to catch their breath, only to find themselves separated from the other two troops.






“Damnit!  I don't believe this!” Rykrof curses to himself.  “Hey, what are you looking at?"

“Whoever that is behind you...” Freelo replies slowly.






As Rykrof turns around, he finds himself starting into the barrel of a D-22 blaster.






"Easy there," Rykrof says to the unknown man. 






Suddenly another armed man appears from behind them, pointing his blaster at Freelo. 






"Shiste," Freelo cries after dropping his blaster.  "We're trapped!"






“Never seen a clone trooper look like you before,” the first man says to Rykrof.  "I thought you were all the same.” 






“Most are," Rykrof says.  "I'm Commander Rykrof Enloe, of the Grand Army of the Republic.  And this is Freelo.  Who might you be?”






“Cusiro’s the name.  Traedon Cusiro.  And if the fish hadn’t dropped his blaster, I reckon Briss would have shot him dead in the head.  He’s never liked aliens.”

"We've been trying to get off this sewage dump for a while now.  Wretched droids have attacked us too, so I guess that puts us on the same side,” he says. 





Meanwhile, Asajj Ventress contacts her master, finally having progress to report. 






"Commander Ventress," Dooku says sternly as his image appears.  "I had begun to think you were in the stomach of a rancor."






Ignoring the insult by her master, Ventress reports the situation on the surface.

“My Lord, we have found the strike team," she hisses.  "They are alive just as you predicted." 








"My droids are closing in.  Enloe is among the survivors, but it will not be long before they are dealt with.”






"Enloe is not your prey," Dooku reveals to her.

"Then you speak of the being on this planet?" she asks.  "Of the presence I have felt... it's everywhere."






“Your feelings serve you well, Asajj," he says approvingly.

"Now prove your worth to me.  Find her ...she has already found you."






Meanwhile, Rykrof’s separated troops discuss their situation.

“Our primary objective is to see to it that the commander survives.  Our lives are not important,” trooper 004 says.






“Agreed,” TK-42 replies. 

“He needs to get that information to the Republic.  If we can't find him, we must do everything in our power to distract the droids so he has a chance to escape.”






Miles away, Rykrof, Freelo, Cusiro and Briss set up camp for the night.

Although uncomfortable trusting these new men, Rykrof feels he has no choice.  Any help is better than no help, and Freelo appears to be quite relieved to surround himself with these new companions. 






More importantly, Rykrof realizes he must concentrate on finding a way to deliver the data cylinder he has in his possession to the Republic.

Although the Badoo Corba escaped and he has failed in his primary mission, he takes comfort knowing the vital information he has acquired  could save millions of lives.

“Now how did you end up out here?” Rykrof asks, breaking the awkward silence. 





“Shot down by the Separatists just like you,” Cusiro says.  “Smuggling supplies to Ithor and stopped here to rendezvous with another group ...sure as hell didn't expect to see those battle cruisers in the system."

"Once we crashed though, the real hell began.  Ran into some sort of witch down here.  Killed and actually ate most of my men.  Briss here somehow escaped from her.  Doesn’t like to talk about it though.”






“Witch?”  Freelo asks. 

“I encountered a creature in the mountains after I crashed ...it was unlike anything I've ever seen before.  Only in folk lore have I heard of such an abomination.  But what I saw after arriving here is true.  Such things do exist!"

"But don't be scared without your clones Rykrof, these men will protect you."






"Trust me Freelo, I've seen things before that you wouldn't believe," Rykrof says dryly as he stokes the fire.






"No disrespect intended, but I don't care who you are or what you've been through ...you've never seen something like this," Traedon Cusiro insists. 

"I don't think I've slept in days ...I guess I'll run watch again tonight."






"Are you kidding me?" Rykrof asks.  "We'll run shifts."



 


"Shifts?  Not me!  I'm not staying awake all by myself out here!" Freelo exclaims, bringing an amused smile to Briss.

"The creature out there may have been once a Night Sister," Briss tells him.  "A user of the Force …evil as hell.  I’ve heard stories about them,” he whispers.  “Siriadne is her name."





"Space travelers talk about her," Cusiro says.  "Some call her the Dark One ...a living demon from the ancient galaxy …a cannibal." 

"She never sleeps… her obsession with flesh is her curse.”





“She is the curse of Dathomir…”




TO BE CONTINUED...

 

,,,check it on out folks, feel free to compare it to the original, etc.

And special thanks to Famine, for helping me with some of the dialogue.










Battles continue to rage across the Republic; as neither side has gained an upper hand in the in the greatest clash the galaxy has ever bore witness to...





...the Clone Wars.





Following a recent terrorist attack on Coruscant, Jedi Master Obi Wan Kenobi and his Padawan, Anakin Skywalker have been sent to destroy a cache of Confederacy weapons on the dim world Nivek.






"Stay focused on the mission Anakin," Obi Wan tells his student.  "I sense your distraction.  Are you still wishing you had been sent with Commander Enloe to Dathomir rather than fight alongside your mentor?"

"Of course not Master," Anakin replies, attempting to conceal his thoughts to himself.  "It's nothing."





"Well your mind is elsewhere," the elder Jedi says, "And so is your heart.  You must distance yourself from attachments Anakin, or you will never fulfill your destiny and become a Jedi Knight."





Elsewhere across the galaxy on the peaceful world Naboo, Republic Commander Rykrof Enloe has made an unscheduled visit to his home planet before a scheduled mission to destroy a Badoo Corba terror cell on Dathomir.





From a distance, Senator Padme Amidala watches as Rykrof bids farewell to his wife, Alyssa.





"You shouldn't have come home," Alyssa warns her husband.  "What will the Chancellor say?"

"He won't even know," Rykrof assures her.  "I had to see you and the baby," he says.  "Besides, the Badoo Corba has no idea that we've located their base on Dathomir.  The least I could do was come home to see my family before the mission."






"Just be careful," she begs him.  "And hurry back.  The last place I want you going is to some wild planet looking for those terrorists!"

 



As her husband's shuttles depart, Alyssa Enloe wonders when the love of her life will return... or if her child will ever remember its father.






Meanwhile, Anakin Skywalker has returned to the Republic fleet following his mission to Nivek with Obi Wan Kenobi...






...and immediately contacts his secret love on Naboo.






"Anakin!" Padme says with joy as her image appears via the holonet.

"Padme, I'm sorry I haven't contacted you before today.  The mission with Obi Wan took longer than expected," he tells her.  "But we were successful.  We're one step closer to winning this war."




"Just seeing your face makes up for the lost time," Padme says warmly.  "But I must admit I was jealous of Alyssa Enloe today when Rykrof showed up unexpectedly to visit her."

"Enloe was on Naboo?" Anakin asks.





"Just for a short time Anakin," she tells him.  "But Alyssa looked so happy to see him.  I wish you could have been here too," she says before changing the subject.

"...as do I, my love," he says softly, though his thoughts revolve around Rykrof disobeying a direct order to report straight to Dathomir.





Following the transmission, young Skywalker seeks the wisdom of a true friend.





Anakin quickly details what he has learned to Supreme Chancellor Palpatine.

"I'm not surprised," the ruler of the Senate says.  "Commander Enloe has not seen his family in some time."
 





"But his orders were to go straight to Dathomir," Anakin counters. 






"Yes, they were," Palpatine admits.  "And those orders should have been followed," he says with a stern look.

"Therefore, the question presents itself:  Where do Rykrof Enloe's loyalties lie?"






"I'm not sure," Anakin says softy. 






"Neither am I," the Chancellor replies.  "Anakin, you did the right thing bringing this information to me.  If the Badoo Corba has used this window of opportunity to escape from Dathomir, Commander Enloe will be held accountable for dereliction of duty."

"You have become a great Jedi Anakin," Palpatine then says.  "I only hope the Council understands this as I do."






Soon after, Rykrof's assault team arrives in Dathomir space.

Expecting to land on the planet safely, they are unprepared as they are confronted by a Separatist Fleet!





Without hesitation, the battleships open fire on Rykrof's ships...






...unable to jump to the safety of hyperspace, the convoy is defenseless against the attack.






Outnumbered and outgunned, Rykrof has no choice but to order his troops to launch their escape pods.






While the Separatist fleet does manage to destroy most of the escape pods, several vessels evade the deadly turbo lasers and enter the atmosphere of the dark planet below.


 



Soon, word of a distress signal from Commander Enloe's convoy is brought to the attention of the Supreme Chancellor by Commander Tylin Gere, a close friend of Rykrof Enloe.






"Commander Gere, I want to personally give you my condolences for your friend, Commander Enloe," the Chancellor says as he embraces Rykrof's good friend at the Republic Alpha Security Complex.

"It appears a Separatist fleet was in the Dathomir system when he arrived.  We have yet to receive word of any survivors," Tylin informs him.

"The situation doesn't look good, and he's also a very close friend," Tylin continues after a brief pause.


 



"Of course he his.  There is no doubt in that.  And little doubt that if someone survived the attack, it would be Commander Enloe," Palpatine says thoughtfully.  "But we now both know where his loyalties lie," he continues.

"I'm not sure what you mean," Tylin replies.  "Rykrof is loyal to the Republic.  He always has been."

"True, but we know that your friend took a detour to Naboo before carrying out his mission; thus giving the Badoo Corba an opportunity to escape," Palpatine says sternly.






"He must therefore face consequences upon his return; if he's even alive... think about it Commander Gere.  If it came down to it, which would your friend lay down his life for?  For the Republic or for his family on Naboo?"

"His family means everything to him," Tylin replies.

"As it should," the older man agrees.  "But without the Republic, his family and the people of Naboo would be under oppression from the Separatists, or even the Badoo Corba.  You see, the Republic can survive without Naboo, but Naboo can not survive without the Republic." 






"True," Tylin agrees.

"Your friend fails to realize that," Palpatine says in an exhausted tone.  "Because of this he had disobeyed direct orders and put himself and others in a situation that has most likely cost them their lives."

"This could have been our one chance to eliminate the Badoo Corba. Commander Gere, you must understand that if your friend is alive and if he is ever allowed to return to service, we must be weary of his allegiance.  He could betray the Republic.  He could betray you."






"I don’t..." Tylin mutters.

"You don't have to say anything," the supreme ruler of the Republic says as he begins to exit the complex.  "I'm sure there are other more important matters to for you to attend to."






"But in the meantime I will personally evaluate the risk of attempting a rescue, and decide if it is worth bringing him back here to face a trial," Palpatine says.

"But it appears it would be a waste of resources to try and find him."






Following the surprise attack on Rykrof Enloe's assault team, General Grievous has summoned Commander Asajj Ventress, a cold-hearted, merciless Force sensitive operative of Count Dooku to search the planet below for any survivors.






"Count Dooku himself has insisted that you personally dispose of any survivors," the general of the droid armies informs her.  "Take a battalion of droids to the surface.  Do not return without the head of Commander Enloe."

Although Asajj Ventress internally questions why she would be sent to dispose of a mere Republic commander who could very well already be dead, she restrains from questioning General Grievous of the rationale behind Count Dooku's orders.






"Count Dooku will be pleased," Grievous laughs.  "There will be no escape for this fool Rykrof Enloe!"






Meanwhile, Rykrof wakes from an unconscious state and is helped to his feet by a surviving clone trooper.

"Do you have any injuries, Sir?" the trooper asks.

"I think I'm just a little dazed," Rykrof tells him as he looks around.  "Wow, this place is disgusting," he observes.





"Affirmative Sir," the clone confirms.

"Ok, we've got to start looking for survivors," Rykrof says.  "Do you know the status of any other pods that made it to the surface?"

"I'm not sure, but I've seen one approximately 200 meters to the east," the trooper replies.






Rykrof is dismayed to see that one of the troopers did not survive the landing.





"Broken neck," one clone trooper advises Rykrof.  "We came in so hard it's a wonder any of us made it."






"I guess we have to consider ourselves lucky then," Rykrof says dryly.

"We'll continue our search until nightfall," he then says, thinking aloud.  "Then we can see if we can find a shelter for the night."





Rykrof and his known surviving troopers then begin to search the dank swamp for any other survivors...






...unaware of the true dangers that await them on Dathomir...






...or why the Separatists have taken control of the system.


TO BE CONTINUED...



 

And this is as far as I am caught up...














Deep within secure Republic territory, Coruscant is the most important planet in the galaxy.  As the Clone Wars continue, the public has begun to understand the consequences of the ongoing war.  But under the leadership of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, billions of loyalists still believe the Republic will prevail in the Clone Wars.






However, former Peace Officer Rykrof Enloe, who has begun to lose faith in the Republic, is all too aware that there are dangers beyond the threat of the Separatists. 

Having recently survived a deadly assault on Rhen Var, Rykrof's attention has recently focused on an old enemy.






Barely mentioned by the media, Lotar Prison Facility in the Outer Rim has become overrun by a local rebellion loyal to Count Dooku...






...and images have surfaced of several notorious criminals escaping.  Among the convicts to evade recapture are Troffar the Terrible, a ruthless assailant with close ties to the Badoo Corba organization.






After reviewing the holonet of the disaster at the prison facility, Rykrof is approached by a longtime friend, Tylin Gere.






"Tylin, I take you seen this about the Badoo Corba who escaped from Lotar?" Rykrof asks as he turns around to face his friend.

"The prison break?  Of course I heard about it.  But I have military priorities to address before I have time to brief on a police matter," Tylin says.
 





"But you're in charge of security for Palpatine's public appearances.  I suggest the Supreme Chancellor halt all public appearances for the time being.  The Badoo Corba are up to something," he insists.

"Why would he listen to you?" Tylin laughs.  "Even the Jedi Council asked him to push some appearances back.  But he won't listen.  He says that he's safe and so are the people of Coruscant.  And you know what; he's probably right!"






"We might be safe from a full scale military attack, but we're in no way prepared for a terrorist strike.  The Badoo Corba are more dangerous than you realize," Rykrof says coldly.






Meanwhile, two of the greatest of all Jedi contemplate recent events in the war.






"Terrible news Master Mundi reported in session today regarding Rhen Var.  If Dooku discovers the secrets of this planet, great consequences will we face," Master Yoda laments.






"It seems as though Master Mundi was set up for failure," Master Windu replies.  "The addition of Commander Rykrof Enloe was not nearly enough to assist the outpost there.  If we are to win this war, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine must grant us the resources we need."






"Take back the Rhen Var system we must," Master Yoda says firmly.  "But to discover the secrets of the Ancients, take Dooku some time it will.  For now, other matters must we discuss."






Meanwhile, a small civilian transport enters the Coruscant system unabated...







...but the fugitive on board is much more dangerous that the average traveler.






After landing, the passenger enters a dark chamber hidden in the Pojer District; one of the most dangerous locations on the entire planet.





Within ancient duracrete walls the leader of the Badoo Corba, Trigg Fuuda, contacts the charismatic leader of the Confederacy, Count Dooku.  Hoping to forge a new alliance with the Separatists; Trigg once considered himself a key ally to the Confederacy prior to the outbreak of the Clone Wars on Geonosis.

"Trigg, you are slobbering a fool," Dooku says sternly to the Badoo Corba leader.  "I should have destroyed you when I had the chance."






"What?" Trigg hisses.  "I come to you to forge a new alliance!  You should be pleased to hear from me!  I have a proposal that will interest you!  Troffar has returned!"






"You are a terrorist.  There is no longer a purpose for your kind.  Nothing you can offer will interest me.  And remember, you have failed me in the past... consider this a final warning to stay out of Separatist affairs," Dooku says coldly.

Continuing before Trigg can reply, Dooku finishes the transmission.

"Therefore there will never be a place for you in the Confederacy," he continues. "You will stay out of all military engagements or you will suffer  severe consequences."






"Damn him," Trigg fumes to his ally, Troffar the Terrible.






"What did you expect?" Troffar retorts.  "Dooku and Palpatine are both our enemies now.  Let the Republic and Confederacy tear themselves apart in this war.  Then we will slaughter the survivors and forever be free of tyrants!"







"I already told you Trigg that Dooku could not be trusted," Zeedo Chissis mentions.  "He betrayed us on Abridon and would do it to us again.  Instead we should persuade Black Sun to join our cause.  Prince Xizor left the Confederacy some time ago.  Form an alliance with them!"

"Besides, Black Sun credits are good in both the Confederacy and the Republic," he jokes in an evil laugh.






"No!" Trigg erupts.  "This has never been about credits.  And we will carry out the planned attack on schedule.  Once Dooku realizes what we are capable of, everything will change.  It is the only way!"






The next evening, a group of Republic officials anxiously await an opportunity to see Supreme Chancellor Palpatine as he is escorted to the Galaxies Opera House on Coruscant; a favorite pastime of the Supreme Chancellor. 






Soon the Supreme Chancellor emerges, escorted by a light contingency of clone troopers.






The guards assigned to protect the leader of the Senate are amongst the finest Kamino has to offer; constantly on alert for any potential assassination attempts on Chancellor Palpatine.






"Wait a minute," young Jedi Anakin Skywalker says to himself as the escort approaches.  "I sense something... something's wrong here..."






Suddenly a thunderous explosion engulfs the light escort craft!






Amazingly, the Supreme Chancellor is unharmed in the inferno.







"Chancellor!" Anakin yells in panic as he offers the Chancellor his hand.  "Are you alright?  Are you hurt?"

"Anakin my boy, I'm quite fine," Palpatine says with a comforting smile.







"This must be the work of the Separatists," the Chancellor announces spitefully as Tylin Gere secures the area.

Although he is the senior officer present in charge of security, Tylin is relieved to see a Jedi offering support in the situation.






"Maybe it was Dooku, or terrorists or a political opponent," Tylin says, taking charge.  "But now is not the time for an investigation; right now we need to get to you a secure location."

"Yes of course," Palpatine agrees.







Soon, Trigg Fuuda speaks with Count Dooku again, this time at the Count's request.

"You surprised me today Trigg," Dooku reveals with a smile.  "I was unaware that you had the resources to get so close to the Chancellor.  And from the reports I read, the Chancellor was only inches away from being killed."







"Thank you, my Lord," Trigg hisses with a new found sense of confidence.







Trigg is then instructed to meet with an associate of Dooku's in the bowels of an abandoned facility nearby in order to join the Confederacy.

"But you must come alone," Dooku tells him.  "Only then will you be taken care of and properly treated for your actions today."






Following Count Dooku's instructions, the leader of the Badoo Corba soon enters the abandoned facility he was instructed to locate...







Once inside he is confronted by a menacing cyborg.

"This way.  Lord Sidious has been expecting you," a cold mechanical voice says.







"Darth Sidious?"  Trigg thinks to himself.  Now is he not only in Dooku's favor, but he has the opportunity to meet the mysterious Sith Lord himself! 

For years Trigg has yearned for something more; to be greater than the leader of a band of terrorists.  Now, standing shoulder to shoulder with the Confederacy, he will become more powerful than he had ever imagined.






Deep within the chamber, Trigg soon encounters a shrouded being standing in the darkness...






"Welcome, Trigg Fuuda of the Badoo Corba," an evil voice says.  "Your actions today have caught the eyes of the entire galaxy.  Most importantly, mine!

Suddenly, an overwhelming fear consumes Trigg Fuuda; realizing he unwittingly set the stage for his own demise.






"But your painful end will be witnessed by only me!"






Beams of dark energy emit from the Dark Lord's fingertips, penetrating the very soul of the terrorist leader.






Like an Arkanian jellyfish out of water, Trigg's body spasms on the dank floor as the dark powers destroy his very essence. 

Even as he begins to lose consciousness, everything becomes clear to Trigg for the first time since his ambitions for power hatched years ago.  Not only has he been betrayed by Dooku, but the Sith have penetrated the highest levels of government in the Republic.  Knowing what he discovers in death, he is thankful that he will not be alive to bear witness to the aftermath that will be the result of the Clone Wars.







"What a foul stench this mindless fool has," Dooku says as he glances at the smoldering corpse of Trigg Fuuda.

"Lord Tyrannus, you did well luring him here.  Now, see to it that this stunted slime is disposed of," Darth Sidious says.
 





"Use the sewers below so that the body is never found.  The Cthons will finish what is left of him."






The following morning, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine calls for a special session of the Galactic Senate to be broadcast throughout the Republic.






"Thanks to our clone intelligence, the terrorist threat on Coruscant has been eliminated," he explains above overwhelming support in the Senate Hall. 

"Regretfully, the leader of the Badoo Corba, Trigg Fuuda was killed while resisting arrest.  But this shall be an example to both the terrorists and the Separatists that such strikes against civilian, political or military targets will not be tolerated for as long as I am in office!"






Upon hearing the breaking news, the remaining leaders of the Badoo Corba discuss the fate of their fallen leader. 

"This is a devastating loss, but we will recover and emerge stronger under new leadership," Zeedo Chissis declares.






"Yes, and with the public satisfied that we no longer present a threat and the military focusing on the war, we will be able to move forward with our plans in secrecy.  I will contact Mubaas on our hidden base on Dathomir." 






Later that afternoon, Rykrof is approached by Governor Tarkin after a military briefing.

"Commander Enloe," the Governor says sternly.  "I have good news for you.  We have just intercepted a message tracing a terror cell of the Badoo Corba to the Dathomir system."

"We want them eliminated," he continues.  You are free to use any means necessary but we do not want the public to be aware of this mission.  This means your Wookiee companion may not accompany you."







"Fine.  How much time do I have to get a team assembled?" Rykrof asks.

"I will brief you at 1800 hours, after that you are free to assemble a squad," the Governor says.  Your shuttles will depart tomorrow at 0600 hours.  And once you complete your mission, you have my personal guarantee that you will be granted the leave of absence you have already requested."






As he prepares to hand pick a platoon of clone troopers, Rykrof hears his name being called by Anakin Skywalker.






"What is it, my Jedi friend?" Rykrof asks. 

"I was there when the Chancellor was attacked," Anakin says.  "I have already requested to go on this mission with you but am being forced to engage in battle on the front lines.  May the Force be with you in your search for the monsters responsible for this attack."







Later, Rykrof and Ralbarr are approached by an old friend, Finis Valorum.  Breaking a direct order, Rykrof informs Valorum of his conversation with Governor Tarkin.

"Something's not right here," Valorum warns.   

"I agree, and for some reason Ralbarr is restricted from going on this mission," Rykrof says.







"I tell you, something else is out of place," Valorum insists.  "Trigg Fuuda was caught much too quickly, and they haven't revealed any details regarding how they found him or where his body is."

"And you should be concerned that they won't allow non-humans to participate in many military engagements lately.  They should be letting Ralbarr accompany you on this mission.  Watch your back, Rykrof.  Be prepared for anything."







Finis Valorum then quickly walks away, as if afraid he might be seen by someone.

"Ralbarr, let's keep this conversation between us for now," Rykrof then says to his Wookiee friend.






That evening, thousands of clone troopers board Republic cruisers to travel to distant planets in the war.







As Rykrof prepares to depart with his small strike force, he bids farewell to his friends, not telling Tylin of his conversation with Finis Valorum. 

But the words of the wise old man have awakened an old fear within Rykrof's very soul.  A dark fear that began a decade earlier when his planet was invaded by the Trade Federation.  And now the fear that forces of darkness will emerge victorious in this war.






Meanwhile, Darth Sidious meets once again with his apprentice. 

"My lord, we have seen the end of Trigg Fuuda, and soon we will see the end of the Jedi," Darth Tyrannus says proudly.  "Once the ultimate weapon is complete, no star system in the galaxy will defy us."






"Good... good," Darth Sidious says.  "But the Badoo Corba are still a threat.  For now we will allow for them to survive... as they may serve our purposes by eliminating a Republic officer I have come to suspect."

"I will not allow a respected military leader such Rykrof Enloe to begin to question his superiors.  See to it that he meets his end on Dathomir.  Have a fleet awaiting him once he reaches the system.  If he somehow survives the fleet, surely the Badoo Corba will finish him and what is left of his strike force..."






"...and it will only be a matter of time before the powers hidden on Rhen Var are revealed," Darth Tyrannus adds.






"...yes my friend, the final days of the Jedi Order are approaching."



TO BE CONTINUED...


 

...and the series continues...











Above the surface of the planet Cholganna, a Republic strike force engages in a fierce battle with several Assault Cruisers of the Trade Federation.  Hoping to destroy the droid production facility on the surface, the Republic has thus far been unable to penetrate the powerful shield protecting the valuable installation.





With the droid production plant still protected, dozens of Vulture Droid patrols scan the outlying perimeters of the jungle surrounding the facility, where several small generators hidden in the dense foliage power the facility's shield.





But unknown to the Separatists, a small strike force led by Commander Rykrof Enloe has already landed on the surface undetected. 

With the coordinates to several generators in their possession, the team is poised to inflict a heavy blow on the Separatist war effort.  A malfunction of just one of the four generators protecting the droid facility will temporarily disable the entire shield generator.





During the march, the team comes across several downed Republic ships in the forest that had attempted earlier bombing runs on the shield generators...





...they find many of the ships to be missing their pilots, who appear to have been dragged away by local predators.

After briefing before the mission, Rykrof is well aware that the native life on Cholganna can be more deadly than the droid army being created on the planet. 





As the Republic soldiers continue towards the eastern shield generator as planned, a pair of lethal Nexu approaches the group.





The first troopers to spot the deadly beasts immediately open fire on the savage hunters...





...but they are too late to save one of their brethren.





With its mate killed the surviving Nexu scampers off into the forest.





"Commander, JT-54 has been killed in action," one of Rykrof's troopers says without emotion.  "We should continue towards our objective before more of these creatures return."





Under normal circumstances, Rykrof would give the fallen soldier a proper burial, but realizes the urgency of completing the mission.






"Agreed," he says as he looks down at the dead Nexu.  "Everyone prepare to move out.  This operation will fail if we take time to bury our dead."






Quickly but carefully, the group makes it way through the jungle, keeping in deep cover to hide themselves as much as possible from observation by the enemy on the mesa far above.





Hours later, the group approaches the coordinates of the eastern shield generator.  As expected, a droid vanguard is spotted protecting it.





With only one Geonosian present with a small company of battle droids, Rykrof gives the order to attack.





Surrounding the droid outpost, Rykrof's team of clone troopers moves in for the kill.





In a flash one droid is down.





Before the battle droids can register they are under attack, Rykrof's force moves in with swift and deadly force.





The droids attempt to regroup and respond with a concussion wave of laser blasts at the advancing threat...

 



...but faced with comparable numbers, the clone troopers soon advance on the enemy position.





As the blaster fire begins to die down, Ralbarr emits a victorious roar as he raises the lifeless body of the Geonosian captain assigned to protect the eastern generator.

 



Suddenly two more battle droids come clattering down from the shield generator towards the Republic strike team.

 



Charging towards the advancing droids, Rykrof fires off several quick shots...





...destroying both in a flurry of blaster fire.





Moments later the group secures the eastern shield generator.

"This is it," Rykrof says.  "Let's disable this thing and get out of here."





"Right away, Sir!" his demolition expert replies.





Charging a compressed ion disruptor, the clone demolition expert quickly disables the shield.

 



As soon as the group verifies with the orbital command that the shield is down, Rykrof's team races back to their drop zone for their hidden gunship.





With the shield down, the Republic assault force soon approaches the droid facility, decimating the infrastructure.






Within less than an hour, the entire facility is lost.





Hours later, the Republic fleet regroups after destroying the droid facilities of Cholganna.





"We were lucky today Ralbarr," Rykrof says to his friend.  "It's not every day that we're going to be able to go into a situation like that and come out on top."





The mighty Wookiee grunts in agreement as Rykrof departs to make contact with his wife, Alyssa.





"How are you Alyssa?" Rykrof asks once he is able to contact his wife on Naboo.

 



"I'm here, Rykrof... trying to get a grip on myself... and praying every night and half of each day," she says softly. 

"How much longer will it be until you can come home?"





"The war has just begun," he says.

"But I'll always be with you Alyssa, during the war and after," Rykrof says.  "Even if I don't return, I will always be with you."





Meanwhile, several Separatist leaders meet to discuss the loss of the droid facility on Cholganna.






"This is a disaster," Trade Federation Viceroy Nute Gunray exclaims to his colleagues.

"General Grievous must be held accountable for the loss on Cholganna.  That facility was financed by the Trade Federation!"





"Perhaps we should speak with Count Dooku," Corporate Alliance chief aide Denaria Kee replies. 





"Viceroy!" General Grievous hisses at the group of Confederate leaders.





"You fool!" he continues.  "You dare challenge my command yet you lack the courage to confront me head on!  When you have concerns over the war you cower and scheme with your fellow grubs!"





"My only concern, General, is that droids should follow orders, not give them," Viceroy Nute Gunray replies.

"Pathetic cretin!  The Confederacy does not require your military assessments to overthrow the Republic!" Grievous retorts.

 



"Surely you both understand we are committed on a broad scale across the galaxy," Count Dooku interrupts.

"As important as the facility on Cholganna was, there are many other priorities we must consider,” Dooku says.





"I have just received word from my Master that we will be proceeding soon with the assault on Rhen Var.  I assure you that our losses on Cholganna will be long forgotten by the gains made from our next assault."



TO BE CONTINUED...

 
 

Ok gang, here is the 8th chapter in the remakes of the Rykrof Enloe series.  Thoughts/comments/feedback is always appreciated.












The Clone Wars have begun.  As the galaxy becomes torn apart by the first full scale war since the formation of the Republic, hundreds of thousands of clone troopers board starships destined for countless worlds in the name of freedom.

Although the Republic has recently won a crucial battle to protect its precious clone facilities on Kamino, the victory is short lived as Ambassador Tame Heem has become stranded on the distant planet Spahl VII.  Without the Ithorian’s influence, it is feared that many members of the Galactic Senate may side with the Separatist movement.





“We can ill afford for Ambassador Heem to become a prisoner of war,” Supreme Chancellor Palpatine says in a secret meeting on Coruscant. 





"I agree," the Supreme Chancellor's aid, Mas Amedda says.  "Without Ambassador Heem's influence, we run the risk of Ithor joining the Confederacy.

“We should act quickly and send a team to rescue him from the Spahl System.  Commander Enloe on Naboo has a garrison that is ready.”





“But rumors persist that Count Dooku is there,” Chancellor Palpatine says.  “Surely Commander Enloe and his troops are no match for a Sith Lord.  He would need a Jedi escort in order to have any chance for success.”





“That could be arranged,” Jedi Master Mace Windu says.  “The Jedi will assist in this operation.  Masters Riin and Timbuu will go in separately to distract Dooku’s army so Commander Enloe can attempt this rescue.”





The only inhabitable planet in the Spahl System, the war ravaged planet Spahl VII has become a shell of its former glory.  While the Separatist strategy had been to secure the planet’s rich ore mines, the Republic has attempted to rescue the political leaders of the battered planet.





In the province Ontaris, dozens of battle droid patrols scour the region in search for rumored Republic infiltrators.





“There is no sign of the Jedi, Sir,” a droid informs Count Dooku, who oversees the planet’s transition to Separatist rule.





“Double your search,” the Dark Lord says.  “Two Jedi have arrived with reinforcements.  Their primary objective will be to find Ambassador Heem.” 





Meanwhile, several squads of clone troopers have landed on the outskirts of Ontaris.  Led by former Peace Office Rykrof Enloe, the teams plan to find the Ithorian Ambassador and then regroup with a team of Jedi who have already infiltrated the city. 





As Rykrof’s troops disperse, every soldier adheres to the mandatory order in restricting all transmissions to avoid the Separatists tracking the team, as the smallest mistake could lead to failure in the mission.





While a number of clone troopers move forward with Rykrof, several stay back in defensive positions to secure a hasty retreat if necessary.





Far sooner than expected, the troops are spotted by a probe droid.






Within moments several battle droids emerge from the shadows and open fire on the Republic troops.





The clone troopers find themselves heavily outnumbered by the droid army…





…but their rigorous training on Kamino has prepared each soldier in the Grand Army of the Republic for the horrors of war.





But with a numerical advantage, the droids continue to move forward…





…and the clones struggle to maintain their positions.





With most of his troops pinned down, Commander Rykrof Enloe slips away from the battle to make way for the panic zone, where he believes Ambassador Tame Heem will be hiding if he has not been captured.  With any luck, the Jedi will already have secured the position and be waiting for him.





Alone, he soon reaches the designated area, only to find the ambassador and Jedi are nowhere to be found.  Instead, he finds himself standing face to face with the leader of the Separatist movement, Count Dooku himself. 





“What’s this?” Dooku asks.  “A non-clone donning the armor of the Republic’s finest troops?  Don’t tell me your precious clone facilities have already run dry.  Perhaps another strike on Kamino will not be necessary.”






“Perhaps I can end this war right here with your surrender,” Rykrof replies as he raises his blaster.






“Or perhaps I shall end your pitiful existence right here and now,” Dooku replies.






In a flash, a beam of lightning shoots from the Dark Lord’s extended hand...






…and strikes Rykrof in the chest, knocking him to the ground.






As his entire body spasms from the shock of Dooku’s attack, Rykrof struggles to crawl away from the former Jedi.






Suddenly the two Jedi appear.

“Commander Enloe, contact a drop ship to evacuate you and our surviving troops at our designated evacuation point,” Master Ked Rinn says.  “We will rendezvous with you there shortly.”






“My Jedi friends,” Count Dooku says.  “What brings you here to Spahl VII?  Depart the system in peace and no harm will come to you.”





“We are Jedi, we wish no harm to you Count,” Master Rinn says.  “But you will come with us in peace to Coruscant to stand trial before the Jedi Council for the deaths on Geonosis.”





Meanwhile, Rykrof stumbles towards the evacuation point under orders from the Jedi.





Back in the panic zone, the Jedi are unable to arrest Count Dooku as a lighsaber duel commences.





After quickly killing Master Timbuu, Count Dooku taunts the lone surviving Jedi.





“Give yourself to the Dark Side,” Count Dooku says to Master Rinn.  “Don’t make yourself be destroyed as Master Timbuu did."

“No Jedi will follow your path of darkness,” Rinn replies defiantly.






“How mistaken you are,” Dooku says as he overpowers the Jedi Master.






Meanwhile, Rykrof’s troops continue to fall back as the droid army advances.






Rykrof soon finds his way to the evacuation point, which has also come under attack.





“Ralbarr, we’re can’t leave yet,” he yells.  “The two Jedi are in the panic zone and we have failed to find Ambassador Heem!  We need to call for reinforcements immediately!”






“There’s too many of them,” one clone shouts as more droids approach the evacuation zone.






Surrounding the gunship, the droids continue to move in for the kill.






“We can’t hold them,” another trooper shouts as he returns fire on the droids.






As the droids advance, a Federation tank enters the battle.






“Sir, the Separatists are blocking all transmissions and our fuel line has been hit,” a pilot informs Rykrof.  “We can’t call for help.  We must evacuate now.”

“Agreed,” Rykrof says.  “Then we’ll assemble a counterstrike and find the Jedi and Ambassador Heem.”






Once aboard their orbital cruiser, however, several Trade Federation battle cruisers enter the system.  Unaware of the fate of the Jedi and unsuccessful in the mission, Rykrof is forced to order a full retreat.






“I’ll report personally to the Chancellor,” Rykrof says aboard the ship as it prepares for the jump to hyperspace.  “We are going to have to assume the worst with regards to the Jedi and Ambassador Heem.”






Meanwhile back on the surface of Spahl VII, Count Dooku approaches Ambassador Tame Heem.

“Only two Jedi in the rescue attempt; a true pity,” Dooku says to his new ally with a twisted smile. 






“Yes, a somewhat weak force was sent,” Tame Heem says softly as he looks to the ground.

“Welcome to the Confederacy of Independent Systems Ambassador," Dooku then says.  "With your influence more systems will join this noble crusade.  And with your continued support, I will see to it that your planet is spared in this conflict.”



TO BE CONTINUED...