Suddenly Val feels it…something remote but stirring inside his body as his danger sense triggers his instincts of defense. He reaches forward and calls back his orange engagement saber back to his grasp while Gen quickly retrieves her own weapon and waits.

It isn’t Val who is able to determine the threat however as Lon watches in shock and utter disbelief as Varic’s gold ensconced body, revealing seared flesh and exposed skeletal regions leaps out of the pit of molten gold impossibly into the air as his one surviving, gold covered arm calls his Sith Sword back into his possession. He literally screams at the top of his lungs while gold rivulets stream from his steaming body and his bald head shimmers with the reflections of the cages above.

VARIC – NEVER OVER!!!!!!!

With the dark side of the force still under his control, even having been sliced up the middle and flung backwards Varic absolutely REFUSED to die. Using his pain and in desperation he erected a greater force shield as the gold surrounded him. However with the intense mass and unquenchable heat of the golden pit, Varic was unable to withhold the stubborn advance of the radiant liquid as it eventually breached his defenses. He desperately sought a means of escape and while enduring intolerable pain, Varic invested his remaining vigilance into a propelled force leap to break free of gravity’s hold.

Varic’s clothing was lost under the murky patches of burned, charred flesh and regions of metal clung to his body, embedded into his skin. His hair was completely burned away and the damage was so extensive to his physical form that regions of his skull peeked through the muscular tissue of his face and also sections of his arm and legs. He was absolutely terrifying to see and extremely gruesome, shimmering with golden radiance but his brain was still functioned and he had limited use of his tendons and muscular systems, thanks to the reconstructive vigilance of his genetic healing.

Val sees Varic rising into the air in a golden blur as he brings his lightsaber up to deflect any possible means of attack from Varic’s offense, but Lon has another strategy in mind. Focusing his eyes on the single remaining Universal Energy cage, Lon uses the power of the force to literally rip out the mechanized track above.

Val grabs Gen and dives out of the way as large beams of metal slam to the floor, raining like metallic boulders from above while the energy cage is forced to swing its door open.

LON – Hey Q-Ball! Heads up!

Varic flings high his semi-fleshed skull in wild surprise as his golden yellow orbs shimmered with dilated pupils. The image of the falling cage flashes along the lens of his eyes as he sees the metallic structure topple downward and ensnare him inside its belly.

LON – (speaks to Varic in the cage) Paybacks a bitch isn’t it?

Seconds later Lon observes Varic trapped in the Universal Energy cage plummet back into the illuminated, brilliant depths of the white-hot pit below in a splash of molten ferocity. This time because Varic is surrounded by the power of the cage’s force nullifying effects, even with his hyper healing abilities he cannot use the force to hold back the metal ocean as it consumes his flesh and bone, eroding away the last strand of his attachment to life as his clenched skeletal fingers went slack, while his tendons and veins melted away and the heated bullion splashed through his eye sockets and filled his cranial cavity.

With no possible hope of jumping bodies, erecting a Doppelganger, or holding back the metal from drowning him…

Varic was finally dead…

Val looks up to Lon and gradually returns to his feet, guiding Gen to follow. Wrapping Elixis’s cloak around his still naked form, Val smirks to Lon and begins to clap sarcastically. Lon returns Val’s grin back as he pulls Xola in his arms tight.

VAL – (grins) The Padawan finally understands what its like to be a Master.

LON – Hey, that’s one you owe me Master Versai.

VAL – (smirks) Yeah, put it on my tab…Don’t worry, you’ll get what’s coming to you later.

Val winks and then tugs on Gen’s hand to follow his ascent up the stairs of the dais, to where there still remains the holographic projector embedded within the floor. Lon shakes his head a moment then guides Xola up the stairs as well as he walks over to the three clone units, tracing the glass with his fingertips. It’s then that he sees Anakin Skywalker and Cire’s expired bodies on the floor.

LON – (kicks Cire’s body) Stupid bastard you killed my Grandfather. S’ok though, Val already took care of sending your butt to the scrap heap. I’ve sent Varic to join you…that makes us about square. If you even THINK of creating a Q3, rest assured I’ll be there to squash him.

XOLA – (blinks) Darlin who are you talking to?

LON – (looks to Xola) No one babe…just venting some frustration.

Xola pulls Lon away from the Cire clone as she kisses him. Conflicted by questions, Lon turns to face Val who is currently reconnecting a few severed wires to the holographic projector, so that it can function properly again.

LON – Just how did you screw death out of taking you anyway?

VAL – (speaks to Lon) Funny thing Lon. Varic is responsible for that. In his efforts to kill me, he made the mistake of telling me that he was composed of three strands of DNA. Not only that but the idiot even explained WHO they were. After seeing Cire and Anakin’s carcasses on the floor, it was pretty obvious what was in the last cylinder. That’s all I needed to know.

Lon nods eagerly, charged with his Master’s brilliance. Never in a million years would Lon have figured out that solution. It made sense why Val allowed Varic to finish him off, because Val knew it was simply as Varic has stated, “A means to an end.” Lon comforted Xola as Val fiddled with the control panel to the projector.

LON – You sure you’re not hurt there Xola? Any concealed injuries I don’t know about?

XOLA – (smirks) Darlin you can give me a full body inspection when we get back home.

LON – (grins) Is that so? I’m afraid I only have one hand at the moment.

XOLA – (whispers in Lon’s ear) I wasn’t talking about your hands dearest.

LON – (blinks) Then what the hell am I supposed to use? My tongue?

Xola paces along Lon’s shoulder then smiles to Gen as she looks afar while Val settles his feet into the center of the holographic platform, waiting for the machine to reach its maximum charge. Gen taps in a few coordinates while watching Xola seduce Lon with advice given to her previously in the past.

XOLA – (looks to Gen) Catches on quick doesn’t he?

GEN – (winks) He has a well suited instructor. A woman of your abilities should be able to adequately equip Lon with skills to master the pleasures of female camaraderie.

XOLA – (smiles) If I have any complications…I’ll call you.

LON – (blinks) Hey don’t I get any say in this? I’m damn sure I know how to ple…

Xola presses Lon up against the wall, stealing a page from Gen’s seduction playbook as she silences his concern with the advancement of her luscious breasts pressed into his chest, grinding her vivacious figure against his hips while capturing his words in a heated kiss as both star-crossed lovers close their eyes and savor the moment.
 

INTERIOR: VERSAI TECH – CENTRAL COMMAND

Unaware of Val’s rebirth inside the menacing Killian Bastion and Varic’s demise, Marc Jade continues to endure Skel’s endless taunts. Still assuming Val had perished, the self appointed Vice President of VT was alerted by a fellow crew member of another incoming transmission on a signal that could only come from one unique source.

With a refined grace Marc paced over towards a communications console, while Skel loomed overhead glaring with his reptilian eyes to his potential servants. A few moments pass before Marc gingerly walks away from the communication kiosk and turns to face Skel with a somber look upon his face.

MARC – (sighs) I’m afraid the unimaginable has occurred…Val has lost the duel. Versai Tech is yours but you will have to arrive on the surface to personally sign the ownership documentation Skel. I suppose I have no alternative but to call you… my superior.

Aboard The Swarth, Skel’s yellow orbs glisten with delight. Unlike Marc, the Killian Commander swiftly rises and triumphantly exits the bridge of his vessel, flanked by security as he boards a miniature organic looking shuttle, reestablishing his communication with Marcus while the craft exits a small exit in the massive Luxor armor plated ship.

SKEL – (com) Great is our power and supreme our might is. Realize this now you must…for rule you I shall Marcus Jade, just begun your incarceration has.

All of a sudden the pilot to the shuttle nervously squeals a series of words understood only in the Ssi Ruu native tongue as Skel’s eyes broaden to the size of dinner plates as he hears the navigator inform him of massive energy charges forming on the planetary surface below on an epic scale.

MARC – (grins) You know Skel, villains are not the only individuals capable of deception. Now it is time YOU experience the supremacy of our capable business practice. Your leader is dead…but weep not wretched creature, you shall be joining him momentarily.

SKEL – Impossible! Undefeatable Massster Q2 is! Lies you speak! LIIIIIIIIIIIIES!!!!!!

Inside Central Command, Marc beams proudly as he approaches a monitor and flips on Val’s youthful visage via a hologram as proof of his claims, with Gen smiling devilishly in the background. Skel sees the hologram aboard his small shuttle craft and screams in reptilian rage. Meanwhile Marc stands before another kiosk and resumes his conversation with Michael Angilis.

MARC – (confident) Michael Angilis, I believe we have entertained these lizards quite enough. Lock all primary planetary defense systems on the intruders and fire on my command. Especially on that one ship there…right in the middle.

Skel shivers in horror as he realizes the “one ship” happens to be his shuttle craft. He orders his pilot to fly back towards The Swarth but it is far too late. On the surface of Tuulab the ground rumbles and the earth trembles as wells of unstoppable green energy reach their maximum charge. Seconds later like thunder ripping across the skyline, several mammoth beams of lime green radiance burst from gargantuan weapon emplacements as the deadly salvos of hellfire exit Tuulab’s atmosphere and defy gravity. Skel widens his irises in horror as green luminescence consumes the viewport to his shuttle in its ethereal radiance. The colossal lances of coherent energy instantly consume the fleet of Shadow Serpents in their unrelenting, brilliant might.

A brief flicker and all that remains of the armada and their leader Skel vanishes in lime green ferocity. Marc gazes to the view screen and smiles broadly as cheers flood the interior. The crewman who had to put up with Skel’s endless taunts were now filled with overwhelming joy as they clapped for their surviving President and their superior Marcus Jade.

Marc grinned as he nodded his appreciation for the overwhelming festive nature of the room. All throughout Versai Tech from the planetary weapon emplacements to the lowest decks of the boiler rooms, all throughout the exterior and fighter bays, men, women, and children were applauding and laughing in glorious celebration.

Marc watched the image of space eventually shimmer away as the last threat to his position, let alone Val’s company finally reached it’s stunning resolution…Not more then a hour later floods of VT craft invaded The Killian Bastion and quickly overwhelmed the remaining members of The Sith and The Killian forces. Led by General Kalin Starr and flanked by Corerilla Dublon, the battalion entered the Throne Room and swiftly retrieved Val, Gen, Xola and Lon. Another hour passed as Skel’s priceless treasures from Republic history were reclaimed and any traces of value inside the estalibishment were confiscated, just as it had been with the previous Killian stronghold.

As their rescue vessels lifted off and exited the horrific lava filled surface of Borleais, Val, holding Skorne’s battle worn helmet in his hand and unbelievable as it may seem…Cire’s gold spattered Sith Sword immediately ordered the complete destruction of The Killian Bastion as a hundred capitol ships trained their destructive turbolasers upon the massive fortress and opened fire, bombarding the planet with vibrant shafts of green hellfire, raining from space.

Throughout the Bastion the walls exploded and showers of fire and flaming debris set off a chain reaction all the way through the halls and corridors of the castle. Bolts of massive energy slammed through the roof and everywhere the eye could see as the fortified structure fell to the cannon’s superior strength. Symbolically the last element to reach its extinction was the immense painting of Cire T’Negun Skel once admired slowly curling as flames engulfed his image, signifying the end of his legacy and his curse.

The last remnants of The Killian…

Were gone.
 

ONE MONTH LATER…
 

INTERIOR: THE VERSAI MANSION – LON’S QUARTERS

Even a month could not wash away the traumatic memories of Varic’s tyranny as Lon Wol was revealed amidst a pale blue, moonlit night as the moon’s radiance bathed the trees and the luxurious exterior to the Versai Mansion in a dazzling pale cerulean splendor outside of his quarters.

Here Lon sat inside his room awaiting rather odd directives from Sacul to remain and wait for his further instructions. Whatever was being planned began to give Lon the creeps after his battle with Varic inside the former Killian stronghold, he felt a new sense of adventure sweep over his body. Lon gazed down to his new prosthetic right hand, clenching his fingers tight then releasing them while smoothing his synthoid flesh with his left hand.

You couldn’t even tell that he had lost his original limb from the sensations of his new appendage. It clenched and released with concealed mechanical tendons just as a normal hand would function…he even felt pain from it. Missing however was the Hssiss brand he once carried with him, a memory that Varic stripped from Lon’s possession…at least in the physical sense.

Lon watched as the handle to his door turned while Sacul, dressed in formal attire gestured for Lon to follow him. There was an eerie silence throughout the local as Lon descended the velvet red steps, noting the fireplace lit but aside from Sacul there was no longer anyone living in sight.
 

EXTERIOR: VERSAI MANSION – DEEP FOREST

Sacul led Lon through the gilded exit of the mansion, down a walkway illuminated by flickering torches while the night air and gothic ambiance sent a chill down Lon’s spine. What was going on? Why was Sacul being so silent all of a sudden? Where did everyone go? Where was Xola? Nothing made much sense as Lon continued to gaze to the trees surrounding him. Deeper and deeper Sacul led Lon into the encompassing forest. Lon observed the bloodstains on the shattered sheet of metal swaying in the breeze from his training long ago where he met with failure and eventually with the aid of his Master triumphed over adversity. The same sheet of metal he had punched through rapidly upon learning and evoking the technique Val had revealed to him. Suddenly Sacul stopped and pointed towards a large environment littered with statures and other various stone foundations and works of artistic mastery.
 

EXTERIOR: VERSAI MANSION – CEREMONIAL ALTER

It reminded Lon of a freaking graveyard as he passed through an iron gate following a twisted path that eventually swerved around the corner. There he was met with what looked to be a stone alter set atop a flight of stone stairs and two massive pits of fire set ablaze on both sides of the structure. Horrified as it appeared Lon was relieved to see a giant limestone insignia at the peak of the stairway.

It was the Versai Crest…the older, classic version without the gold ring surrounding it and contained the triangular wedge that had eventually disappeared in the contemporary design. Lon still gazed to the insignia confused as he scratched his head, wrapping his new silver and black ornamental tunic around him. Sacul had instructed the Padawan to follow him dressed only in a two piece black pair of pants and a long sleeved sweater in addition to his silver tunic and nothing more. Lon wasn’t wearing his gloves or his body glove so he knew it couldn’t possibly be another combative test devised by Master Versai.

Then he observed the first shimmer of recognition that somewhat tabled his concerns. Approaching in unison from the left and right were two figures clad in long ceremonial robes. The person on the left contained elements of gold and purple in the design of their garment while the figure on the right relied more on a gold and crimson motif balanced by the overall black garb. It looked to be some sort of mystic runic pattern that traveled down the front and around the sleeves of each individual’s ceremonial attire.

Clearly Lon was beginning to understand just why this occurrence was being conducted with such mystery and dramatic foreshadowing. As the two figures met at the center, standing before the alter the first slid back its hood to reveal the stunning curled tips of Gen’s hair, followed by the glint of fire shimmering along the purple iris of her eyes.

Second, the opposing figure drew back its hood to reveal the younger visage of Val. Both were returned to their prime years of 25 and looked absolutely radiant standing arm and arm with one another while they both gazed down to Lon below.

Suddenly Lon glanced to his left as his beautiful fiancée Xola Neesan appeared, followed by Lance Jade, Sara Versai, Corerilla Dublon, Marc Jade, and Kalin Starr. Here they all were now; invited to attend what would become the most memorable event in Lon’s Dark Jedi training…

The ceremony of Master Hood…

Xola gingerly walked up to Lon and kissed him slowly before stepping aside to Lon’s far left while the other invited witnesses smiled, winked, or nodded before settling next to Lon’s fiancée as Val and Gen commanded their attention with their presence.

VAL – Lon Wol…You have been a friend and an inspiration to those who have known you. For endless years I have attempted to excel your training to a level of acceptability by the standards of the new Dark Jedi Arts I have reintroduced into the world. Although I have reshaped this order, it was Headmaster Gen Zeridian who brought about the rise of this lifestyle.

Val smiles towards Gen and sweeps his fingers along her back, looking from the ground up until his eyes meet her sparkling gaze. Drawing in a deep breath, Val then returns his focused brown eyes to Lon, seeking to maintain a level of control as he conducts what was once performed for him years ago within the walls of the Dark Jedi Academy.

VAL – You however abandoned your training not once or twice but on THREE occasions. This is a trait that does not fit an individual who deserves to attain master hood. Nevertheless, you have also remained vigilant and dedicated to continue your instruction beyond distraction or intimidation. This atones for your mistakes made.

Lon nervously shifts his foot in the earth as he listens to Val point out his imperfections as a student. This was a trait that the ambitious student always feared…when their mentors pointed out more flaws then they would like.

VAL - I would also like to add that you have endured trials the likes you should never had to have been forced to endure and have sacrificed a part of yourself to see to the survival of not only yourself but those you cherish. Lon Wol I thank you for bringing about the final destruction of Varic and proving beyond a shadow of a doubt from your ability to endure unimaginable pain…that you truly are worthy to become an equal with the founders of the Dark Jedi legacy.

LANCE – Way to go Looney Wolf! You tell him Val!

SARA – Honey! Please! They’re not finished yet.

CORRIE – Yeah that’s Val for ya, always obsessed with the whole “suspense” thing.

Val smiles briefly towards Lance and winks.

VAL – I cannot stress to you enough that attaining master hood is only the FIRST STEP in realizing your potential as a fighter and as a human being. Many more tests and conflicts are sure to arise far beyond what transpires here tonight. When those challenges surface, I trust you will have the tools you need to overcome them. As far as I am concerned your training as a “Padawan” is complete…

LON – Yay so I’m a master now, where is my fancy diploma?

VAL – (smirks) No…not yet. Gen hasn’t had her chance to address you and she of all people knows how to sift out the worthy from the pretenders.

Val gestures to Gen, then steps away from the center of the alter while Gen assumes center stage. She runs her fingers through her purple tresses then calculates her words as her gaze sends a shiver down Lon’s spine once more while the fire pits cascade her robe in flickering shadows.

GEN – Lon Wol…When first I laid eyes upon you, you were nothing more to me then an impulsive, stubborn, insecure, under trained Padawan who had much to learn about what it means to possess the skill and stature befitting of a true Dark Jedi Master. This does not mean that I did not respect nor appreciate you. Had we met years ago inside my public domain you would lasted not more then a week under my instruction…however you’ve shown much growth over the time that has passed.

LON – Gee thanks…

GEN – (smiles a bit) As I once stated, I have admired your affinity for detail. It is that attention to detail that allowed you to surpass every obstacle that has been presented before you. I have witnessed first hand you evolve from a child into a true man of virtue and endurance. I may now call you a true friend. Additionally…you have proven through your deeds and unshakable willpower that you truly appreciate the honor and prestige of becoming a true master.

LON – What can I say? I have a lust for life and a thirst for adventure! Thanks to your fiancée I’ve come to appreciate the more…ravishing things in life and have found people worth fighting for. I have a beautiful wife to be and friends I would give my life to protect…I truly feel like I’m accepted for who I am and where I rightfully belong.

Lon holds up his prosthetic hand and gestures to the absence of the Hssiss brand.

LON - The past is history…all I can see now is what lies ahead in the future.

Gen nods approvingly as she gazes into a parting of bushes in the very back of the torch lit arena. Her glistening purple orbs glisten as she licks her lips in thought. Passing through the foliage another figure paces into the establishment, also in a black robe that covers his identity. Red flames streak along the regions of his cloak and gold bands of twisted metal in a tribal tattoo pattern encircle his sleeves as he brushes past Lon and climbs the steps of the alter.

FIGURE – I must object to the induction of this individual into the Dark Jedi folds. You of all people, Gen realize that no one can enter our flock until ALL the founding members reach an agreement and I still have my say in this matter.

Gen perks a curious brow but Val motions for her to step aside as the mysterious intruder takes to the floor. His body language shows no signs of personality, only rigid seriousness. He clutches the side of the alter as he glares into Lon’s soul.

LON – Hey wait a minute if you think you can just come in here and….(cut off)

FIGURE – SILENCE! I have the floor and I will seize my opportunity to speak.

Lon snaps his mouth shut as the figure’s intimidating words sends another barrage of shivers down his spine. Here was Gen and Val giving him all the comfort he needed and this new guy comes in here and starts treating Lon like a child again! The very thought attempted to distract Lon from keeping his mouth closed and Lon allowed reason to overtake his emotion. If Val and Gen had heeded to this centralized specter then he must be important enough to add his two cents.

Lon watched as the solitary shadow walked down the steps and halted along the floor not more then three feet away from him. Lon tried to see into the darkness of the figure’s raised hood but even with the aid of the torchlight it was impossible to see who was before him.

FIGURE – Approach the stairs…now, Zeridian and Versai, you also.

Val and Gen both pace down the stairway until they flank the mysterious individual between them as all three robed figures stand ominously before the lowly Padawan. Suddenly the middle figure snaps his fingers out and yanks the silver tunic from Lon’s body.

FIGURE – You are no longer worthy to wear this.

LON – Hey, just wait one damn minute here…

FIGURE – (growls) Ya know, this is why I left you in the first place boy…you can’t seem to listen when it matters most.

Lon raises his eyebrow trying to place where he’s heard that particular dialogue before as the figure ends the apprehension, tossing back its hood to reveal Foe Raker standing eye to eye with him. Although Lon was still ticked at Foe for leaving him high and dry, it did in the long run force Lon to suck it up and really focus hard on achieving his goals. Foe was a more caustic instructor but ultimately without his limited guidance, Lon would have never been able to endure the pain Varic forced him to suffer inside the Universal Energy cage.

FOE  – Ya see Lon, you can’t become a master until ALL THREE of the founders of the original Dark Jedi Academy agree and there ain’t no way in hell I’m lettin Val or Gen put anythin around your neck unless I get to do the honors personally.

Lon smiles a bit as he exhales relieved. Foe nods confidentially as he motions for Lon to kneel to one knee. The reason Foe tore off Lon’s tunic was revealed as Foe drapes a mirror image of Lon’s tunic back along his shoulders, however this time the silver is replaced with vibrant gold accents. Foe then reaches inside his cloak and produces an ancient looking lightsaber, a design the likes Lon has never seen before. Similar to Qui Gon Jinn’s design, it possessed an organic looking casing where regions of black peeked through a metallic skin that wove all around the surface of the hilt. Along the bottom was a claw like shroud similar to Gen’s design but it contained a vibrant blue jeweled sphere clutched in the center, not too different from the orange ball Q2 had in his heatsaber.

The emitter consisted of several organic prongs which reflected the look of Neptune’s trident staff, four in number. Although the elegance was tarnished by rust and scratches it was clear the weapon needed some serious maintenance, but its significance to Foe was great.

FOE – Here, if you’re gonna try and pull off the whole “Val” look you’re gonna need to have two sabers. I see ya got your first one but ya happen to have lost your Grand Pappy’s relic. This one has been in the Raker family for generations…I ain’t got no kids right now so I’m passing it on to you. Ya better take care of it Lon or you’re gonna be prying my boot from your butt. Got it?

LON – Umm ok I guess that’s a compliment? Thanks Foe…

FOE – We had our differences Lon, but all that matters is that in the end…Val told me ya came through.

Lon nods in agreement as Foe steps away while Val and Gen motion for Lon to join them as they return to the top of the alter. Garbed in his fancy new gold tunic, Lon awaits further instruction as Val, Gen, and Foe all reach for their lightsabers and hold them over the slab of stone, now revealed to contain a circle with lines leading to each of the Master’s crests. Freshly etched into the surface was now Lon’s “LW” crest which signified his final acceptance into the fold.

VAL – Lon, when you ignite your lightsaber in unity with us, you ceremonially accept the death of your former life as a student and enter your new life as a Dark Jedi Master as we all have done in the past. You have joined an elite lifestyle that will continue to demand no less then your best effort to uphold the code of the warrior and do what is necessary to ensure you remain true to who you truly are.

GEN – (smiles to Val) You of all people had best not forget that either Beloved. You must practice what you preach.

VAL – (grins) Don’t worry about me baby, my doubts perished with my former body. I no longer bare the burden of carrying the memories of the Jedi Slayer nor the frailties of Cire’s curse.  After tomorrow sweetie, you’ll be Mrs. Gen Zeridian Versai. I have something rather unique planned.

GEN – Do tell…

VAL – (smirks) If I told you, I’d ruin the surprise.

GEN – Always with you it requires mystery and suspense…It can never once be simple.

VAL – (smiles) If I recall someone once told me, “Since when has anything we have endured been traditional?”

Gen smacks Val in the shoulder playfully as she gazes into his glimmering eyes. She can see the mirrored reflection of the man she fell in love with all those years ago inside the Dark Jedi Academy. Having faced impossible odds and tread through the most extreme circumstances, finally history would correct the wrong it inflicted upon the two dedicated soul mates. Lost in each other’s eyes, they momentarily neglect their responsibility.

FOE – (snaps his fingers) Hey bro we gonna do this thing or what?

Val smirks towards Foe then smiles seductively towards Gen as they return their focus upon the task at hand. Gen is the first to extend her shimmering purple blade, followed by Val who overlays her vibrating shaft with his fiery orange brilliance emitted from the engagement saber. Foe then extends the crimson red blade of his weapon atop Val’s length which left the last blade to settle into place to complete the pattern.

Reaching down with a deep breath, Lon ignited his emerald green blade with a SNAP HISS. United in color and positioned across the alter, finally Lon had concluded the last step towards finishing his quest.

He had finally become A Dark Jedi Master.
 
 
 

EXTERIOR: VERSAI MANSION – COURTYARD
 
 

(If for some reason you feel confused on how to picture the stage, please refer to the image provided as this is a very difficult structure to translate into words)
 

The next day…
 

Far from the privacy of the night before, the scene opens to reveal an extremely busy atmosphere. Roughly a mile south of the main Versai Mansion, a great structure has been erected for a most momentous occasion…an event of such importance and prestige that Val has personally opened the doors to Alpha Xeridia to his friends, family, and VT co-workers to witness the most important moment in his life.

No expense is sparred as we gaze upon a vast open field covered in exotic tents and swarms of chairs lined up around a colossal structure of romantic splendor. Rising towards the heavens were shimmering silvery steel curved panels that literally swept down in smoothed curved arcs. This set the stage for the grand spectacle which would be viewed all across the galaxy for those who were not cleared to attend. There were three of these architectural masterpieces crafted on each side of the central podium which made a grand total of six with the first being the tallest as the sunlight glistened brilliantly along the smoothed surfaces and trailed down the series of vertical bevels which ran equally spaced within each curved section, while rare white leaved trees peeked from behind them.

Bushes and flowers of all kinds were scattered along the surroundings lending an almost tropical feeling to the environment. Behind the stage were large rose trees, vastly superior then anything that could be attained on earth by our standards as the breeze carried their fragrant scent across the landscape. With Val’s tremendous wealth and vigorous ambition to enjoy life to the fullest within his new clone body alongside his fiancée, he has devised an event that has rarely ever been attempted before on such a grand scale.
 

The wedding of Valaryc and Gen Versai…

And…

Lance and Sara Versai…

And finally…

Lon Wol and Xola Neesan.

It was a wedding the likes few have ever witnessed before in the galaxy for Val had specifically designed the celebration to feature all three weddings at practically the same time! A feat that was as challenging as facing the incredible odds against Varic and the dark side, but on a more welcomed level and with such a giant task at hand, it was properly choreographed.

The Best Men would proceed down the runway first, followed by the Grooms and finally the Brides. Neither couple would conclude the full ceremony until all three of them were on the stage together. This was arranged in this manner so that they would not have to be driven apart again after all of the turmoil they have endured to reach this phase in their lifetime. It was the ultimate display of both friendship and love between groups of people who had grown stronger as one unified circle.

With that friendship it was also a way for Val to pass on his gratitude for the actions of his former Padawan and his best friend who had suffered tremendously through injury after injury to overcome the odds to marry their cherished females.

The stage alone was absolutely awe inspiring with a traditional wooden platform and a sand blasted silver metallic runway which led to the alter where vows would be exchanged, treading upon a shimmering red carpet on a platform raised above the alcoves of a sea of chairs stretching along the left and right side of the stage. Located in the center of the massive brown stone juncture was a large octagonal view screen that would reveal all of the important details of the bride and groom when the ceremony was underway in living, breathing, high-definition color and stunning audio. Above the expansive screen was a stain glass window which contained in the center the Versai crest artistically forged within the multi colored glass shards of purple, blue, pink, yellow, tan, and cerulean pastel fragments.

Behind the roughly three story metallic panels, loomed luxurious black onyx fountains which contained lines of a sky blue gemstone that mirrored the effects of the stained glass window, giving the fountains a shattered glass motif. From the center of each fountain was a flowing trail of glistening water that emptied into another fountain below it, then collected in a reservoir hidden from view where the water was then recycled back into the fountain into a endless loop. Beautiful strands of pink flowers also were placed upon the surface of the monuments, as if they grew out of the onyx itself.

Set atop and just before the central stage were two large, identical rock formations. Each faced at a roughly forty-five degree angle and appeared to be slabs of stone settled upon one another at varied spaces which added a sense of visual harmony, not to mention the texture which was a gold metallic fleck. The speckled texture changed colors as you walked around the structures, shifting from gold, to yellow, to greens, and even deeper oranges. The whole establishment was an optimum stability of man made objects blending with nature, blending with art, and finally mixing with serenity.

Currently the local was bustling with hired wedding staff and caterers as carts of silver were rushed into the dining tents created for the gala reception later that evening. The stage was set up and it took nearly the entire month before it was finished but it would remain an icon within the eyes of those lucky enough to witness its beauty and the man behind its construction, live and in person.

Already guests were taking their seats as they peered up to the stage, awaiting the festivities to commence with roughly another half hour before the wedding was to begin. Some were dressed in the traditional tuxes and ties and some chose to remain in their VT uniforms, to display their affection and pride in support of the President of Versai Tech. The women were of course more emotionally sound and used the occasion to put on their best gowns and glorious flowing fabrics to sit or stand arm in arm with their adoring mates which blended wonderfully as their white, blue, pink, and purple dresses dotted the grassy seating area.

Meanwhile, backstage the ordained minister was studying over the unique lines for this sensational unity and not too far away in several other private areas of the grand scale location were the brides and grooms preparing themselves for the experience that has been long overdue.

LON – (peeking out a curtain) Wow…it’s like a freaking amusement park out there. I don’t like have to give a speech do I? Just the exchanging the vows thing right? I’m horrible at giving presentations! Yeeeeesh those people make me nervous. Good thing I’m not holding the ring. Where is Val anyway?

Lon was dressed in a traditional tuxedo, with black slacks and a suit coat, but the upper regions of the attire were adorned with the same type of stained-glass motif on his lightsaber, crafted in gold lining. His hair was neatly gelled giving him that adventures blonde “swirl” to his bangs that he admired and knew drove Xola to melt in his arms.

Lance decided on the more military approach as he ordered his VT uniform altered for the occasion, so that it wasn’t purple but it still held the gold stripes along the cuffs of his suit and the extra bars running along his shoulders. Under his coat he had on a nice white shirt, which had a series of folds woven together to give his attire a real pirate like touch of class, with several double buttons running up the center of his chest.

LANCE – (smirks) Lon, you’ll be fine…stop knocking your knees together and relax already. I’m sure he’ll be here, Gen will be furious if he’s late. He told me he had to take care of a personal matter. Don’t worry no one is going to be paying too much attention to speeches, they all came for one thing and as much as I admire Val’s humility to share this event with the two of us…you and I both know this is really Val and Gen’s special moment.

LON – I’m surprised he wanted all of us to share it! I mean he’s been waiting for what? How long? 26 years to get hitched? He deserves it Lance, he really deserves to finally relax and take a vacation. After all the hell we went through inside Varic’s Bastion, I’m so ready to return back to the Wol Estate.

LANCE – (grins) Well Looney Wolf I suppose you’re strong enough now to carry that ice blue bombshell of yours across the threshold eh?

Lon looks slowly and traces his fingers along the synthoid flesh of his prosthetic hand and breathes slowly, still recovering from the absence of his true appendage and the Hssiss brand that used to burden his thoughts with each glance.

LON – Some things have healed Lance…other scars can’t be so easily mended.

Lance perks a brow and brushes his hands along his military trimmed hairline before adjusting his suit and walking over to Lon, resting a hand on his shoulder while listening to the crowd of people converse outside. Lance attempts to relate to the loss Lon had endured when Lord Overseer and Lady Carnage butchered his family all those years ago and it was clear that one day…all the details would come to light and perhaps just as Val’s history has been settled and written into stone, one day Lon would reach the same resolution.

LANCE – Lon, listen to me…Soon you are going to have a beautiful wife to wash away those scars and watch over you, give you support in your darkest hour and complete a part of you that’s been missing. You need to remember that you’re a Dark Jedi Master now, you’ve still got other challenges to face but now its not longer just about what you desire…you’ll have a wife to look after and eventually children to pass on your knowledge. There will be plenty of time for past reflections…for now, just dwell on the thought that you are part of the greatest and noblest circle of friends this galaxy has to offer.  That is a feat, few can ever attain.

LON – (smiles) Yeah you know you’re right. Xola is all I’ve ever wanted in a woman…its high time I marry the girl, that way she can’t get away. (winks)

Lance paces towards the door to the tent and gestures for Lon to follow him, as he nods with a mischievous smile towards Lon’s comment about marrying before the girl “gets away”. Oh yes, although Lance was playing the voice of reason he was eager to stare into the dazzling eyes of his green eyed goddess. The brides, true to tradition were not seen for the last couple days and Lance was anxious to see what Sara looked like in her wedding dress. Sacul addresses the sea of guests, signaling the beginning of the day’s proceedings.

LANCE – (blinks) Blast…He better get back here soon, he’s running out of time. I believe that’s our cue to take our places and wait for our blushing brides to be to arrive. Come on boy move your butt! Times a wasting!

LON – (blinks) Ok, ok! I’m moving, I’m moving!

Lance smirks as he points Lon in the direction of the stage while Val still remains no where to be seen. What would cause him to miss this opportunity? What could possibly be more important then being there with plenty of time before his wedding? Ah but there was still one matter left unsettled and Val being a man of his word had one last debt to straighten out.
 

INTERIOR: VERSAI MANSION – TERRA’S MAUSOLEUM

The dashing pirate and the newly attained Dark Jedi Master begin to make their way down to the final red velvet covered structure which led to a flight of stairs onto the elevated runway stretching to the platform of the erected chapel. Distanced away blanketed in torchlight that glistens off polished ivory carved statues in dim light, Val is revealed.

He gazes up to a sculpture of his daughter, like a moment captured in time as she stands proudly in a masterpiece of carved marble on a multi-beveled pedestal, with a gold and black plaque that reads…

TERRA T’NEGUN VERSAI

“SHE IS A SHINING LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS THAT WILL NEVER EXTINGUISH. HER MEMORY LIVES ON.”

Terra is displayed baring the coy smile she used to have when she was alive; her eyes vibrant and full of a passion for life while in her within her hands are her prized javelins. Her body is featured in her form fitting cat suit, devoid of her mother’s insignia and instead, replaced with Versai Crests in gold along her breasts.

This is the visage that Val wanted others to remember his daughter, at her happiest, strongest hour when she trained to attain master hood. Her black locks cascaded down her shoulders, but some of the strands were swept in a simulated, sculpted wind as Val traced along her cheek with his bare fingers, gazing as if he could see into her soul.

Set before the statue is a metal groove of significant importance. Although it has been left vacant, this slit was specially added a month after to the platform to carry out just what Val had intended upon learning of the true nature of Terra’s murder and the people involved.

As he and Gen both made a vow to discover the people responsible and bring justice to Terra’s demise, those inhabitants were now lost in a blanket of eternal damnation. Val still did not feel that his oath was settled until he set one element in place…literally. Although Val had properly placed Terra’s ashes inside the cavity of the statue base, he still knew her burial wasn’t finished.

His love for his daughter was so incredibly deep that he even vowed before he exchanged his vows with Gen, that as a father…he would not allow his daughter’s spirit to remain unsettled. This is why Val has not attended his celebration just yet, to complete the journey that started by the one element he holds clenched in his grasp…

Cire’s Sith Sword…

VAL – (talking to the figurine) My beloved daughter…I miss you so very much. I swore to you I would not rest until your murder was avenged. So then does this bring me here before you now. Skorne is dead and Elixis alongside him. I now understand that this sword represents the last remainder of Cire’s curse. If Skorne had not broken into Versai Tech to steal it back…none of this would have happened.

Val wipes back a few tears as he rises to his feet, not even dressed properly for his wedding in nothing more then a black turtle neck tank top and a pair of dark pants. He gazes for a little while at the details of Terra’s monument, while shifting his gaze to the menacing half moon, jagged gold hilt of Cire’s deadly weapon. Such a lengthy legacy was created by this one instrument of destruction. Originated by Vachon T’Negun it had in some way or another systematically killed off the entire T’Negun bloodline. Ironic since Vachon’s intentions were the exact same things she wished it to inflict upon the Versai, who had in the end survived the raging feud between the two families.

Composing himself, Val stands strong within the flickering torches and smoothed stone chamber as he peers down to the metallic slot and seeks to complete the circle sworn to his daughter, so that she may finally find her peace within the force.

Val flips around Cire’s sword so the blade faces down as he slides it into the base of Terra’s statue until there is a audible click when magnetic clamps inside the base of the shrine seal Cire’s sword in perfect vertical alignment for all time into place, while the hilt and handle settle before Terra’s stone feet, signifying the triumph she had over her family lineage.

VAL – (hand wrapped around the hilt) May the guardians of the force watch over you…sleep well baby.

Suddenly Val hears a voice emitting from behind him, staggered as the dusty, dimly lit mausoleum was supposed to be completely abandoned from anyone’s presence but his own.

VOICE – (soft) Father…they already do.

Val spins around sharply as he recognizes the voice, staring in utter disbelief to Terra’s spirit materialized before him. The same coy smile is on Terra’s lips as the one on the carved figurine as she hovers and smiles brightly wrapped in a shimmering blue aura.

VAL – Terra? How did you? I thought you couldn’t…

TERRA – (smiles brightly) The exact limitations of the force are still vastly unknown Val. I guess, sometimes when our lives are taken without closure…the force compensates. You recall the voice in your head you heard just before Varic stabbed you? The one you haven’t told anyone else about?

VAL – (stunned) Yes…it was yours but I wasn’t entirely sure.

TERRA – What did I tell you?

VAL – (smiles) You told me it wasn’t my time yet…to believe in the impossible and defy destiny.

TERRA – (grins) And you did that Father, you faced my Uncle’s curse and you overcame it. The guardians of the force have rewarded your noble sacrifice by granting you another chance to live your life anew.

Val shifts his feet on the gravel polished floor. He still couldn’t believe that Terra was consciously speaking to him at this very moment when he could have sworn he would never have had the chance to see her again. Her presence was brief, he could tell this because her aura seemed to flicker in and out of clarity so he chose his words well.

VAL – I couldn’t rest knowing that your casualty was still unsettled. I did what I had to do to keep my promise to you not just as a mentor or an instructor…but as a father should to his daughter.

TERRA – (smiles) I wish I could hold you in my arms and tell you it’s ok Val, you gave me hope when others like my mother, Crymson told me I would mean little when I was gone. That I was nothing more then a number in a series of individuals easily replaced. However there is someone who needs you even more desperately then I do right now. My time grows short so I will simply say this…

VAL – Yes?

TERRA – (winks) Go to her Val, return to your wedding. The circle is complete and I can now rest at ease…The T’Negun bloodline is gone and shall never return to plague mankind again. When I died Father I did not die as a T’Negun…I perished as a Versai.

Val wipes the tears from his eyes, lost in that instant as he studies the ethereal visage of his daughter smile with blinding radiance bringing the words etched into her monument to reality, irradiating with joy and overwhelming satisfaction. Just then, Val detects Terra’s spirit flicker out more severely as she whispers to him what he assumes would be her last words permitted upon this realm.

TERRA – (begins to flicker out) By the way Val… Russel and Kathryn asked me to pass on their blessing. In fact we all have a special surprise just for you but you need to hurry back to the ceremony. Our time is scarce. We have only moments to present it. Go now…your work here is done.

Terra’s spirit suddenly fluctuates and vanishes as Val glances to her last spot with a shocked look. What did she mean his parents passed on their blessing? Did Terra see Russel and Kathryn even after all of this time since their death still survive beyond flesh? Truly the force was a mystery that would continue to yield new aspects and could never fully be understood.

With Cire’s sword wedged in place, Val spun around and dashed out of the mausoleum as a large stone slab with a vibrant Versai Crest set into it, settled into place sealing the tomb.
 

INTERIOR: EXTERIOR – VERSAI MANSION – WEDDING ARENA

Sacul paces nervously back and forth as he peers through a curtain. Lance and Lon were now already on stage but Val was no where to be found with only minutes away from his turn to emerge! Music played as the announcement to continue without Val’s presence emitted a harsh response from the eager crowd while the Best Men and Bride’s Maids traveled down the red carpet.

Foe Raker paced down the aisle first, refusing to dress entirely in non warrior like clothing as he wore a black suit custom designed with the identical flame patterns on his ceremonial robe. His head was held high while his white metal lightsaber embroidered with a dragon dangled along his hip. He did however keep some sense of tradition by wearing a pair of plain, pressed black slacks as he turned his intimidating gaze to the spectators in the pits below the runway.

Next, Lance’s Best Man was Marc Jade as he confidently walked down the red carpet, turning his gaze to the crowd and nodding, dressed in a basic black tux, reaching the end of the elongated carpet as he stood by Foe and nodded respectfully.

MARC – I still haven’t found Val anywhere Foe. He better make it here on time or the stage is going to suffer Gen’s “explosive” temper.

FOE – (smirks) Don’t ya worry Marc. If I know Val is ain’t gonna miss this for the world. Ya gotta remember that he and I have our own ways of doing things. He’s been waiting to get hitched to Gen for way too long to neglect his responsibilities…he’ll be here, count on it.

Meanwhile Sacul continued to pace back and forth dressed in a uncomplicated tux as well, knowing it would soon be his cue to join the other men at the end of the runway. Sacul was Lon’s chosen Best Man on such short notice because while Val was dealing with his isolation, Sacul was the one man who continued to keep an eye on Lon while he trained, not to mention oversaw that when Xola arrived at the mansion during her special visits she was well taken care of. Sacul breathed in a heavy sigh as he heard the lead concierge announce his name. It was now or never and with limited emotional programming he took his first step towards the folds of the tent.

All of a sudden, Sacul feels a rush of relief fall over him as he hears metal rustling, signaling Val’s arrival while he darts into the tent from an alternative entrance. He appears heroic and dashing dressed in his own unique ensemble. The vest was exactly like his Duelist attire although a new one, in mint condition. His pants were jet black but he had a series of decorative silver elements running down the sides of them. His cufflinks with the Versai Crest in gold jutted from his sleeves as Val raced quickly to Sacul and settled a hand on his shoulder.

VAL – (panting) You didn’t think I would let them start the party without me did you? Sorry I’m late old friend, I had to take care of something important.

SACUL – (smirks) I never once doubted you. I’ve grown accustom to your fascination with instilling suspense.

VAL – (winks) Hey, it’s what I do.

Sacul exchanges a smile striding towards the exit and walks out into the spilling sun drenched exterior. His eyes marvel to the splendor and majesty of the crowds of people standing on their feet in anticipation as they know Val follows Sacul’s lead. The trusty advanced HRD droid graciously walks forward with refined grace as he finally reaches the platform and steps next to the other Best Men.

There is a brief moment of silence and breaths are held. The guests await the arrival of their prestigious man of honor, responsible for the troves of gratuity and entertainment provided to them. Those lucky enough to have passed beyond security and received personal invitations felt their hearts thump as the curtain parted.

Val stood one boot out, then followed suit as he finally emerged into the glistening sunlight. The wind swept his neatly groomed bangs while his brown eyes surveyed the oceans of people cheering and whistling enthusiastically to his appearance. Amidst the admiration, Val knew that many of his guests he had invited were the sole survivors from the Forest Moon of Endor or had loved ones that perished in the atrocity of Varic’s actions. With him dead and the shard of the Kaiburr Crystal in safe hands, removed from his severed limb…the fate of galaxy was secure.

However again death was still death, but it was also the engine that drove change and evolution. Although the inhabitants were no longer free to live their lives, their memories lived on through those who preserved their memory. That was their true immortality.

Val’s generosity spared no expense as he paid the guests who had lost their family and friends in the tragedy an exorbitant amount of money. He felt that while money could not being back their lives, it could at least lessen the financial burden that was taken on by those who had survived. Being quite possibly the richest man in the galaxy and with Versai Tech firmly in his hands, his expenses were only temporary.

He smiled warmly as the legions of guests applauded and whistled while he walked down the runway, letting the wind swirl his long sleeved coat around in the breeze. This was the only time that Val had ever worn a long sleeved coat since his days in the Dark Jedi Academy, but it was at least one tradition he was determined to maintain on this unforgettable occasion.

Gen also hated white and for the longest time she had protested to have a purple or black wedding gown but Xola, Corrie, and Sara insisted that if Val was going to force himself to wear a long sleeved coat, Gen would have to uphold the female end of the bargain and submit to wearing a white wedding dress. Although Gen did manage to get the bridesmaids to permit her to add elements of purple within her ensemble in the form of flowers and elegant and rare, sea-grown Luminex crystal jewels. The same crystals powered her lightsaber given to her by Val inside VT when she constructed her second lightsaber. In the mean time Val finally reached the end of the carpet and stood between Lon and Lance.

LON – (whispering) It’s about time you got here, my feet are killing me!

FOE - Quit your yapping and act like a man. Don't make me drag your butt back to the Powerhouse.

VAL – (smirks) I’m sure when night falls Lon, your feet will be the last thing on your mind. Trust me on that. When Xola waltzes in with her wedding dress and is itching for you to tear it off…you’ll thank me.

LANCE – (grins) Are you sure Lon even knows what to do on a honeymoon Val? Last time I checked the last woman you’ve pleasured was Gen.

VAL – Oh I am quite confident the new Dark Jedi Master has attained much of his Master’s trade secrets in regards to the bedroom. Not everything is attained through direct experience Lance. There’s always room for fantasies. (winks)

LANCE – Me fantasize? Naaaaaah.

MARC – (snickers) Ah yes Val…I believe you’ve passed them on to me on an occasion or two. At least now you actually get to see if they work out.

VAL – Touché Marcus.

Suddenly that all familiar processional music beings to play as the wedding march resonates with a strong presence, drowning out the ambient noise of the crowd which signals with the loud organ proclaiming that the moment has arrived for the first wedding to begin. On cue, the Best Men for the latter weddings step back against the polished steel wall, while Lon approaches the opposite end of the red carpet runway, turning to face the parting red curtains, upon which the brides will now emerge.

Val and Lance recede back along the wall while they wait for Xola to appear. Moments later, on cue to the music Xola exits the curtains dressed in a long flowing white dress with cascading white lace running along her shoulders and the veil drawn over her ice blue eyes, though her shimmering locks glisten with a sky blue luster, curled and partially suspended in a tight bun.

She holds in her hands a bouquet of matching blue flowers and various other types of plants, from things that resemble baby’s breath, to other elements that reflect carnations. Flanked behind her, picking up the tresses of her flowing dress are two servant droids. Corrie was the only female in attendance that knew the bride’s and grooms so she opted to come out when it was Gen’s turn.

Xola beamed with happiness as she finished her trek down the catwalk. Staring into the eyes of her somewhat nervous mate, Lon tried to settle the butterflies in his stomach. She stretched out her hand soothingly as she stroked along his chest, while her and Lon’s face was displayed on the giant view screen, allowing the entire crowd to witness their expressions, before the camera roamed back to the red curtains again, this time focusing on the next bride to come forward.

While Xola stood next to Lon, hand in hand the curtains slid back as they revealed Sara advancing into the radiant sunlight. Along her dress she had small gemstones of emerald around the regions of her breasts and some woven into the lace of her blouse, while her blonde locks were also semi suspended by a pair of concealed clips. However unlike Xola, woven within her veil were also tiny patches of bright jade flowers and speckles of baby’s breath.

Like Xola her emerald eyes were concealed while she stepped off the red carpet and approached the podium, closing distance with her stunning pirate. At this point, you weren’t supposed to converse too much to maintain the traditional buildup of the vows and the crowd grew very silent in respect, although they were now anxiously awaiting Gen’s arrival, the last and final Bride to be.

No one was more anxious to see Gen then her fiancée. Val shuffled his feet along the floor, while flexing his fingers as he stared into the folds of the tent at the opposite end of the runway. The crowd waited in tensed anticipation as a figure drew back the curtains.

She was absolutely breathtaking…

Gen smiled confidentially, stepping in rhythm to the music while her hips titled seductively within her graceful advance. Her veil was covering her vibrant purple eyes and her dress sparkled with the jewels encrusted into just about anywhere she could place them, from her blouse to the shoulder regions of her garb, down through the veil in swirls of purple radiance.

Swirls of the Versai Gold curled along her breasts in a breathtaking pattern, while lace flowed down her midsection and ribbons rippled from portions of her hair. Gen didn’t permit anyone to place her hair into a bun like the others because she knew it drove Val nuts when her hair was down, cascading along her shoulders in all its purplish-pink majesty.

She focused her gaze to the details of Val’s long sleeved coat, finding it hard to adapt to witnessing his younger, primed, muscular arms draped by fabric. However, from the Versai Crest encircling his boots to the dazzling reflections of the silver embellishments of his pants, he was still as stunning and captivating as ever. Gen even insisted on keeping her lightsaber hung along her hip, concealed under the dress just in case. Val mirrored that concern as she could spot, nearing the end of the carpet runway her gift to him…the engagement saber suspended from his left hip as the sunlight created glints of white along the gold and chrome casing.

Corrie, dressed in the only gown she could find on such short notice…being pink; she was in the rear, holding the reigns of Gen’s dragging white fabric. It was of course not so much traditional of a bride’s maid to do so but in this case it was a trade off for forcing Gen to wear white. Kalin Starr seated in the front row winked to his girlfriend as Corrie eventually finished her duty and paced down a set of steps, descending the platform so that the couples could finally reach that appointed moment of exchanging their vows.

The music finished…

There was only the speaker amplified sound of the preacher now, as Lon, Xola, Lance, Sara, Val, and Gen stood an equal distance apart from one another, paired up in their respective places as they all focused their attention on the minister. The plan was to have each couple recite their own vows to each other one after the other, then finish with the final kissing of the bride. For the purposes of avoiding too much repetition, the Minister was instructed to address each couple as if they were one unit.

MINISTER – Ladies and Gentlemen…We are gathered here to day on this most memorable occasion to celebrate the union of not one, not two, but three couples in the sanctity of marriage. Each Groom has faced incredible odds to persevere to witness this day. Overcoming tests and tribulations it is my pleasure to finally unify their souls into one division.

The Minister then turns his attention to Lon and Xola as they focus their eyes upon him.

MINISTER – Do you Lon Wol, Lance, Jade, and Valaryc Versai take these women to be your wedded wives? To love, honor, cherish, protect and comfort them in sickness and health for as long as you both shall live?

LON – You betcha.

MINISTER – (perks a brow) Mr. Wol it is customary to respond with the words “I do”.

LON – (adjusts his collar) Sorry, sorry…just a little nervous here. I do.

LANCE – (snickers) I do.

VAL – (thinks to himself) Maybe he might be clueless on the honeymoon after all.

MINISTER – Val?

VAL – I do.

Lon shoots Val an awkward glance as he turns his attention back to Xola. She was so radiant in her gown and the image of her beauty, accentuated by her pink toned skin indelibly etched into Lon’s memory. Although none of the Grooms could yet see the full face of their brides, clearly eagerness was strong. The Minister then turned to face the blossoming brides as they fastened their attention to him.

MINISTER - Do you Xola Neesan, Sara Versai, and Gen Zeridian take these men to be your wedded husbands? To love, honor, cherish, protect and comfort them in sickness and health for as long as you both shall live?

XOLA – I do.

SARA – Yes, I do.

GEN – Most certainly I do.

The Minister turns towards the Best Men who stand against the silver wall. The girls were allowed to modify their vows simply because their beauty swept over the Minister’s traditional senses, adding to the authority of their feminine whiles.

MINISTER – May I have the rings?

Sacul fishes around in his pocket while Foe is the first to produce Gen and Val’s rings, followed by Marc. Each Best Man was also assuming the responsibilities of the ring bearer and they handed over the rings in unison, while the Minister gave each to their respected owners. Various stones that symbolically matched each bride adorned bands of gold. Sara’s stones were green, Xola’s stones were ice blue, and Gen’s gems were of course purple and pink.

MINISTER – These rings are a symbol of your love for one another. Unbroken and shining they show the galaxy the vows you make here today. Long after this moment has passed will they function as a beacon to your hard earned commitment to the bonds you share. Will the Grooms first repeat after me while slipping on the rings?

Lance, Lon, and Val approach their glistening brides as they take each of their hands into their own, placing the rings on their fingers in succession.

MINISTER – With this ring, I thee wed.

LON – With this ring, I thee wed.

LANCE – With this ring, I thee wed.

VAL – With this ring, I thee wed.

MINISTER – Now I require the brides to repeat the same gestures.

This time it is the females who slide the bands of metal upon their champions. Xola smiles softly to Lon, who had lost his hand and endured endless pain to marry her while Sara gazes to her dashing pirate for Lance had suffered a leg injury and being shot to marry her as well. Then there was at last Val who had given more then any of the others by sacrificing his life and his original body to unite with his beloved Gen Zeridian. This day had been long over due and had taken years in the making. Impossible as it once was believed, Gen slipped the golden band around Val’s finger, a band that was etched with the inscription “Forever Bound.”

MINISTER – With this ring, I thee wed.

XOLA – With this ring, I thee wed.

SARA – With this ring, I thee wed.

GEN – With this ring, I thee wed.

A hush falls over the crowd now for there is but one last article to carry out before the ceremony was concluded and each groom eagerly desired to pull back the veil and stare into their lover’s star struck eyes. Hearts pumped and fingers tensed in suspense…waiting for those words, those last couple lines that brought about the completion of ceremony.

Corrie and Kalin shifted in their seats watching the couples. Kalin wondered just what it would be like to get married like the others, but he knew to capture Corrie in that manner was still in the distant future. She wasn’t so easy to seduce into giving up all of her freedoms. However that of course doesn’t mean Corrie didn’t love Kalin with every fiber of her being…she just enjoyed that level of control over him. He had rescued her in her injured state inside The Killian Citadel and from that moment on, their bond was struck with tempered admiration for one another.

MINISTER – (smiling) You have all exchanged vows and rings, I now pronounce you all Husband and Wife. You may kiss the bride!

LON – About damn time…

XOLA – Come here you…

Xola grabs Lon by his collar and presses her lips deeply against his as she wraps her arms around him and passionately weaves her fingers through his hair. Not to be left in the dark, Lance and Sara then embrace with vigorous passion as he throws back the veil, gazing into Sara’s vibrant green eyes and grinds her body into his chest, purring as their lips seal into a romantic caress.

(Across the Stars low rift)

Gen isn’t so traditional or restrained. Before Val can blink, Gen rips off her veil completely and tosses it to the ground as she grabs Val’s collar by both hands and drives his lips hard into her own. Her fingers clench tightly around his fabrics as her tongue dances with his in erotic unison. Val’s fingers wrap around Gen’s supple hips and grind her into his pelvis as he tips her back slightly fueling the intensity of the kiss. Passion, lust, love, need, heat…all these things rush though Val’s body like wildfire as Gen’s fingers grab the back of his brown locks and keep him bound against her shimmering off red rims. Lon and Lance stare on and clap sarcastically as their kisses conclude, while Val and Gen’s embrace continues to grace the giant screen above, unaware of the time that has passed.

LON – That’s Val all right, always the center of attention.

LANCE – (smirks) Yeah, well learn to kiss like that and perhaps you’d understand just why Gen can’t seem to stop doing it.

SARA – (grins) Speaking of Dearest…I have not had my fill of your wonderful lips. Get over here tiger.

Sara draws Lance into another lengthy kiss as Lon looks on in shock. Xola doesn’t let him feel left out though as she wraps her fingers around his hands and roams her lips to his mouth in a more sensual, but romantic embrace.

MINISTER – (clears his throat) Eehemmm umm umm uh, I don’t mean to intrude but I still have one more line here.

Coyly the grooms and the brides cease their warm kisses…at least for the moment as they turn their attention back to the Minister so that he may properly conclude the ceremony with the final line. Each of the couples knows what he needs them to do, so they smooth back their attire and await the signal.

MINISTER – Ladies and Gentleman, I present to you The Wols, The Jades, and The Versais!

(Gungan Celebration Music)

Suddenly the music blares and the drums beat festively as confetti rains from the sky above, while the couples all turn and face the crowd and bow graciously, hand in hand. People cheer and stand up from their seats as they see the new married soulmates finish the ceremony. Many who know Val and Lance cheer and applaud with tears of great joy that their superiors, men who deserve such privilege receive the spoils of war long over due.

The time for the tossing of the bouquets arrives and Xola tosses hers into the crowd which is picked up by a luscious red haired female, while Sara’s bouquet ends up in Sacul’s arms.

SACUL – But a droid cannot possibly get married! I have no one to match my programming!

VAL – (smirks) Then perhaps I’ll have to go out and find you a synthetic partner.

SACUL – Sir I? If such a task were that simple you would have married ages ago.

Val snickers softly as Gen squeezes his hand before tossing her bouquet purposely in the trajectory of Corrie who catches the bundle as Kalin flashes her a mischievous grin.

CORRIE – Don’t even think about it buster…you haven’t earned my submission that easily.

KALIN – (smirks) Don’t worry Princess, I’m working on it.

CORRIE – (purrs) I bet you are.

Meanwhile, amidst the shouting and blaring of horns and strings of confetti scattering throughout the location, Val hears something speak to him. The voice belongs to Terra and he at first believes it’s just his imagination, but then he recalls the surprise she mentioned earlier. Val turns his gaze along the far right side of the podium. He sees what is described as quite possibly the most amazing, heartwarming, display in the history of his existence. That is aside from Gen’s influence and the wedding. Standing arm in arm are Russel and Kathryn Versai in the guise of shimmering blue spirits.

Nestled in front of Kathryn is Terra beaming with pride as Russel’s hand settles on Terra’s left shoulder while Kathryn’s rests on her right. Blinking with disbelief, Val rubs his eyes and looks again but the three spirits still emerge followed by the forth appearing next to Russel.

It was Obi Wan Kenobi…

Although none of them could speak, they all nodded and smiled warmly as Kathryn’s dazzling green eyes (assuming she were in color) and vibrant blonde hair spilled down her shoulders, draped in a traditional but white Jedi garb. Russel was also dressed in a deeper, dark brown tunic not unlike that of Anakin Skywalker’s uniform as he smiled softly to his son, wrapping his arm around Kathryn with his brown locks flowing, boiling over with pride towards his accomplishments and his success to defeat the dark side and the T’Negun curse once and for all.

The four kindled spirits waved gently as their ethereal forms then flickered away, while Val wiped away a tear forming in his eye. This prompted Gen to raise her eyes and see Terra’s ghost just after the three guardians completely vanish from view, having completed the circle of the force within Val’s past and present.

GEN – Terra! Was that?

VAL – (smiles) Yes baby…she’s home now. They all are.

(Across the Stars Music, powerful and robust.)

Gen cradles Val in her arms and kisses him once more, as the monitor above shows their heated embrace resume from their previous attempt. This time the scene pulls back to reveal Lance and Sara, and Lon and Xola kissing as well equally separated on stage while the chairs of the guests focus into view followed by the luxurious rainbow colored foliage and then the vantage point tips up into the sky as four shooting stars fly by one after another, running down a diagonal line as sun begins to set over the horizon…proving that all the souls lost in the great expanse of the Versai Chronicles legacy.
 

Were finally at peace…