1. Chapter 1

Chapter one The star wars effect

Ryan is the best the alliance has not to mention one of the youngest officers ever and shot through the ranks due to unmatched skill and ability. what will happen when he and the rest of the Normandy's crew discover a space station with the power to transport them to other galaxies and who or what will they find. set in an AU between mass effect characters and star wars the clone wars based on OC. This story will contain sex scenes both straight and slash in later chapters. So if that's a problem or you're under 18 please stop reading if not then I hope you enjoy. (Of course I don't own any of the rights and or characters for star wars or mass effect)

Hey guys this is my first ever fanfic so try to be nice. But by all means give me feedback and development ideas. Tell me what you like, don't like and so on. Planning on turning this into a series not sure how long yet but will play it by ear. Also for the stories sake forget the mass effect story line im just taking the human characters I like.

Ryan Gibbs is a 19 year old from London he was born on earth where he was raised by a wealthy and powerful family within the alliance. He stands at 6ft with dark brown short hair, piercing blue eyes and a strong jaw. He has an extremely well-toned body without being over built or bulky. He joined the alliance academy at 16 and quickly established himself as an excellent soldier and commander. Excelling in personal combat and tactical command, he was the first person under 21 to be asked to join the N7 program. By 18 and a half he became one of the youngest lieutenants in the alliance. He then went on to save a large group of alliance politicians from pirates including the Prime Minister Shastri, Admiral Hackett and minister Udina. In recognition he was made first lieutenant of the Normandy under Commander John Shepard and Major Kaidan Alenco. Who together lead a crew on a proto-type ship the Normandy designed for stealth and recon in a bid to deal with the growing threat of renegade pirates and slavers. There Ryan has served for the last six months while the Normandy tracks down and deals with any and all threats to alliance peace in the deepest darkest corners of space.

Ryan walked onto the Normandy's command centre and noticed the commander barking orders. "Commander" Ryan said saluting as he reached him. "First lieutenant" Commander Shepard replied, "Come and take a look at this." Ryan followed him into the bridge where his jaw dropped and he couldn't stop a gasp. Before them was the biggest man made thing Ryan had ever seen it was enormous bigger than any station or ship put together not far off the size of a small moon. "What is that thing?" Ryan blurted out. "My scans can't register exactly what it is, all I can establish is that it is most defiantly not human design." Edi stated. "Where did it come from?" Ryan asked awestruck. "I haven't been able to determine its primary use however there are no life forms of any kind aboard whatever it is or was it's abandoned."

"Well lieutenant what course of action would you take?" Shepard asked while he turned to look at Ryan. Ryan took a deep breath. "Well sir our first priority should be to report this to the alliance. Then I would try hailing it if there's no response then I would send out the drones and have them check there's defiantly nothing aboard before we send teams in." Shepard nodded "good thinking Lieutenant, EDI continue trying to hail whatever that thing is while the drones are prepared. Ryan you get the crew together and armoured up while I contact the alliance." "Yes sir!" Ryan said saluting.

Ryan stood in the hanger bay inspecting the crew when Edi came over "Ryan Shepard is on his way should I prepare for the mission brief?" she asked "Sure" Ryan said "go set up" and watched her walk away. Even after all this time Ryan couldn't totally wrap his mind around Edi. An artificial intelligence designed to run the Normandy and serve as 'enhanced defence intelligence'. Until a mission before Ryan joined the crew where the ship had been attacked and control of the ship was almost lost she had been unshackled and had free reign of the ship. Able to upgrade, develop and change without even letting the crew know. However she still agreed that humans helped the ship reach its full capabilities and so were integral to mission success. Then after Ryan's first mission as a member of the crew they came across an extremely advanced gynoid, built by a terrorist group and unrivalled by any other synthetic known to man. Edi had then somehow managed to take control of the unit melding her programing with that of the unit and somehow making her more sentient. Truth be told Ryan didn't really understand it all but what he did know was Edi was endlessly useful and had proved she could be trusted.

Shepard came up behind him with gunnery chief Williams and Major Kaidan. "Sir!" Ryan and the rest of the crew saluted. "Shall we" Shepard said gesturing towards the briefing area where Edi was already stood waiting for them. As the crew were taking their seats Dr Noah the chief of science, Dr David and chief engineer Adams joined them. Shepard stepped forward "as I'm sure some of you have heard we have come across some kind of alien station. We currently have no idea what it is, what it's for or what it does but command has given us clearance to begin recon and basic investigations until the alien investigatory task force can arrive." Kaidan stepped forward and a projection of the station appeared before them all. "As you can see this station is massive and quite unlike anything we have ever seen before in any pervious discovery. We have established that it is in fact not a ship however we cannot determine its usage. There will be two task forces heading out one led by the commander that will be heading to this part of the station through the top hanger" as he said it a little box lit up on the hologram and zoomed in. "from what we can tell it seems to be the main control room once there you will find out what you can and see if you can't find out what this station is. The second team" as he started talking the hologram zoomed back out and a different part of the station lit up. "Will be led by First lt Ryan you will be going in through the west hanger and will be scouting the lower section of the station. There is something down there Edi has established as 'safe room'. What that means we're not sure but we are picking up strange power readings from inside unlike any power output we've ever encountered"

Engineer Adams moved forward and the station image changed again zooming in on what looked like the front of the station. "This seems to be the main supply of power it registers at an almost unreadable level and has enough power to support all of earths power needs for the foreseeable future." There was a little murmur from the crew "I know it seems impossible, but I've done the maths and insuring that power source stays stable is top priority who knows how big it would go if it went off." Shepard moved forward again "right Kaidan will be remaining here to command the ship along with Dr David our alien expert. Who will be analysing everything our armour cams pick up and will direct the mission from here. Sergeants Vaga and Cortez will be piloting the shuttles I'll have Cortez, Ryan you take James. My team will consist of chief Williams, corporal Jenkins and Dr Noah. Ryan you will lead Sergeant McDonald, Edi and corporals Arin and Ben any questions?" Ryan stood up "what's our objective sir?" "At the moment I just want to get an idea of what we're dealing with here. So any and all data we can recover is the top priority along with insuring that the main power core is stable. Also be advised scout drones have found nothing hostile as of yet. However extreme caution is advised and don't mistake ladies and gentlemen this is the biggest alien find in earth's history let's try not to mess it up."

Ryan and his team moved slowly through the station using the lights from their helmets and guns to light the way. The thing was like a ghost town there was nothing. It was like whomever or whatever left this thing here did not want to leave a trace of themselves behind. Both the hanger and the rooms they now moved through were cold and clinical giving Ryan the impression this was some kind of military station. Which meant Ryan couldn't help the uneasy feeling he had in his stomach. "Edi keep a few drones just ahead I don't want any surprises." Ryan asked. Meanwhile Shepard's team had entered the control room and began looking round. "Dave are you getting this?" "Yeah it's exactly the same sort of technology that was found on mars and other planets Edi can you get any remote access to the station?" David asked "no the whole station is dead all I can pick up is the two power sources."

By now Ryan's team had reached the safe room a massive door stood before them Ryan looked round "I can't see away to open it" he said. As he finished his sentence Dr Noah had tried accessing the control system however nothing seemed to be working. Having given as a last ditch attempt he began pressing buttons at random all of the sudden the whole station shuddered and powered up.

The next thing Ryan knew the lights were on and a security door slammed shut trapping them between the two solid doors. "Edi what's going on?!" Ryan yelled "I don't know I've been cut off from my main core on the ship all communication is jammed. The last thing that happened that I know off Dr Noah was trying to start up the computer system he must have triggered a station lock down. At that point an alarm started sounding. "What the hell is that?" Lucy asked "I don't know at a guess it sounds like a warning system" "warning for what" Ben asked? "Forget that I want off of this thing now! Edi get these doors open!" Ryan barked "that's the issue Ryan I can't I have no remote access what so ever and there's no way to gain manual control!" Ryan yelled in anger and frustration and punched the safe door. To his shock it began to open and then stopped. All five of them stood and stared at the door. "Do that again" Ben said and all four of the humans began punching and kicking the door willing it to open. However nothing happened after their hands began to hurt they stopped with another yell of anger frustration and all out desperation Ryan hit the door. And it slid open not by much but by just enough for them the fit through one at a time.

They all stood staring at Ryan then the door then back. "Let's… Let's move Ryan said after a pause and one by one they slid through the gap. Edi noticed a terminal in the next room and ran to it and began typing away."The alarm is a warning of a station malfunction. The stations core is going to let out a charge to stop itself from imploding." Edi exclaimed "what!" Ryan shouted "surely that would be enough to wipe us and the Normandy off the map…" "Not the Normandy I have regained a weak signal to the ship they have fallen back to a safe distance. In fact I might even be able to seal this room and set up its shields it seems this room was designed for this occurrence." "What about Shepard?" "There's no way for him to get here in time the charge is about to go off any minuet" Ryan looked round at the rest of the team who just looked right back "Ryan! If I don't seal this room now you all will die and the power would fry this body's circuits! "Do it!" Ryan yelled knowing he had just sealed not just the room but Shepard's and the rest of his team's fate as well.

With the room sealed and Edi was able to restore oxygen to the room. Ryan yanked his helmet off and threw it at the wall. "Sir you did all you could" Lucy said walking over to Ryan. "Yeah" corporal Arin piped in "I've left them to die" Ryan said grief in his tone. "There was nothing we could have done they were on the other side of the station waiting for them would have meant our death as well" Lucy pointed out. Ryan nodded as she put a hand on his shoulder. "The station won't be safe for some time" Edi stated "best we settle down then" Ben said trying to catch Ryan's eye but he was staring at something else.

Ryan had noticed a golden box that sat on a pedestal towards the back of the room and had blue, green and yellow writing on it that seemed to glow. "What is that" Arin said standing back up as Ryan moved towards it seemingly hypnotised. "It seems to be the second power source although it's strange it's not any kind of power I've ever seen before. In fact it's not like any other artefact found on any other alien discovery site." Edi chimed Ryan was just in front of the box now the glow was much brighter and it was beginning to hover into the air. "Ryan sir I wouldn't touch that" Ben said as the words left his mouth the whole station shuddered again and the lights went out with another jolt of the station they came back on but Ryan fell forward grabbing the box to save himself. The box flashed blindingly bright and both Ryan and the box floated into the air the rest of the team jumped up from the ground and ran to Ryan but as Ben got there the box let out a force wave knocking them all back into the wall. The letters on the box began to change and move while a strange light surrounded Ryan and the box. Corporal Arin was back up first and jumped to reach Ryan but as she stood the light grew so bright it blinded then all. Ryan suddenly started a bloodcurdling scream that seemed to last forever. Arin felt herself thrown back into the wall as the colours began to change to blue, green, yellow, purple, grey, orange, and white. Then as fast as it began silence and the light returned to normal. As Lucy opened her eyes she saw Ryan fall to the floor where he landed in a heap unmoving.


	2. Chapter 2

Chapter two

Hey guys thanks for reading! Just to clear something's up that I missed before. The mass effect universe is as if the mass relays haven't been discovered yet. Think of it as if the council, the council races and citadel do not exist. In fact while the Alliance have found alien ruins and the odd crashed ship they have yet to find any actual aliens dead or alive. Any alien characters from mass effect that I may include in the future have not yet been met by the Normandy's crew. Shepard and the rest of the Normandy are very much loyal to the Alliance and while Cerberus dose exist they are still only small time terrorists. The storyline for this story will be more focused around the republic and Jedi. Of course with some new characters and stories included. (Also anyone worrying about missing out on lovable mass effect characters like Tali and Garrus don't worry so much. Let me know who you want included because I have an idea how they will be introduced into the story) Again thanks for reading and please enjoy and let me know what you think.

0-0-0-0

Masters Windu, Mundi and Yoda entered the chancellor's office. "Ah masters its good you could join us" the chancellor said with a smile as he gestured towards some chairs. The three took seats in front of the chancellor's desk next to Admiral Tarkin and Director of the Senate Bureau of Intelligence Armand Isard. "What seems to be the issue Chancellor?" Windu asked as they took their seats. "It seems that a previously deactivated mass relay in uncharted space has just come back online. However there's something else." Director Isard stood up and activated the holomessager. The room darkened and a holorecording of an old woman in Jedi robes appeared before them. "This is Master Nomi Sunrider of the Jedi order, anyone who receives this message I implore that you pass it on to the Jedi high council. If this has reached the high council then I carry a grave warning. After retiring from the council I have searched the galaxy for any sith stragglers. What I have found eclipses our worst nightmares The Sith are far stronger than we could have imagined. They have built an empire powerful enough to challenge the republic and the Jedi and plot and scheme against us. If we are to stand any chance against them then we must build our defense and prepare otherwise I fear they will sweep across the Republic unchallenged. In an attempt to slow them down me a my allies have shut down several mass relays in order to cut them off however I fear this will not hold them forever. I hope this message reaches you in time to make a difference good luck and may the force be with you.

The three masters looked at each other. "What Sith do you think she is discussing?" Admiral Tarkin asked. "It's hard to say" mundi replied "grandmaster Sunrider fought in the great sith wars nearly 4,000 years ago. She could be referring to The Sith empire that started the Great galactic war 400 years later." "Is it possible that there is another sith empire out there?" Isard asked "mmm never clear are the sith clouded in shadow they are however sense great disturbance around this relay I do" Yoda replied "send a scout team we will discover the meaning for this relays reactivation we must."

0-0-0-0

Ryan awoke and tried to open his eyes but the lights around him blinded him forcing him to shut them again starting a pounding in his head. Wincing in pain he slowly opened his eyes again seeing two dark brown eyes staring back into his. "Ryan thank god you're ok" Kaidan beamed "you had us so worried!" "Kaidan what happened?" Ryan asked holding his head. "What's the last thing you remember?" Dr Chukwas asked as she checked and double checked Ryan's vitals. Ryan stopped to think "we had found an alien space station of some kind." Ryan paused clearly racking his brain "when…. When Shepard. Shepard!" he gasped turning to look at Kaidan. That was when he noticed the grief in his eyes and Kaidan slowly shock his head. "No! he can't be" Ryan whispered "I'm sorry Ryan you done all you could there was no way he could have made it to the safe room in time. If you hadn't sealed the doors and got the shield up when you did you would all be dead as well." Kaidan tried to reassure Ryan. "who just sat in silence looking at his feet while the doctor fussed around him. That's when it started the throbbing in his head got more and more server until he started seeing white spots. He could hear the doctor shouting orders but it sounded far away and distant. After a while he closed his eyes and succumbed to the pain.

0-0-0-0

Ryan tossed and turned as he watched the man before him fall to the ground dead with a small reptile attached to his neck. Ryan heard a woman screaming and realized the sound was coming from his mouth. He looked round at a world he didn't know, and suddenly he saw the man who had fallen stand before him. Telling him to take his weapon and use it to defend himself and their child and to be strong, knowing that the dead man will always be love him. He reached for the defeated man's weapon a glowing sword snatching it up he then ran at his alien attackers cutting one down and then another. The others around him began to flee tripping over themselves as they ran. Ryan didn't give chase instead he sat next to the dead man holding him in his arms as he sobbed.

0-0-0-0

Again Ryan slowly opened his eyes and looked around he noticed Dr Chukwas and Dr David standing by the door deep in convocation. He coughed a little and they both looked up and came over to him. "Welcome back buddy" David smiled. "how long have I been out?" Ryan asked laying back as Dr Chukwas checked him over. "only a few hours from the last time you were awake" David replied "and altogether just over a day. Long enough I had to kick Kaidan out before he collapsed from lack of sleep" Ryan managed a weak smile and he and Dave exchanged a knowing look. "well Doc how long till I'm back on my feet?" "That depends you fell quite badly, not to mention your brain activity. It's quite strange the migraine you experienced earlier is quite unusual. For example even when you were unconscious your brain activity was threw the rough." "So what are you saying?" Ryan asked "I'll need to run some tests before I can say anything for sure"

After what had felt like endless torture Ryan was hobbling out of the med bay on crutches he already hated them they made him feel like he was dependent. Members of the crew stopped to wish him well and tell him how glad they were that he had made it. He forced a smile and thanked them but wanted nothing more than to run to his room and lock the door. After getting to the command center he struggled into the scanner room where the two marines were about to wave him through when he gave them a grilling about it being their job to trust no one. They quickly apologized and scanned him letting him through after some extra checks. David chuckled as they moved into the next room "you really hate being like this don't you" he smiled "you have no idea" Ryan Growled back. The entire command team for the Normandy along with Admiral Anderson and some high ranking members of the Alien investigatory taskforce sat in the conference room discussing the situation. Ryan had been grilled for the last half an hour it was starting to feel more like an interrogation than an investigation meeting. However he leaned that the station referred to itself as a 'mass relay' and seemed to be just one in a great network. It seemed to have malfunctioned in some way causing it to shut down which is why when Dr Noah restarted the station it gave off the power surge. He also found out that Shepard and his team had been found still in the control room huddled together Ryan had to fight hard to keep back a tear at this news.

However there were more concerns as it seemed that when the station returned to working order that it had sent out a message of some kind to the other relays. Strangely they had also found a human corpse estimated at 4,000 years old. "I don't understand" James said "how can it be human if it's so old?" "It's not well known but human corpses were found at the mars alien site and a few of the others." Dave replied "it's quite possible that a few humans were taken by whoever these aliens are or were." "have they been checked against human samples on earth of around the same time?" Kaidan asked. "It's Just you yourself David said that the genetic makeup of this human is quite different to our own." "I see what you're saying" David said "im not sure if the makeup is different because we have developed over time or because it's not from the same planet as us" The scientists from the A.I.T murmured some disagreement then professor Martins the head of this discovery spoke up. "With all respect Dr Hill there has never been any evidence to suggest that the creatures found at other sites were truly human." "I know professor I wrote my P.H.D on the remains found at the mars site, and they are indeed not 100% human they are closet related to Homo erectus. However the remains in question are 100% human with small differences in DNA to current human life." The whole room fell silent and stared at David. "What are you saying doctor?" Anderson asked "if I was a betting man I would say that somewhere out there is a alien life force one that built the ruins that we found on mars and whatever that station is. I also believe that these aliens either took homo erectus from earth or delivered them hear from somewhere else after experimenting on them. Which would mean there're other humans out there somewhere in the galaxy and the human we found on the mass relay is one of these humans. Either brought back by the aliens or returned their own professor stood up "where is your proof!" he demanded "its long been known to experts on the mars site that they were carrying out experiments on the remains we found there. But I will admit there rest is educated guess work but isn't most of science until we find the evidence that makes us famous. Also there is no avoiding that there is a massive gap not only in time scale but also on an evolutionary level between the two. Not to mention this human has without a doubt been dead for around 3,900 years and humans have only had spaceflight for around the last 130 years. Meaning there is no way that she got hear from earth."

The arguments raged on for hours until it was finally agreed that the third fleet under Admiral Anderson would come to the mass relay to protect and study it in an attempt to understand and learn all they could. It was agreed that the Normandy for now at least would stay on at the relay until a decision was made about its feature. Dr David was given the honour of leading a team's study into the human found and its relevance to the station and the humans of earth. It was also decided that the relay would be turned into the Alliance headquarters for the expedition fleet and given all the upgrades and changes needed.

0-0-0-0

Meanwhile Ryan's recovery had been slow, his mind had become jumbled and confused as if he had too much information to store and not enough room. His migraines continued and were slowly getting worse so much so he had been unable to attend Shepard and the rest of the team's memorial service before they were sent back to earth. This along with the lack of recovery progress he was making had taken its toll on Ryan who over the next few days spent more and more time alone in his room or in the med bay working with physio. So much so that when Sargent James invited to a game of poker with the other officers something that he normally would have jumped at, he declined. In fact if Kaidan hadn't insisted he take part for his own sanity he would have never been persuaded.

As he entered the lounge on his crutches at the agreed time the whole room jumped up to help him. However James trying to help him into his chair was a step too far. "James will you please get the hell out of my way! I am more than capable of taking on an entire ship of pirates with nothing more than a pistol and some grenades I think I can take a seat by myself!" he had growled in a threatening tone. So James moved back but stood behind him ready to catch him should he fall. Although the death glare he gave the veteran soldier was enough to make him retreat to his own chair. With a chuckle from a few of the other officers the game began. Ryan quickly started to relax joining in on jokes normally at James's expense and even winning a few hands. Ryan was on maybe his third or fourth drink when his head began to throb. James stopped and looked at him "you ok guerrero?" he asked looking a little worried. "Fine" Ryan lied faking a simile, this was the most fun he had had in ages he wasn't going to let a headache ruin it.

By now they were well into their game and most of the officers were quite drunk and the game had progressed to strip poker. "That's it Vega get it off!" Ryan laughed. James started to protest but the others all started chanting "off! Off! Off!" till James pulled off his trousers in a striptease fashion leaving him only in his boxers, socks and dog tags. The room filled with roars of laughter and cheering. However as James looked round beaming looking to spot Ryan's reaction his smile melted as he saw how pale Ryan had become. As he began to stand up Ryan fell forward hitting his head on the poker table. Ryan could hear people calling his name but they seemed far away or like they didn't really exist, he could then make out faces before him James and Lucy looking scared. He knew James had picked him up but he didn't feel anything just his head ripping itself in two. That's when he noticed he was yelling in pain without even meaning or wanting too. As James reached the med bay with him in his arms he gave into the darkness that was clouding his vision. Closing his eyes and letting go he began to dream of a life that wasn't his own.


	3. The jedi

Chapter 3

Hey guys thanks for reading please let me know what you think

Ryan felt himself falling through darkness surrounded by an impenetrable black curtain. Every so often things flashed before him scenes and stories from a life he didn't know. He saw great battles and watched thousands die in a war he didn't understand. Occasionally he saw memories from his own life. His 16 birthday when his farther enrolled him in the academy, his training at the Luna base on earth's moon all of the memories seemed to flash by before the darkness returned. He felt lost and alone trapped forever by the darkness.

That was until he heard his name being called from within the darkness and for the first time in forever light broke in the distance. "Ryan use the force, feel my energy and pull yourself from this place. I will help you as best I can but I can't save you without your help" the voice called out "How?" Ryan yelled back. "Use the force feel the energy that flows around you draw on its power along with mine and you will break free." "I'm trying nothing's happening!" "You must relax your mind let go of your fear and worry only then can the force guide you." Ryan forced himself to relax having no choice but to trust the voice and let go of his fear. That was when it happened he could feel something almost like the wind blowing him towards the light. "That's it Ryan be at peace you must let go of all emotions and let the force flow through you, guide you." The closer Ryan got the light the easier it was to relax and the feel the energy that surrounded him. Then the energy consumed him and the light grew stronger and stronger until the darkness was gone and only the light remained. Leaving Ryan feeling safe and strong that's when the visions started again. However this time he didn't feel the fear of before he felt confident and in control.

Then with a blinding flash of light the visions stopped and new vision started however it was clouded and unclear it showed Ryan fighting a tall old man both of them using glowing swords and moving like lightning. The battle raged on until the tall man pulled down the wall just by moving his hand. Ryan jumped into the falling debris just before it hit a group of humans and aliens past out on the floor stopping it from falling with his mind throwing it at the old man. Shortly after the man recovered and the battle continued getting more and more intense until a group of robots surrounded the two pointing their guns at Ryan. Suddenly the robots flew forward as Ryan jumped in the air and they smashed into each other flying back to the far wall as Ryan landed behind the old man between him and the group of unconscious people, again the two battled. Just as the old man knocked Ryan on to the ground a group of men and women ran towards them drawing more glowing swords and moving to protect Ryan and the others. The old man then released a bunch of lightning bolts and vanished.

0-0-0-0

Ryan opened his eyes and slowly sat up looking round at the room he noticed he was back in the med bay in bed while Kaidan slept in the chair beside his bed. He rubbed his head and tried to move finding his body a little stiff. He then noticed Kaidan rousing next to him "good morning sleeping beauty" he croaked shocked at how raspy his voice was. "Ryan!" Kaidan gasped throwing caution to the wind he wrapped both arms around Ryan pulling in as tight as he could. "Kaidan I can't breathe" Ryan groaned "sorry" Kaidan said letting go. Ryan looked up into Kaidan's eyes noticing they were marked with dark circles and were red from lack of sleep and worry. "I thought I was going to lose you as well." Kaidan whispered. Ryan smiled at him weakly never braking eye contact. "Well you didn't I'm not going anywhere" Ryan whispered back. After a long pause Kaidan broke the intensity of the moment by standing up and reaching for a glass and jug of water. "The doctor said you might be thirsty" Kaidan said handing Ryan the glass, who took it and gulped the whole thing down. Kaidan then brought him up to speed telling him about the alien ship that had jumped out of the mass relay and had contained other humans! Kaidan paused at Ryan's lack of response but then went on to explain that the ship had aliens! Real life aliens! The two leaders who had hailed them on arrival called themselves 'Jedi'. "Yeah Obi-wan and Anakin they're called. It's strange Ryan I don't quite know what to make of all this" Kaidan finished saying. Ryan just sat in silence listening taking the odd sip of water. Then finally he looked up at Kaidan "I know." "You know what?" "All about the Jedi and the republic and the rest of the galaxy" "How?" Kaidan spluttered. "It's hard to explain but I know everything" Ryan stated.

As Kaidan sat there in stunned silence the door opened and Dr Chakwas strolled in "ah you're awake good" She smiled. "Major do you think you could let the Admiral and our guests know that Ryan's woken up while I run some tests." Kaidan hesitated "Go it won't take long and I'll join you to explain everything" Ryan said putting a hand on Kaidan's arm. Kaidan slowly stood up heading for the door but stopped half way there. "Lieutenant, don't ever scare me like that again! That is an order!" "I make no promises sir" Ryan smiled up at him. Kaidan shook his head and left the room a smile from ear to ear Ryan was back, truly back not just the shell of himself he had been last time.

The doctor ran every test she could think of the check Ryan's memory, reaction time, reflexes and his general health. All of which were well above average apart from his leg which while it had healed greatly would take a bit longer to be back to full strength. What worried her were the other memories he had along with his own. For example several times he mentioned a Nomi Sunrider someone she had never heard of. As if that wasn't strange enough even though he had been unconscious when the 'Jedi' had come to the med bay to 'heal' him knew all the details including what the older one looked like. In fact it was a little over her head and she ended up finishing her tests and letting Ryan go before she got any more confused."

0-0-0-0

Ryan strolled into the conference room with a confidence he hadn't had since the incident on the mass relay. He soon spotted Admiral Anderson, Kaidan and Dr David talking to three men. The first was the tallest with medium length brown hair dressed in black robes, next was an older man maybe mid to late 40's with a moustache dressed in uniform. Last was a man in his early 30's with light brown almost ginger hair and a thick beard he was dressed in robes as well but also had armour parts on his chest arms and legs.

"Lieutenant!" Anderson called "I would like you to meet Admiral Yularen along with Generals Kenobi and Skywalker." Ryan nodded and bowed "Gentlemen this is First Lieutenant Ryan Gibbs" "A pleasure" Ryan smiled. "I'm sure the pleasure is all ours" General Kenobi smiled back. "I believe it's the two you I have to thank for helping me out of my coma" Ryan said "not me its master obi-wan who done all the work I was only an anchor to insure you both got back ok." General Skywalker said. "Well thank you both all the same" "it was the least we could do" Obi-wan said bowing his head. "We're sorry to skip the pleasantries Ryan but its bugging all of us what can you remember?" Skywalker asked him the mood taking a serious note. "Everything" Ryan answered "I remember my life, from my training to the last raid on Cerberus's base on Horizon. But then I also remember the entire life of Master Nomi Sunrider everything from her marriage to Andur to the defeat of the Sith and lastly her coming to the solar system."

"Hmm strange" Obi-wan said. "How is that even possible?" Kaidan asked confused. "Unusual but possible" Obi-wan answered. "The box that you told us about the one you believed attacked Ryan we think it might be a 'holocron' " Anakin added. "A what?" Anderson asked. "A holographic chronicle is an organic crystal-lattice device that stores phenomenal quantities of data used to hold information" Obi-wan stated. "I've never heard of them reacting to anyone like this one did with Ryan however viewing the recordings you gave to us. I can only assume that Ryan has somehow absorbed the force energy within it. Thus all the information it contained was absorbed also." "Which would mean Ryan is force sensitive" Anakin pointed out.

"I'm not sure I understand what you mean by 'force' " Anderson said. "The Force is a metaphysical, binding, and ubiquitous power that gives a Jedi their power. It's an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us and binds the galaxy together" Obi-wan explained. "In a way it's the life-force of the universe. For those attuned to and trained in the way of the force it gives them extra human abilities. That is what the Jedi are; they are masters of the force" Ryan Added. "Wow it seems you do have Jedi memories then" Anakin said a little taken aback. "Well what do you mean by force sensitive?" Kaidan asked looking at Ryan with worry. "He has the potential to become a Jedi" Anakin replied, and Obi-wan glared at him. "So there could be more force sensitives on earth then?" Anderson pointed out. "Of course there are what do you think people like Joan of arc who had visions of the future, on Moses who parted the red sea. I bet most prophets or those who claimed to be able to do the impossible could actually and had some force abilities" Ryan said. "It certainly sounds that way" Anakin agreed.

Over the next few hours the group sat and discussed what the future would hold for the Alliance and Republic and where they would go from there. It was agreed that both sides would arrange with their respective governments for a delegation to meet and discuss a treaty. The Jedi and the Admiral excused themselves and headed back to their ship. Once they were gone Anderson turned to Ryan. "Well lieutenant I must say I glad to see you back on your feet." "Thank you sir" Ryan replied "it's good to be back." "Indeed" Anderson nodded "well it seems you 'absorbing' this holocron or whatever it is that happened is a blessing. As we now have insider information from someone we trust. I'm not quite sure I understand it all especially the idea of this 'force'. But if you say the Jedi can be trusted then I'll take your word." Ryan nodded "I trust them sir." "Well then so do I. Traynor get me Prime minister Amul and Admiral Hackett" Anderson said into the intercom "yes sir" Traynor replied.

0-0-0-0

Meanwhile on the republic ship the two Jedi and Admiral Wullf had contacted the chancellor and the council. "Master Obi-wan we're glad to hear from you what news do you have?" the chancellor asked. "The situation is as we expected sir however with some oddities. It seems that a large civilization of humans reactivated the replay" Obi-wan answered. "Humans! How is that possible?" Mas Amedda the vise chancellor asked. "Were not sure they are unlike any other civilization met to date. They have no knowledge of any sentient life but their own, to them we are truly alien" Obi-wan explained. "How is that possible?" master Unduli asked "surely any humans must know the republic or at least know of the rest of the galaxy?" "Not if they didn't know what space flight was when they were brought here." Obi-wan pointed out "It seems whatever created this mass relay may have brought these humans with them when they were still primitive."

"Although for now we should think of them as a newly discovered species" Stated Wullf. "I agree" Anakin said "they are truly separate from us they have achieved space flight but the technology is nothing like our own. It's unlike anything I've ever seen they are both less advanced and more advanced at the same time. For example they have no way of entering hyperspace but do have faster than light travel that can be used over short distances. But then on the other hand their droid, mechanized units and artificial intelligence makes ours look out of date." After much discussion and debate it was agreed that a group of senators and diplomats would meet with the Alliance delegates. They would be joined by Jedi masters Unduli and Windu and a few Jedi knights to insure negotiations stayed peaceful.

Bidding him fair well the call to the chancellor's office was cut and Admiral Wullf left the room to allow the Jedi to communicate in private. "Master it seems you're feeling about the relay was right, we have come across an oddity." Obi-wan explained "it seems that one of the soldiers of this 'alliance' found a holocron left by Nomi Sunrider." "What's more he not only seems to have activated it but seems to have…absorbed both the force within it and the information it contained." Anakin interjected "That's impossible!" Mundi said looking to Yoda "strange, almost unheard of it is but not impossible." Yoda said "but how?" mundi asked "the only way would be by using a kind of force drain surely?" Windu asked "I believe so" obi-wan answered "however I don't think it empowered him like it was meant to with the old sith. In fact it weakened him. If I hadn't helped him I don't think he would have ever of been able to awaken." "The ability to drain or steal force in such a way is surely an act of the dark side?" Shaak Ti asked alarmed "I don't think he done it consciously I have reviewed the footage of when it happened, and have even been inside his mind there was no presence of the dark side there. I believe the force reached out to him and in his inexperience and lack of understanding he reacted badly." Obi-wan said defending Ryan.

"Masters this isn't the only thing about the boy he is very strong in the force. When we came through the relay me, Anakin and Ahsoka could all sense him and feel his struggle. Not to mention when I tried to heal his mind from the trauma of taking on too much of the holocron he almost over powered me in self-defense. I fear if Anakin had not come with me to act as an anchor I may have been lost also. And lastly masters after I had healed Ryan's mind and was helping him regain consciousness we shared a vision. It showed Ryan wielding great skill with the force while defending the council from Count Dooku saving our lives by holding him off long enough for other Jedi to arrive." "strange I have had this vision as well the last few nights I have seen a boy I do not recognize defending the council with his life while we lay unconscious in some kind of ruin." Master Windu said "meet this boy the council must. Sense he will play an important role in the future I do." Yoda said "also obi-wan if in-tack this holocron is, recover its contents we must." "I concur, any lessons that Nomi Sunrider can teach us will be invaluable." Plo Koon agreed "Then it's agreed Obi-wan and Anakin will remain and try to learn what they can about the boy. As well as the situation and Sunrider's involvement in the station until the rest of us arrive and then we will reconvene. May the force be with you both." Master Windu said "and with you Master" Obi-wan and Anakin replied.


	4. Welcome to the Sol System

Chapter 4

Hi guys thanks for reading this chapter is a little raunchier than the others so far. Defiantly rated M with slash if you don't like or are too young please don't read. let me know what you think so far. who do you want to see Ryan with? what mass effect characters do you want to see in this story? let me know. Thanks guys :)

It had been two days from when Ryan had awoken and the Republic representatives were due in the next few hours. Ryan sat in the mass relay's new conference room listening to Minister Donnel Uidna waffle on about the importance of this discovery and how each member of Earth's delegation had a role to play. The meeting went on for what felt like hours before the Prime minister gave one last speech and dismissed them. Ryan hurried out of the room, over the last few days he had been asked a million and one questions about the Republic and the Jedi he wanted to make sure he didn't get caught up answering anymore.

As soon as he got back to his quarters he changed and headed for the new, state of the art training rooms. As Ryan moved through the Relay's living quarters he couldn't help but be proud of Earth's mechanics and builders the station had been completely renovated looking brand new. Once at the training rooms Ryan spent a bit of time lifting weights before entering the simulation room. Where he found one of the Jedi running a simulation "Ahsoka!" Ryan called and paused her run. Ahsoka turned and smiled having spotted Ryan "lieutenant I didn't think they would ever let you out of that meeting." Ryan chuckled "neither did I it was a practically long one but then your potentially dangerous alien reinforcements arrive today, can you blame them for being a bit cautious." "No I guess not but we still have some time fancy running a simulation with me?" "Sure my pick" Ryan smiled back.

Ryan liked Ahsoka she was easy to get along with and surprisingly the fact that she was an alien really didn't bother him. In fact anyone he noticed staring too long at her or whispering as she passed when he was with her got a personal grilling. Once the simulation was picked (Luna defence) Ryan grabbed his gun and the program began. Ryan and Ahsoka battled side by side with ease in fact even though Ryan barely knew Ahsoka the two worked together like a team of veterans. "You fight well lieutenant" Ahsoka said jumping to flank a group of simulated riders. Ryan threw several grenades taking out most of their attackers and then running to catch Ahsoka up. "You're not too bad yourself Padawan" Ryan laughed.

After the training program was finished Ryan excused himself and headed back to his room to shower and change. However as he opened the door he stopped in his tracks James was stood before him in nothing more than a pair of obscenely tight boxers. Ryan couldn't help his eyes from traveling up James built body past his thick toned legs to his boxers that seemed to be bursting at the seams. The thin fabric stretched to braking point over a huge bulge outlined perfectly. After the brief pause Ryan's eyes continued up the perfect torso lingering on two of the best pecks Ryan had ever seen. When his eyes finally reached James's face he noticed a smug smirk lurking there. Ryan blushed a deep shade of red and turned away moving to his side of the room and looking for a towel and his shaving kit.

While Ryan rummaged through his things James stood in the middle of the room stretching and flexing his body making his muscles ripple. Ryan focused on what he was doing trying not to notice James as he bent over stretching his tight boxers even more showing off a tight, firm and perfectly round butt. After finding his razor Ryan turned round forcing himself to focus on James's eyes not the tattoos that went perfectly with his ripped pecks. "You ok sir? You look a little stiff" James said moving towards Ryan. "Fine thank you just a tough workout" Ryan replied suddenly starting to sweat. "I can help with that sir I give an excellent massage, perfect for any stiffness." James was now so close Ryan could feel his breath on his skin. James then took the next move and leaned into whisper in Ryan's ear brushing his crotch against Ryan's. "I know how to make you feel good after a workout…sir "Ryan jumped back. "That won't be needed thank you James a nice shower will do the trick" Ryan the pushed past James and headed for the shower room his boner trapped against his leg.

Ryan had luckily found an empty shower room and hurried inside shutting the door he wasted no time stripping and getting under the hot stream of water. He could feel his tension and stiffness washing away under the steam. He relaxed and cleared his mind as he worked his shower gel into a foam and covered his body. Rubbing his hands down his chest and over his eight pack his mind drifted to James. Closing his eyes he thought of every curve and mound on James immaculate body. As Ryan thought of James skimpy boxers his hands began to explore his body feeling himself going hard again he had a quick look round to make sure he was still alone. He got back under the hot water letting his body shiver with pleasure he added more shower gel to his hands and continued his exploration of his body. As he began to focus on his balls he remembered how close James had been he closed his eyes again remembering the feeling of James whispering in his ear. Now rock hard he began to play with his cock the feeling pleasure over taking him he let out a loud moan.

Meanwhile Kaidan had come down to the showers after a briefing from Anderson. He had entered a shower room at random and had just finished stripping when he heard someone moan. He was about to clear his throat letting whoever it was they were no longer alone when he realised the moaning was coming from Ryan. He felt himself go instantly hard. The idea of catching Ryan in the act turned him on like mad. Kaidan moved to where the showers were and took a peak. Sure enough there stood Ryan butt naked in all his glory his toned body shining under the steaming shower. Ryan turned showing off his 8.5 inch member fully hard and covered in soap which almost made Kaidan cum without even touching himself. Kaidan took hold of his pulsing member and he watched Ryan pump his cock while his other hand played with his nipples. Kaidan wanted nothing more than to go over and take care of Ryan's low hanging balls but fear kept him in place, making him more excited with the thrill of getting caught. Ryan started moaning and grunting louder as his hand fell down to his balls pulling and squeezing. Kaidan fought back a gasp as he slid his finger across his crack he quickly lubed his finger with spit and slid it into himself trying his best to keep quite as he pictured it was Ryan pleasuring him instead. Meanwhile Ryan's moans had got more desperate and his hand moved faster and faster. Kaidan knew he didn't have long. So he wanked like his life depended on it hitting his prostate with his finger it was all he could do not to scream out. With his hand moving at a blur he hit his prostate one last time and his knees buckled as his orgasm hit him and he shot rope after rope all over the floor. As he finished Ryan cried out and fell to his knees as his cum flew across the room 6 or 7 ropes flying onto the floor.

Kaidan jumped up and quickly wrapped his towel round his waist and collecting his things ran from the room. As the door banged shut Ryan jumped up quickly washing away his evidence. While it was common practice for marines to find release it was still a bit embarrassing especially if someone stood in your 'release'. However no one came into the shower so Ryan guessed whoever it was just needed the sinks. After finishing his shower and shaving Ryan headed back to his room luckily his bunk mate James was nowhere to been seen so Ryan was able to dress alone.

0-0-0-0

Standing in his formal officers uniform Ryan waited while the Republic ship docked. He looked over to Kaidan who stood alongside him but for some reason Kaidan refused to meet his eye. In fact Kaidan had been funny with him from the minute they had arrived in the hanger to greet the Republic delegation. Frowning Ryan focused a head smiling as he met Anakin's eye who returned the gesture. As the ship landed and the loading door came down, the tension in the hanger could be cut with a knife. Ryan felt the room hold its breath as figures appeared at the top of the ramp he moved forward worried that an over nervous marine might do something silly. Anderson realised what he was doing and moved as well standing between the Republic ship and the alliance forces. Down the ramp came a group of men and women Obi-wan stepped forward. "Prime minister, Ministers Admirals and members of the Alliance I would like you to meet Senator Bail Organa, Senator Orn Free taa and Senator Lexi Dio. Along with Sate Pestage and Senator Jannie Ha'Nook I would also like to introduce High General Mace Windu and General Luminara Unduli. Masters, Senators I would like to introduce Prime Minister Amul Shastri, Ministers Udina, Chan and Irwin. Along with Admirals David Anderson and Steven Hackett. Not forgetting Professor Lloyd Martins, Dr David Hill, Major Kaidan Alenko and Frist Lieutenant Ryan Gibbs.

Bail Organa stepped forward as did the Prime Minister "on behalf of the Systems Alliance Parliament and the United Nations pf Earth I hear by welcome you to the sol system and Alliance space." The Prime minister smiled and extended his hand Bail reached out and took it. "Thank you Prime minister I and my fellow delegates come on behalf of the Galactic Senate and the Republic. The supreme chancellor sends his regards and apologies for not coming in person but with the war he was unable to get away." "I understand Senator, but please you must all join me in retiring to dining area I'm sure your trip has made you all hungry. Besides I would like to know you better before we start negotiations." "Yes that sounds like a wonderful idea" Senator Orn said stepping forward. The Prime Minister flinched a little as the massive Twi'lek stepped toward him and a few marines even reached for guns but Ryan and Anakin moved almost as one to defuse the situation. Before long they were all sitting round a large table human and alien mixed together as one. However Ryan couldn't help but notice the Jedi masters at the table staring at him and mumbling in hushed tones. Ryan had the feeling this was going to be a long few days.


	5. Chapter 5 The Brightstar

Hi guys thanks for reading sorry for such a delay but traveling the world means limited internet. Hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing. :)

Ryan walked into the gym desperate to let off some steam. The last few days had been a blur from when the republic had arrived. Ryan had sat in countless meetings discussing everything from trade agreements to military assistance in the war against the separatists. It was like torture, tedious disagreements about anything and everything. That was forgetting the several endless meetings and questions from the Jedi about his memories and knowledge of Nomi Sunrider. Even when he thought it was over they would simply make another appointment to see him the next day. Ryan began to take his frustration and pent up energy out on the punching bags. Eventually he noticed a marine in full uniform waiting at attention. "Can I help you marine?" Ryan said without stopping his flow punching up a sweat. "Sir Admiral Anderson summons you to his office." The marine answered a little awkwardly "fine tell him I'll be a long after a shower" Ryan sighed coming to a standstill. "Ermm Sir my orders are to escort you to him immediately" the marine insisted with a little more confidence. "Fine, if you must" Ryan stopped only to grab a bottle of water and then followed the marine to Anderson's office.

Once there Anderson's assistant showed Ryan straight in. "you wanted to see me sir?" Ryan asked standing straight. Anderson looked up from his desk "yes please take a seat. Would you like a drink?" Anderson asked in a strained tone. "Yes thank you sir, I'll have whatever you have." Anderson got up and poured them both a whisky from his drink cabinet and passed one to Ryan and took his seat. "Ryan as you know tomorrow marks the last day of these negotiations. As I'm sure you are also aware Minister Udina has been named first Ambassador of the Alliance to the Republic." Ryan nodded and took a sip of his drink trying not the cough as the liquid burnt his throat. "Well it has been agreed that I and a group of marines will accompany him to act as advisors and as a security detail. So long story, short I am enlisting the Normandy's crew to come with me" Anderson finished. "Wow sir this is an honor thank you, but Major Alenco is the leader of the Normandy does he know?" Ryan asked. "Yes he has already been informed and is telling the rest of the crew as we speak however that's not the only reason I called you hear. The Jedi have made a request that when we reach Coruscant you attend a meeting with their full high council." Ryan rolled his eyes "sir if I have to I will meet them but I can't see what I can tell them that I have not already." Anderson sighed and stood up "It seems their grandmaster has expressed and desire to meet you. Look Ryan I know this isn't your idea of fun but the order has come from the prime minister himself. These Jedi are strange to us we need a better understanding of them, and no one has more information about them then you. I believe command would like to make you an ambassador of sorts between the Jedi and us. It's known the Jedi are an integral part of the republic, keeping them on our side is vital. I can't explain to you how important this join with the republic is. The technological befits they can offer us alone are invaluable" Ryan nodded. "Well then sir I'll do everything in my power to insure that the Alliance is held in the highest possible light" Ryan said. "I'm glad to hear it lieutenant we depart on the republic vessel 'The Brightstar' in two days."

0-0-0-0

Ryan climbed out of the shuttle behind Anderson and the politicians he had been given the honor of traveling aboard The Brightstar with. A few of the senators and most of the Jedi had already left on Obi-wan's ship after some important development called them away. Leaving only General Skywalker, Padawan's Ahsoka, Barris Offee and Lynx Prodition, Senator Orn free taa and a few other republic diplomats. However as they left the shuttle there was a man not much older than Ryan and dressed in Jedi robes waiting for them with a group of soldiers. He walked and met them in the middle " ladies and gentlemen welcome aboard The Brightstar I'm Jedi Captain Commander Hutch Stoneson and I'm here to insure you have a safe and enjoyable journey" He said and smiled at Ryan. Kaidan cleared his throat, hutch turned to look at him and his smile widened "let me show you to the quest quarters" hutch added. As they moved through the ship Ryan couldn't help but notice the high number a guards dressed in dark blue armour. "Any reason for all the extra security?" Ryan asked. "This star destroyer is used to transport senators and important persons on high priority missions. The men you see are of the senate guard the best non-clone forces we have, and they are always present on this ship it's a very important vessel." Hutch explained.

Once on the guest level hutch took the lead explaining where everything was Ryan couldn't help but let his eyes wonder and they found that hutch's robes were actually quite tight and complimented his ass really well. He felt himself hypnotised watching it sway left and right. A giggle woke him up and he turned to see Ahsoka looking at him with an all-knowing smile to make things worse she then winked. Knowing he'd been caught Ryan blushed a deep red which only caused Ahsoka to giggle harder.

0-0-0-0

After a particularly long dinner in which Ryan had spent the whole time wishing he had been allowed to travel with the rest of the crew he, Kaidan and Dr David retired to their quarters. Ryan tried to make small talk as he and Kaidan changed for bed but as he had been for the last week or so Kaidan was acting weird only giving one or two word answers and never meeting Ryan's eye. Finally Ryan stopped wearing nothing but boxer briefs and a vest he went and sat on Kaidan's bed. Kaidan looked round at him "Ryan what are you doing?" he asked still not looking Ryan in the eye. "Getting comfortable because I'm not moving until you tell me what's going on. I keep asking and you keep saying nothing but Kaidan you've barely spoken to me in days something must be wrong!" Ryan said continually trying to meet Kaidan's eye. Kaidan panicked he couldn't look Ryan in the eye because he felt awful for spying on him in the shower but he couldn't admit that. He racked his brain trying to come up with an excuse for his strange behavior.

"It's. it's about shepherd," he blurted out. Ryan's face turned from questioning to a shocked sadness. "Kaidan I'm so sorry I had no idea… why didn't you say?" Ryan asked, "Well it's hard. It's been hard for us all since we lost him everyone's life has been turned upside down. None of us really had the chance to say goodbye or come to terms with him being gone before we were thrown into this mess" he said looking at the ground. It was half true he did miss shepherd like crazy and he did feel lost without him. Shepherd was more than just his commander he was his friend he would have known what to do with kalian's feelings for Ryan. Not to mention with shepherd gone how could he be expected to lead the Normandy no one could fill shepherd's shoes. Ryan leapt up without warning and pulled Kadian in for a massive hug. "It's ok we all miss him. I wish I could ask for his advice and let him take the lead again just for a few days, and I wasn't even almost as close to him as you were." Ryan stroked Kaidan's back as he spoke hoping the words would sink in. "thanks" Kadian, mumbled wrapping his arms around Ryan as well. More gilt washing over him at using his dead friend as an excuse for his awkwardness around Ryan. Ryan took a step back breaking the hug and looked into kaidan's face sadness in his eyes "take all the time you need. And if you ever need a chat or anything.. anything at all let me know, I'd do anything for you Kaidan." Kaidan met Ryan's eyes and smiled "me too" he whispered.

0-0-0-0

Ryan tossed and turned in bed the moments he was first aboard the mass relay flashing before him. Again and again he heard his voice giving the order to seal the safe room and then he saw Shepherd and the others banging on the doors begging to be let in. then he saw shepherd and Ashley standing before him "you betrayed us Ryan you didn't even try to save us. You killed us cutting us off from our only way out! It was your fault! You killed us!" then while they continued to yell at him they both set on fire and they burned and screamed as they cursed him. Ryan yelled out begging them to forgive him saying that he had no choice "there's always a choice" Ashley screamed, "You murdered us!" Ryan continued to cry out pleading with them. Then he felt someone holding him and he turned to see Dr Noah his face half burnt holding him, as the others got closer. Then with a start he sat up covered in sweat in bed with Kaidan next to him holding his arm trying to calm him. Ryan couldn't hold back the tears and pulled Kaidan into him sniffling into his neck while Kaidan whispered that it was ok and he was safe now. After a while Ryan laid down again bringing Kaidan with him. He eventually fell asleep his face buried in Kaidan's chest and wrapped in his arms while Kaidan gently stroked his hair.

0-0-0-0

Ryan woke with a slowly feeling the warmth coming from Kaidan as he slept beside him relaxed him a little but he couldn't shake a bad feeling. He smiled weakly at Kaidan's handsome face and pulled himself up and into the shower changing into his uniform after. Seeing Kaidan was still asleep he went to explore the ship hoping to rid himself of this pressing sense of doom. He soon bumped into Hutch in the dining area who while concerned by Ryan's troubled feeling assured the young soldier as long as they were in hyperspace they were safe. However he agreed to take him on a tour of the ship if only to assure Ryan that there was no danger.

After showing Ryan everything from the armory to ship maintenance hutch opened another door right at the top of the ship. "And the last stop of our tour yet probably the best stop is the bridge" Hutch said gesturing around the room. Ryan looked round in awe the bridge was massive, much bigger than any vessel he'd served on before. Men and women moved around preforming 100s of tasks. "I've not seen many clones on board" Ryan pointed out. "Yes as I said the crew of this vessel are members of the senate guard and this ship itself falls within the special operations branch of the Army. So the clones on bored are off duty unless we come under attack. There are still republic soldiers and citizens who aren't clones yet serve our armed forces" Hutch explained. "I thought they were only high ranking officers" Ryan pointed out. "In most cases yes, but many special forces are still made up of non-clones" hutch explained. Hutch then went on to introduce Ryan to some of the officers.

"Well there you go, has our tour helped put your mind at ease?" Hutch asked. "Not really to be honest if anything I feel worse. I can't help be feel were walking into a trap," Ryan said. Hutch sighed determined to put the matter to rest he called over the captain. "Captain Can you run a full scan of the ship first Lieutenant Gibbs here feels were in some kind of danger" hutch ordered. "Yes sir" Captain Marnel saluted and moved over to one of the terminals. While they waited Hutch tried to make small talk about the alliance and earth but Ryan was barely listening he was watching the captain intently waiting for her to report an issue of some kind. Finally she turned "sir I think you should take a look at this." Hutch looked at her surprised but wondered over to the terminal Ryan not far behind him. "Look sir there, I'm picking up several heat signatures in the engine room" the Captain explained pointing at the screen "see I knew it! We need to get down there," Ryan said moving towards the door.

Hutch however grabbed his arm stopping him "I'm sure it's nothing, Captain send Lieutenant Amos and a few troopers to investigate." Ryan however didn't look pacified. "I assure you First Lieutenant it will be a couple of mechanics hiding from their duties nothing more" Hutch said looking Ryan in the eye. Ryan fidgeted while he waited for the captain to issue the orders and Hutch typed away on a second terminal. "I should go with them just to make sure" Ryan said hutch looked up at him from his computer terminal. "I'm afraid I can't let you do that Lieutenant your not republic military it's well outside of your jurisdiction" Hutch explained. "I think you'll find that it is well within my jurisdiction! I am an officer assigned to this vessel to insure the safe journey of Ambassador Udina and all Alliance individuals. Anything that could prove a threat to his or..." Ryan stopped mid-sentence and grabbed hold of the terminal.

Then before anyone could say anything the whole ship shuddered violently along with the sound of massive explosion. The shudder had knocked most people on the bridge off their feet. Ryan ran and helped Hutch and the Captain onto their feet. "What in blazes was that?" Hutch yelled. "Our hyperdrive has taken massive damage were dropping out of hyperspace in 3.2.1 leaving hyperspace" a young officer explained. Hutch opened his communicator "Barris, lynx I need you to take a squad and get to the engine room now!" hutch ordered "Ahsoka I need you on the bridge Anakin we've taken damage. Captain I want a full damage report." He barked. "Massive damage to our hyperdrive along with some considerable damage to the ships primary engine" she explained. "What caused it?" hutch asked with concern. "At a guess sir.. Sabotage." "Right I want the escape pods locked down no one is leaving this ship until we find out 100% what's going on." Barris appeared on the communicator "master the hyperdrive is done for. It seems someone set off some kind of explosive. However no sign as to whom it was yet but I recommend calling for help the damage is extensive we won't be going anywhere soon." Hutch went quite while he thought about what to do. "No jam all communications in and out, I feel this is not the end of our troubles" hutch said in a serious tone.

"Sir I have a distress signal being sent out from near the starboard escape pods!" "What?" hutch barked at a young sergeant. "We've blocked it now but I can't tell if it broke through before the jammer blocked the transmission" the officer explained. "Barris get down there!" hutch barked into his communicator. "We need to move we're too exposed out here in the open. Find somewhere we can take shelter behind." "Sir I've got a small planet coming up on our radar no ID on it I'm guessing unsettled" the captain said pointing to her screen. "Good move in beside that planet I don't want us being surprised by an enemy." Hutch ordered. "I couldn't think of a worse idea the planet will block us in making escape impossible should we be attacked" Ryan said. "I don't know if you noticed Lieutenant but we don't have much left of an engine if someone comes for us we won't have much chance to run anyway" hutch said glaring at Ryan. Ryan held his tongue as his communicator started beeping. "Sir" Ryan said answering the call. "Gibbs what on earth is going on!?" Anderson yelled. "Sir the situation is under control we have a small issue but it's nothing that can't be dealt with I would however recommend locking down the guest quarters to be on the safe side." Ryan answered calmly and cut the call before the admiral could respond. At that moment lynx ran onto the bridge "master Barris is in trouble she's found the saboteurs and engaged them but they are putting up resistance she sent me to get you!" Lynx said trying to catch his breath. "Captain have several squads meet me at the entrance to the escape pods!" At that moment Ahsoka sprinted into the room. Ahsoka you have the bridge bring us into that planet for shelter until I can regain complete control of the ship then we'll call for help, Lynx come with me." Hutch then glared at Ryan who shut his mouth silencing his prepared argument.

With Hutch gone Ahsoka ordered the lock down of the bridge to be on the safe side and oversaw the ship guided alongside the planet giving the ship protection from one side. Ryan paced about and protested furious at being stuck on the bridge and still feeling a sense of great danger. "Don't tell me you can't feel it too!" Ryan growled at Ahsoka. "Yes I feel it Ryan but Hutch is the Captain-Commander not to mention a full Jedi knight. I don't have a choice but to follow his orders," she explained. Throwing his arms up in frustration Ryan took a seat. "There's no need to Worry Lieutenant, Commander Hutch is one of the best he'll get us out of this" Captain Marnel stated. They all waited for Hutch to secure the ship and the mechanics to give a report on the engine. After what felt like an endless amount of time Hutch's voice came over the communicator. "We've taken out the saboteurs they were a mix of human and weequay. I can only guess they were bounty hunters and were trying to use to pods to escape. I'm on my way back I want a report on the engine as well as our position and surroundings when I return Hutch out"

"Drop the jamming signal and commence a scan of the area" captain Marnel ordered. Ryan suddenly felt overwhelmed with a sense of danger. The room began to spin and he almost fell of his chair. When he came round after a few minutes later Ahsoka was holding him steady. "Ryan what's wrong?" she asked worry etched on her face. "I'm fine sorry. It's as if I could feel our doom closing in on us it overtook me." He explained. "I could feel it too" Anakin said entering the room. "I can only guess that with your lack of training the force overwhelmed you. Captain send a distress signal priority 1 and contact anyone on a republic frequency tell them we have a code black" Anakin ordered "but sir we're not under attack" the captain questioned "not yet, but someone had broken the locks on my door trapping me in my quarters. When I finally got out they attacked using weapons too advanced for normal bounty hunters they wont be alone" Anakin replied. The several officers on the bridge scurried about carrying out the orders. "Captain have we got that report?" Hutch asked entering and standing next to Anakin "yes sir we're in uncharted space no record of any civilized life within the area. As for the planet beside us scans show it to be safe for humans and most races, temperate climate and mostly plain lands with some jungles and forests." The captain explained "sir we're picking up ships exiting hyperspace" a young female officer piped up. "Get the shields up and prepare to fire" Anakin ordered "sir the shield generator was hit in the engine explosion we have minimal shields" One of the Sargent's exclaimed. There was a stunned silence on the bridge as 4 destroyers dropped out of hyperspace and opened fire on the ship.

"Evacuate everyone to the planet now! Keep that distress signal strong as long as you can and keep scanning for help we can only hope for a swift rescue now they've pinned us in." Anakin yelled. Ryan tried to wipe the 'I told you so' look off his face. "Ahsoka take Ryan, Lynx and Barris and oversee the VIP evacuation from the ship I'm putting you in charge of their safety. Once on the ground I want you to get away from the main landing forces and hid out until help arrives we will act as a distraction." Anakin said, "master I should stay with you let Barris and lynx protect them, together we can hold them off," Ahsoka argued. "No Ahsoka I'm not expecting to hold them off I'm planning to distract while you go underground and Barris will need you. Besides our mission to get the VIP's including Ryan to Coruscant is too important to risk now go," Anakin said. "You can help us once the republic arrives" he said with a wink.

Ahsoka grabbed Ryan and the two ran to the escape pods. Once there they found Lynx, Barris and a few squads trying to clear the ruminants from the earlier battle. "The VIPs should be here any second" Barris said noticing Ahsoka. With that the far door opened and several members of the senate guard escorted both the Alliance and Republic members in. The three padawans then set about splitting up the groups for escape pods. "Ryan thank god your ok!" Ryan turned to see David running toward him followed closely by Kaidan. "I'm fine. Listen I need the two of you to go first with the Ambassador and Anderson I'll be in the pod behind" Ryan started explaining. "You're joking if you think we'll leave you" Kaidan stated blankly. "Listen Kaidan they are our priority we need to keep them safe take Ben, Lucy and a marine or two with you. I'll take the left overs I have no intention of leaving anyone behind but if we have to better them then Anderson or Udina" Ryan said sternly. "Agreed just make sure you're in the next shuttle I plan on all of us making it through this!" Kaidan said firmly and moved to prepare the others. "Right behind us Ryan!" David said rising an eyebrow. "I promise" Ryan said meeting David's eye. David then followed Kaidan and hopped into the pod behind the others. Ryan then sealed the pod with Lynx's help and hit the release button.

"Right your next" Lynx said looking at Ryan. "Hang on let me just grab my stragglers" Ryan said moving through the group to an Alliance diplomat. However just as he reached him there was a massive explosion knocking everyone flying. Then before they could recover they all started being sucked towards a hole in the side of the ship. Ryan franticly reached out but missed the diplomat as he was sucked away. However Ryan didn't move he looked down to see a firm arm wrapped tightly around him. "Lynx what do we do!" he yelled. "Hold on!" Lynx yelled back. Seconds later a door slammed shut cutting off the side of the bay with a hole returning the bay to normal. "What the hell happened?!" Ryan asked turning to Lynx as he released him. "I have no idea that came from the planet it must have" Barris said worried. "They must have anti-air cannons" Lynx said puzzled. "Right well these pods are useless now" Ahsoka said "we have to get to the other side of the ship" the group looked at her and nodded running as fast as their slowest member a small republican diplomat wearing long robes.

The small group soon reached the other side of the ship where they found Anakin and most of the crew boarding the escape pods. "Ahsoka what are you doing here I told you to evacuate" Anakin fumed. "We tried master but we're taking fire from the planet. It ripped a hole in the escape bay almost killed us all" Ahsoka explained. "And the other VIPs?" Anakin asked. "Most where launched safely Master Skywalker however some of the diplomats were lost" Barris explained. "Very well, Ahsoka Barris and Lynx you gather the rest of the diplomats and take a pod. Lieutenant I must ask for your help those cannons that are hitting us from the planet must be pretty powerful to cause this much damage even at long distance. We can only assume that the separatists have a well-established base here. Which means they will be waiting for us when we land. So I need your help to lead the distraction team its our best hope of getting the VIPs to safety while we wait for extraction" Anakin explained while handing Ryan a gun. "Of course sir I'm on board whatever it takes to get our cargo to its destination" Ryan said taking the gun and standing tall. "Excellent Hutch has gone to the engine room with a few men to try and rig the ship to implode once we are clear and try and take out any ships that are too close. Go help him and then get him back here as quick as you can I do not want to lose any more men then I have to. I'm heading down to the planet now to try and cover the VIPs escape" Anakin explained climbing into a free pod. "All clear sir see you down there" Ryan said with a salute and then ran for the engine room.

Half way there Ryan was rounding a corner when he ran full pelt into hutch. "Ryan what the hell are you doing here!" Hutch yelled helping Ryan up. "Looking for you Anakin said you could use my help" Ryan said brushing himself off and following hutch back the way he'd just come. "No the ships been boarded I've managed to set a small self-destruct but it will only destroy the ship and anything aboard. All the same we need to get the hell out of here. The others were all killed when the ship was boarded I barely made it out" Hutch explained. As they opened the door to the escape bay they found Super battle droids destroying any escape pods left. Hutch leapt into action cutting the droids closest to them down before they had a chance to react. Ryan jumped into cover behind the doorway and provided covering fire. However even in the heat of battle Ryan couldn't help but be in awe of Hutch he moved like a master. It was less like fighting more like dancing every move he made hand a reason to block a blaster bolt or strike a droid it was amazing.

Before long the entire bay was clear and only Hutch stood catching his breath. "That was amazing! I mean I remember Jedi fighting from Nomi Sunrider but it didn't seem real but that was right in front of me with my own eyes!" Ryan gushed. "We don't have time!" hutch said pushing Ryan into the closest escape pod. They both took their seats and began strapping in when the first explosion went off and hutch launched them. They shot away and were just clearing the ship when a massive ball of fire erupted consuming everything around it. Hutch flew as fast as he could but the shockwaves hit them and knocked them spinning. "I can't regain control! Hold on we're entering the planets atmosphere this is going to get bumpy" hutch yelled. Ryan looked out of the cockpit window and said a small prayer as the planet before them rapidly got bigger and bigger. Hutch some how was able to deploy landing gear which helped slow them down but they were still coming in way too fast "hold on!" Ryan heard hutch yell and then everything went black.


	6. Chapter 6 Over my dead body part one

Sorry bit of a mammoth chapter (had to cut it into sections just to be able to post it lol) but I hope you enjoy. Starting to get a real feeling of where I want the story to head. Let me know what you think.

Ryan slowly came to and sat up. After a quick glance round to access the situation he reached for his gun and with relief found it still holstered. Pulling it out and turning off the safety he got up and started to look around. He found the Jedi Hutch unconscious at the head of the escape pod. After trying to rouse him Ryan gave up deciding to try and carry him out. Ryan pulled Hutch's arm over his shoulders and slowly got him up. Then with a struggle he slowly hobbled out dragging Hutch with him.

Once outside he set Hutch down a little to the side of the pod and began looking round. He found himself in the middle of a valley in a bit of a crater from where the prod crashed. After scanning around for any kind of danger he returned to the pod satisfied they were safe for now. Back in the pod he rummaged round for supplies or weapons. He found a few packs of emergency rations along with some medical kits and a blaster.

He filled them all into a few bags and carried them outside going back and having one last check of the pod he saw something silver glint from under hutches chair. He bent down and grabbed it noticing it was Hutch's lightsaber. He placed it in a bag as well for safekeeping. He then began looking at the pod controls guessing that most of them would be useless he then found the distress beacon. He thought about it for a second, as much as he wanted an evac he didn't want to attract the attention of any enemies. Going with his gut he turned it on and then hurried outside and began dragging Hutch back to a safe distance.

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Hutch opened his eyes and sensed danger. He sat up and started to clear his throat when a hand clamped over his mouth and pushed him back down. "Shhh they will hear us," a voice whispered. Hutch was about to react pushing the hand off and moving to safety when he noticed the clanking of droids. So he laid still and kept quite. After what felt like a lifetime the clanking faded away into the distance. "There I think we're safe for the moment," the voice said and the hand moved away. Hutch sat up and looked round to find Ryan the alliance marine sitting next to him covered in mud. They were in thick vegetation in some kind of forest or jungle by the look of things. "How are you feeling" Ryan asked looking him over. "Ok what's going on?" Hutch asked. "We crashed onto that planet we battled over. You've been out for about 6 or 7 hours so I brought us here for safety" Ryan explained. "Wow by yourself you saved a Jedi and hid from the droids?" Hutch questioned. "I am a soldier, commander. I'm trained to deal with these situations," Ryan said with a chuckle. "Of course" Hutch blushed.

There was a slight pause and then hutch looked down and found himself topless and also covered in mud. "Why are we both covered in mud?" He asked raising an eyebrow. "To help us camouflage" Ryan said "oh and you're topless so I could treat you wound. Nothing serious just a cut but its quite deep I had to stitch it so be careful not to reopen it" Ryan said in a serious tone. "I don't feel anything" hutch said gingerly feeling his torso. "Yeah I didn't know how much painkiller to give you so I may have over done it" just as the words left Ryan's mouth Hutch poked the wound just under his left peck along his side and winced. "To be honest it took me a while to find it. It was only when I moved you and noticed your robes were wet that I found it. It was a clean cut as well at a guess id say it was you safety buckle as we crashed" Ryan explained. "Well thank you lieutenant you've done a fine job what about the pod?" Hutch asked. "I sent out a distress call and high tailed it over here we had just reached the tree line when the droids swarmed over the pod. It wasn't easy to lose them dragging you left quite the tracks behind. But we seem to have eluded them for now" Ryan said. Hutch nodded and reached for his lightsaber and suddenly panicked "my saber I've lost it!" Hutch gasped jumping up suddenly feeling the pain from his wound hit him. "Relax I've got it here!" Ryan said reaching into a bag and pulling it out. Upon seeing it hutch relaxed "thank you. It seems I would've been truly lost without you" hutch said. "You're welcome sir just doing my job" Ryan smiled "however we should probably get moving. The next patrol might find us." Hutch nodded and Ryan helped him back into his robes and the two of the moved off.

They circled round in the forest being careful not to leave any tracks and ended higher up the valley giving them a chance to see what was going on. The pod was surrounded by droids and there were groups heading out in all directions. "So going back to the pod isn't an option" hutch chuckled. "I don't know maybe if we ask nicely they might give us a lift" Ryan chuckled back and hutch laughed. "Maybe, or maybe we can follow their tracks back and see where they lead" Hutch said "sounds like a plan sir ill take the lead" Ryan said.

The two of them headed off across the top of the valley trying to keep as low as possible so as not to be seen. As they reached the bank of a river that seemed to run most of the length of the path the droids had made hutch flopped down exhausted. The painkillers had started to wear off and he was struggling. "Do you need a rest sir?" Ryan asked concerned. "No we need to keep moving" Hutch insisted trying to get up. "Sir take your time and rest a little otherwise you'll pass out and I'll have to carry you again which will slow us down even more" Ryan said firmly. "Fine 15 minutes" Hutch said as Ryan passed him some water. "Stay here I'm just going to climb this hill and have a look around" Ryan said. Hutch stayed where he was catching his breath and enjoying the water. He laid back and closed his eyes for just a second.

Hutch woke with a start at the sound of a click. Opened his eyes and found himself looking down the barrel of a super battle droid. He reached for his lightsaber and found it wasn't there. He slowly raised his arms in surrender. As the droids were loading him onto a transport he looked round for Ryan. He then spotted him hiding up the hill behind a rock. Hutch saw him nod at him and then without warning Ryan open fired. Taking out 2 sb2 droids before they knew what was happening. Hutch got as low as possible and was slowly sliding backwards away while the droids were distracted until something grabbed and held a blaster to his head. "Hold fire or the Jedi dies!" A deep voice next to him boomed. Ryan stopped firing and came out of cover hands up. Hutch watched helplessly as the droids searched Ryan and placed him in cuffs. "Good store him with the Jedi" the voice boomed Again. And Hutch felt himself thrown into some kind of container. He turned to spot a hulking weequay watching him gun ready. The stare between the two of them lasted a while until the weequay smirked and then Ryan was thrown in on top of him. "Hope you're comfortable boys this is a bit of a journey" the weequay laughed walking away.

Ryan and hutch stood squashed face to face in a container built for one. Ryan tried to distract himself from the situation. But all he could think of was how close hutch was and his musky smell of mud, sweat and something else. He could feel Hutch's shallow breath on his neck and his leg on his crotch. 'Think of gross things' Ryan thought to himself 'old ladies death anything just not here and now'. Little did he know hutch was doing the same thing. 'You are a Jedi Hutch you are above such things; you can ignore your primal urges! Yes he is very good looking and you can feel his muscles against yours and your leg is in between his. But you are in control of your emotions, although he dose smell good. No stop it!' Then suddenly the whole container was lifted and turned on its side so that Ryan was now lying on top of hutch. They then felt the container placed down, and whatever they were placed on started moving.

After around ten minutes of rumbling along Ryan started fidgeting. "What are you doing?" Hutch whispered. "I just remembered something," Ryan whispered back. After a bit of a struggle he managed to get his shoe off and reach inside. "Ok I'm hoping they're taking us along the same path they used which that river runs along. If so when I bust us out run for the river! It should be enough cover for us to get away," Ryan explained in whispers. Hutch nodded "ok ready one, two" just as Ryan was about to say three they stopped moving. Ryan quickly slipped his hand into his pocket.

The container flew open and both Ryan and Hutch were grabbed and pulled out. They were both dragged in front of a small ship where a very tall man stood Ryan guessed he must have been in his 60s or 70s but he stood straight and proud. "Release him," the man ordered in a deep and authoritative tone. "My dear boy I am so sorry that you got caught up in all this!" He said as Ryan slumped to the ground. "I understand you are new to this galaxy and can hardly be blamed for picking the wrong side of the war when you haven't heard both sides. Allow me to introduce myself I am count Dooku," the man said helping Ryan up. "Don't listen to a word he says Ryan he is sith they are a scourge on this galaxy!" Hutch yelled, "take the Jedi away!" Dooku ordered and Hutch was marched away yelling back to Ryan. "You see my boy the Jedi in their arrogance miss understand me. Is it so wrong to want to brake away from their inaction and foolishness? The republic is corrupted and sick the only hope for the galaxy is too reform. That is why I started the separatist movement. I hope you have the sense to see that" Dooku said as he lead Ryan to the ship. "Its not really a discussion I can make. It's for my government to decide who they support I'm just a soldier" Ryan answered trying to block his emotions. "I sense you don't trust me I understand but you must understand the Jedi have fed you lies about me" dooku said "well you did attack the ship I was on I think I can see where they're coming from" Ryan interrupted. "Yes I am sorry but we are at war I was unaware there was anyone but republic personal aboard the ship when we attacked. It seems the Jedi and republic wanted to keep your presence quite" dooku said taking a seat on the ship and gesturing for Ryan to sit opposite. "Well as I said I'm just a soldier," Ryan said taking the seat. "Oh you are so much more than that I sensed it the minute I laid eyes on you. You could convince your government to join with us or at least to not join the republic. I can feel the force brewing within you I know you are trying to hide your feelings from me. If I was a lesser force user it might have worked but in your inexperience I see through you. Help me and I can teach you how to truly hide your feelings and so much more" Dooku said. "I will talk to my people but as I said I can not effect their discussion. However I will also need to return with those I came with," Ryan said. "Of course! They will go with you as soon as we have found them" dooku smiled.

Ryan felt the ship land and followed dooku out scanning everywhere they walked looking for weaknesses or weapons. "Good you have a quick mind we haven't left the ship and already you look for an escape route. You will need that intelligence if you are to be my apprentice" dooku said. The two of them stepped off the ship and Ryan noticed they we in a massive fortress with droids everywhere and enormous anti-air guns probably the same ones that helped rip the ship apart. "Where are we?" Ryan asked. "This is our headquarters on this planet" Dooku replied. He then led Ryan down several hallways until they reached a tall door. "These will be your quarters until we have located your colleagues. Let any of the droids know if you need anything" dooku said as the door opened. "Thank you" Ryan smiled and took a seat on the sofa. The count bowed and left.

The door shut and Ryan counted to 30 then stood up. A small droid came over" is there anything I can get you sir?" It asked. "A drink and something to eat would be good along with directions to the toilet" Ryan said calmly. "Of course sir this way to the lavatory" it chimed and hurried off. Ryan followed reaching a small clean bathroom. Damn it Ryan thought no windows. After shutting and locking the door he searched for a weapon. He settled for a thick piece of wood that looked a bit like bamboo used as decoration. He quietly left the bathroom in search of a window. The third door he tried was a bedroom with enormous widows over looking the fortress. Luckily the window was unlocked so Ryan opened it and slipped out onto the ledge. Glancing round he closed the window behind him and carefully climbed down.

When he was low enough he jumped landing on a balcony over the courtyard. Pulling his bit of wood from the back of his shirt he tried the door leading back inside thankfully it was also open and he slipped in. However he was just shutting the door when two battle droids came into the room. Without thinking Ryan charged them smashing ones head off and the battering the other till it stopped moving. He took a deep breath pulling the second head off to be on the safe side. He looked around he was in some kind of office. So he quickly blocked the door with a cupboard and grabbed one of the droids blasters.

Sitting down at the desk he tried to remember everything Ahsoka had told and shown him about alien computers. After turning it on and finding the basic way around he started searching for maps. Before long he had one of the whole fortress and another of the several crash sites from the Brightstar and a list of action taken. Most survivors it seemed and been taken to the 'holding pen' he searched for anymore information he could find. That's when he noticed newly charged groups of droids were heading there.

Quickly gathering himself he went back out to the balcony and climbed down to the courtyard keeping to the shadows and moving slowly. Once on the ground he skirted round still using the shadows. That's when he noticed a crate peaking inside he saw it was filled with destroyer droids. Checking the coast was clear he jumped inside hiding amongst them. While he hid he began ripping out wires and cables left right and center just to make sure the droids didn't start up and find him.

After a long pause the box was lifted and loaded onto some kind of transport. Once he was confident he was loaded Ryan took the lazar from his pocket the one he'd placed there earlier. He then cut a hole in the crate big enough to get out of. Climbing out he looked round finding countless guns and weapons he grabbed a few things and the noticed the grenades cutting small holes in all of the crates he placed a couple grenades in each one then a few more in a pack that he put on and the rest spaced around. He then sat back and waited till they arrived at the holding pen.


	7. Chapter 7 Over my dead body part two

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Once the transport stopped Ryan acted cutting another hole in the bottom of the vehicle and hopping out. He then popped a grade in the hole and crawled like hell. He had just reached under the front transport when the first grenade went off. He then jumped out and ran for cover. Jumping behind a wall he heard the rest of the grades go off causing several of the other vehicles to explode as well. With the chaos going on at the front gate he easily climbed the wall and hopped over the top.

Once he was on the wall he looked round and could see a stairway leading down. He guessed that's where they kept prisoners so he headed round the wall keeping low. Better than he had hoped he heard a few more explosions go off at the front of the base. At which point more battle droids hurried up from the prison area and out the gate. Jumping off the wall he threw a couple of grenades at the gate and ran down the stairs. As soon as he saw droids he began firing taking of most of them before they had chance to react. The others then flew across the room smashing into the wall.

Ryan ran to the bottom of the stairs where he found what was left of the Brightstar crew and the Jedi. "Ryan!" Ahsoka cried "quick get us out of here!" Ryan ran to what looked like the control panel and began searching for a way to open the cages. Then finally he found it realizing them cage by cage. "Good work" Anakin said helping a clone carry hutch out of a cage at the back. He was clearly beaten up in fact all of them were but Hutch was by far the worst totally unconscious and black and blue. "We need to go that won't have gone unnoticed," Ryan said. He then looked round for Kaidan and Anderson or someone from the alliance. Noticing Ryan looking round Anakin stepped forward letting a clone take Hutch's other arm. "They killed most of the crew only keeping officers, diplomats and a few troopers hoping they could brake us. But they took your people and the senator we don't know where or why" Anakin explained to Ryan. "I do" Ryan said "dooku wanted me to get the alliance to turn on the republic but he knew I wouldn't do it without the others. He must be taking them back to their main fortress" Ryan said worried. "Well then lets go get them back he can't have anything good in mind" Anakin said patting Ryan on the shoulder.

After taking the weapons of the downed droids they charged up the steps taking out the few guards left inside the base and the took to the walls taking out the rest of the droids trying to put out the fires. "Wow you really didn't mess around. That's quite a mess" captain marnel laughed. "Thank you" Ryan said with a smile.

At this point they searched the base arming everyone with the blasters they found but no lightsabers were there. "Dooku must have them," Ahsoka said with a grimace. "Fine we take blasters then" Anakin said. They then split into three groups, one took the injured and diplomats then went to a safe spot in the mountains to await pick up. And the other two climbed into one of the remaining transports and headed back the fortress. Just before they were in sight of the fortress the second group jumped out heading into the river that ran along the path.

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Ryan sat in the transport taking deep breaths as it slowed to a stop. Then after a life time it stated moving again. It had worked they had managed to fool the droids. So he stood grenades in hands ready to let fly. When they stopped again he started counting. "One, two, three, four, five, six and then the back door opened and he started throwing. By the time the door was fully open the explosions had already started. At which point he, the clones and the crew charged out shooting like mad. "There's a gap go for the building!" Anakin yelled hopping off of the roof. They ran inside shooting all the way. We're clear the captain shouted and a clone set of a massive explosion from the transport. "Remember the plan each team takes a anti-air gun but stay clear of Dooku" Anakin said. "Yes sir" they all said and split up.

Ryan's team quickly found a security room and after a quick gun battle had control. "Right engineer Renna you and two clones stay here see what you can do to help us as well as get our location to the republic. After we leave stay here and don't let anyone in until I COM you" Ryan ordered pointing out two clones. "Yes sir" the three replied. "The rest of you with me" Ryan ordered and they moved out. It took them a while to reach their target slowed down by the loss of gun power and a few casualties. But once inside they bunkered down for the long battle managing to seal off reinforcements.

Eventually the after two losses they had control of the gunroom. "Good work boys!" Ryan shouted. "Ok Renna what do we do now," Ryan asked over the COM channel. "Well sir you can deactivate it or from what I'm reading in here you can turn off auto target then you could use it to help the republic ships when they arrive" the engineer explained. "Ok can we not just set it to auto fire on separatists?" Ryan questioned. "Sure but that would take time and there no guarantee it wouldn't fire on our ships as well" Renna pointed out. "Ok Renna talk me through getting it to auto fire on everything. The rest of you set up explosives on everything important looking well take out all we can and then blow this place apart" Ryan said and began following Renna's instructions with a captain Rex's help.

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Meanwhile Ahsoka, Barris and Lynx along with the first group snuck into the fortresses upper levels. They quickly found computers and began hacking trying to find information. "I'm in!" Barris said. "Good work, now find out where they are!" Ahsoka said not giving up. "Ryan was right they are here they're in somewhere called the guest quarters. But its heavily guarded in fact it looks like most of the droids left are stationed there" Barris explained. "We'll have to fight our way through" Lynx piped up. "Its too dangerous we'd be wiped out in minutes" Barris said. "Let me see Lynx said looking over Barris's shoulder. Frustrated Barris sat back and let him see. "Well if there are too many I guess we'll have to split them up" Lynx said typing away. "I sent out an order for all droids to head to the east side of the fortress," he said smugly. "What! That's where one of the guns are the team there will be wiped out!" Ahsoka said jumping up. "We need to warn them!" Barris gasped. "Wait I have a better idea you two go rescue the VIPs. I'll Take a few men and slow down the reinforcements heading to the gun," Lynx said. The two girls looked at each other seeing nothing better they agreed.

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Anakin hurried round the fortress letting the force guide him trying to find his and the others lightsabers. He ran past a door when he felt something. He ran back to it and charged in he spotted a lightsaber just laying on the desk "too easy" he smirked pulling it towards him with the force. As he caught it assassin droids jumped down from the ceiling. Anakin jumped to action slashing and cutting the droids down. He then stood catching his breath and smiled he would have to congratulate Hutch on a fine lightsaber later. He searched the room but found no more so moved on lightsaber in hand.

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"Lieutenant sir we have a problem!" Renna suddenly said, "What do you mean!" Ryan asked. "I mean we have a whole bunch of droids inbound!" She said. "Ok get out of there find somewhere safe" Ryan ordered "no can do sir that would mean they would get to you faster and you need more time" Renna pointed out. "Renna don't even think about it you wont stand a chance!" Ryan yelled "sorry sir but you need to take that gun out we are just expendable. It was an honor to meet you sir" Renna said and cut the link. "Renna Renna! Damn it! Get that door open I'm going back" Ryan barked, "sir you'll die" captain Rex said standing in front of the door. "So be it," Ryan growled. "I can't let that happen sir your still a VIP and so I can't let you throw your life away. And before you argue general Skywalker may have given you command but these are my men and they will follow my order" Rex said firmly. "I don't leave men to die!" Ryan yelled "nor do I sir when I have a choice but they have chosen to give their life that's different sir!" Rex replied. Ryan looked round, all the clones looked down not meeting his eye. Ryan yelled in frustration and then went back to retargeting the gun.

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Ahsoka and Barris battled their way through corridor after corridor. They both were tired and had already lost several members of their team. They had stopped to catch their breath when Barris noticed something in the room they were outside of. She opened the door and headed in. Just as Ahsoka called after her she noticed it as well a glint in the light, a lightsaber! Barris picked it up "oh its good to have it back" she said relaxing. Suddenly they heard a scream from the doorway and turned to see one of the crewmembers in paled on a spike from an assassin droid. They both reacted in a heartbeat Ahsoka shooting at it while Barris jumped to action deflecting its blasts. Finally it was defeated the two stood breathless. Then Barris bent down and closed the eyes of the fallen crewman. "May you become one with the force" Ahsoka whispered. They then headed off with their last remaining clone.

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Ryan had just finished with the gun when the banging on the doors started. "Ok everyone protect the gun" Ryan said moving in front of the console. "Rex if we get overwhelmed set off the explosives that is the number one priority" Ryan said head down. "Yes sir but we'll get you out. I made a promise to General Skywalker and I don't go back on my word" Rex said and Ryan nodded in acceptance. They then pitched in helping the other clones with a makeshift barricade.

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Barris and Ahsoka charged into the guest area weapons at the ready. But they found no droids only the alliance members all in cuffs and gaged. They walked into the room and Ahsoka felt the trap coming but it was too late. Count Dooku walked in behind them. "Very impressive younglings I must admit I didn't think you'd make it" Count Dooku said. "I should've known" Ahsoka growled. "Indeed your master sent you to die it seems perhaps he hoped you'd slow me down until he found his lightsaber. A shame because if he wanted it he would have had to come to me anyway" Dooku said pulling it from his robes. Barris suddenly charged him trying to surprise the Count. However he effortlessly deflected and parried every attack she made. "Come on your master should be ashamed" Dooku patronized. "Barris wait let us work together," Ahsoka said. The two then charged together this time and while the Count parried Barris's attack Ahsoka dodged his slash and pulled his robe and part fell to the floor. Barris then unleashed a brutal attack on him forcing him to take a few steps back Ahsoka then reached out and Anakin's lightsaber flew from the Counts robes on the ground into her hand. "Very clever" the Count growled and attacked.

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Ryan and the clones knelt ready fingers on triggers. Then the banging and grinding stopped. Ryan glanced over and saw the gun was now fully charged and hit the button to begin firing. They all herd the gun go off it was defining. Then someone started cutting the door open. "Ready boys" Rex said. When the sparks reached the bottom of the door it flew open they all fired and the blots reflected back. "Hold fire" a voice called out. "Hold fire" Ryan and Rex echoed. They waited still ready to fire when an orange light could then be seen and Lynx walked in through the Smokey door way. "Well hello boys fancy seeing you here" Lynx said with a massive grin Renna walking in behind him.

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Anakin burst into the guest quarters to find Ahsoka and Barris battling Count Dooku. "Ahh look who's finally arrived" Dooku spat. "How about you stop picking on Padawans and face someone your own size" Anakin growled. Ahsoka and Barris jumped back as Anakin jumped in for the attack. The count and Anakin battled at lightning speed so Ahsoka and Barris set about freeing the members of the alliance. Anakin then jumped back throwing Ahsoka hutch's lightsaber and then catching his in return. He then charged the count knocking him through a window and out of the building. "Trooper get these men some blasters and lets get to the rendezvous," Barris said. Just as they were finding weapons from the destroyed droids out side one of the anti-air guns began firing.

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Ryan now joined by Lynx and the rest of Ryan's team were heading for the second gun. "Captain Marnel this is First Lieutenant Ryan do you copy?" Ryan repeated over the COM link. "Lt this is Captain Marnel we've met heavy resistance from the enemy" the captain replied. "Ok help is inbound" Ryan replied. "Right Rex you take Renna and a few others and contact the republic we need a way out of here take three troopers with you" Ryan said. "Sir it might be best if I stay with you I promised general Skywalker id keep you safe" Rex replied. "Don't worry Rexy I'm here now and I can assure you no one will be keeping a closer eye on the Lieutenant than I" lynx said with a wink. Rex sighed and picked three men. Then headed off while Ryan and the others split up hoping to catch the droids off guard.

Ryan was covered in sweat and fighting with everything he had while lynx gave the group cover but it still didn't seem to be enough. No wonder the captain and struggled the droids seemed endless. Forgetting the fact they were mainly sb2 droids making them harder to kill anyway. One of the clones held up a grenade and Ryan nodded. The clone rolled it along the corridor and took most of them out lynx jumping forward and clearing up. Ryan took a deep breath and then jumped up following Lynx to find the captain. They found Marnel in the gunroom but pinned down on all sides. Lynx jumped straight in going for it Ryan and the others charged in behind him taking out any left. "Good work" Ryan said to the team. "Well I had to impress you somehow" lynx laughed Ryan shook his head but couldn't help a smile.

"Ok so Captain Marnel will stay here with the men and me, Lynx and you will go and help the others," Ryan said pointing at one of the arc-troopers. Everyone nodded and split up Captain Marvel helping her engineer retarget the gun, while the rest of her team set explosives and kept watch. Lynx lead the way clearing out most droid guards before Ryan even caught up with him. It was as if the Droids weren't even trying. The three of them came to a stop at a crossroads in the corridor. "This way" Lynx said heading straight. "Wait I think we should go this way" Ryan said moving to the left. "Ryan trust me I'm a Jedi the force is guiding me" Lynx said. "I know but my instincts are screaming at me to go this way. Perhaps the force is guiding me as well I've never been wrong in this kind of situation" Ryan argued. Lynx huffed with frustration. "Please just trust me we need to go this way," Ryan pleaded. "Fine" Lynx agreed and the three of them ran down the left hall.

As they passed a door Ryan felt a tingling at the back of his mind and stopped. "What's wrong?" Lynx asked. "There's something in here" Ryan said moving to the door. "Ryan don't, who knows what's in there it could be a trap" lynx shouted as Ryan grabbed the handle. "Well then step back," Ryan said opening the door. Once inside he found it empty other than a desk with a lightsaber on the desk. Ryan stopped something didn't feel right. So blaster at the ready he double-checked the room. He couldn't see anything so entered slowly as he reached the desk he saw something hidden underneath. He slowly moved round blaster pointed at whatever it was when he realized it was a person cuffed and gaged. Kneeling down he realized it was Dr David. "Dave" Ryan shouted pulling him up and taking off the gag. "Watch out" Dave yelled as he said the words an assassin droid dropped from over the doorway and rushed them knocking the blaster from Ryan's hand. However just as the second spike flew at Ryan Lynx jumped into the room cutting the whole thing in half. "I told you it was a trap," Lynx said with a smirk.


	8. Chapter 8 Over my dead body part three

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Meanwhile Anakin's battle with the count had taken him to the courtyard where he now had to fend off droids as well. Just as he was forced to block a blaster bolt from behind Dooku lunged at him. Anakin felt his death coming he was so sure but the blow never came. When he opened his eyes he found Ahsoka standing before him fighting the count. He then joined in the two battling as one. Then he noticed Barris and the alliance soldiers had engaged the droids. During the battle the second anti-air gun began firing. "Ahsoka get Barris and the VIPs and go to the evac area!" Anakin yelled over the battle. "But master!" Ahsoka started to argue. "I didn't ask that was an order. Now go!" Anakin insisted. Ahsoka jumped back and helped Barris clear up what was left of the droids. The two then set about getting the gates open.

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Ryan, lynx, David and arc-trooper Green had had just battled their way to the guest quarters when Rex buzzed them. "Sir the motion sensors are going off in the first gunroom" he said. "Ok confirm it's not any of ours and then blow it!" Ryan said, "Yes sir" Rex replied. A few seconds later there was a massive explosion that knocked them all off their feet. They slowly got back up and continued their search. "They're not here" David said coming out of the last room. "Damn it" Ryan yelled. Lynx stood looking out of the hole in the wall. "Look down in the courtyard I see them" he shouted. "Ok let's go" Ryan said heading for the door. But just before he reached it a bunch of commando droids burst in.

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"Commander Ahsoka this is Rex come in" Rex called over the COM link. "I read you Rex" Ahsoka replied. "Sir I've made contact with the republic they are inbound eta of 30 minutes. However I've lost contact with lieutenant Gibbs and commander Lynx" Rex explained. "Ok Rex continue with the plan get Captain Marnel and fall back I'll find them" Ahsoka said. "Will do sir good luck" Rex answered. Ahsoka then explained her plan to Barris and the two split up. One of the alliance marines named Kaidan joined Ahsoka because he flat refused to leave without Ryan.

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Ryan and the others worked together to take out the last of the commando droids. "What were those things?" David spluttered trying to catch his breath. "Commando droids. The best of the clankers" green explained. "Well let's hope there's no more of them," Ryan said between breaths. "Ok let's move we'll go through the hole it'll be quicker" lynx said jumping through. Ryan and David looked at each other but just before they jumped Ryan noticed a puddle of water on the floor. After a brief inspection he found it lead to a large cupboard kicking the door down he found Senator Orn Free tied and gagged. With help from Green and David he then cut him free. "Finally I thought you was going to leave me here as well the last group didn't even notice me. And then when those droids came I thought for sure they would kill you" the Senator exclaimed. "It's ok sir you're safe now" Ryan said looking down and noticing where the puddle had come from he grimaced then bit the bullet and helped green get the Senator out of the window on to the balcony.

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Anakin's battle with the count had raged for what felt like hours and Anakin was starting to tire. He jumped up to the second gun to catch his breath. And saw Barris leading the alliance members away to safety. However he checked and checked again but no Ahsoka. "Damn it" he growled while deflecting some force lightning. He was just about to jump down when an explosion below him knocked him flying. He hit the ground in a heap he tired to get back up but as he tried he fell back down. Unable to keep his eyes open he fell unconscious.

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Lynx, Ryan and the others had just reached the courtyard when the second gun exploded. Ryan just hoped the others had made it clear when he saw Anakin land before them. Lynx rushed forward and stood over the body lightsaber drawn. That's when Ryan saw him Count Dooku walking through the dust towards them. "Stand aside Padawan you need not die for this fool" Dooku barked. "I wont let you kill him!" Lynx shouted but at the moment more droids arrived out of what was left of the east part of the fortress. Ryan signaled the other two who helped him engage them keeping them as far from lynx as possible while the senator took cover. Ryan fought hard but tried to keep an eye on lynx trying to find away to help him. When he looked up after throwing a grenade he saw Dooku throw lynx aside. Just as Dooku was about to deliver the final blow to Anakin, Ryan gave everything he had and willed Dooku away from Anakin. With an enormous yell he put out his hand and sent a shock wave forward knocking the count into the far wall. He then ran to Anakin's side and checked he was still alive.

"So it seems I was right about you. It seems you do poses a great deal of strength and power in the force" Dooku said moving forward. "Stay back" Ryan shouted raising his blaster. "You have more than proven yourself worthy of my training. Now kill the Jedi or move aside," Dooku said. "I wont let you hurt him," Ryan said as firmly as he could. "Don't be a fool the Jedi needs to die you have such promise now move aside" Dooku said and unleashed a round of force lightning that hit Ryan in the chest. He screamed out in pain and fell to his knees. However after a pause Ryan slowly rose back up. Again Dooku shocked Ryan causing him the yell out. "Ryan!" Dave yelled running towards Ryan but Dooku just swept him across the courtyard. However just as before Ryan rose to his feet, Dooku only grunted and shot the lightning again this time from both hands. Ryan yelled falling to his knees again however this time the attack only made him feel stronger and more aware. He then slowly struggled to reach behind him pulled out the lightsaber he had found using it to absorb the lightning. Dooku kept up the attack while Ryan rose to his feet. "over my dead body!" Ryan grunted. "So be it you have earned a quick death" Dooku said moving forward.

Ryan racked his brain trying to remember everything Nomi Sunrider knew about lightsaber combat. He was able the block the first few strikes. But he soon lost his footing and Dooku knocked the lightsaber from his grip. Ryan then stood tall ready for the blow to come. However instead he flew sideways he looked up and saw Ahsoka had pushed him to the side. She was now battling Dooku with both lightsabers. Kadian ran over to him "Ryan are you ok? I was so worried" he said checking Ryan over. "I'm fine. Dave fell over there, go and check on him then him and the Senator out of here!" Ryan said jumping up. "Not without you" Kaidan said pulling Ryan back. "Kadian I promise ill be ok but right now I need you to get Dave and the senator out of here " Ryan said firmly looking Kaidan in the eye. "Ok" Kaidan nodded and ran over to Dave. Gabbing the Senator on the way the two of them then took an arm each and carried David out the gate while Ryan covered them.

Ryan then ran back to the other side of the courtyard where arc-trooper Green was pinned down by droids. Flanking from the side he took out four or five taking the pressure off of Green. The two then worked to take out the remaining droids. "Good work now you check on Lynx ill help Ahsoka" Ryan said as he ran off. The count was too much for Ahsoka she could barely keep up with his assault. However suddenly the count stepped back and started deflecting blaster bolts. Ahsoka looked round and saw Ryan blasting away at the count.

The count turned reflecting blasts back at Ryan who fell into cover but kept up the fire. At that moment Lynx jumped back into the battle helping Ahsoka. The count leapt back suddenly just as Barris landed lightsaber first. "Its over count!" Ahsoka said with confidence. "Over? The three of you truly think you stand a chance against a Sith Lord?" The count roared. "Make that five" Ryan said as he and Green moved in next to the Jedi. "Ha! This wont even be a challenge," the count snarled. But as he raised he saber they all noticed republican gun ships heading down towards them. "Until we meet again" he spat and leapt four or five stories into the air landing on a platform on the building. Lynx went to go after him but Barris held out her arm. "Let him go" she said and Lynx stayed still.

The first gun ship landed and out stepped masters mace Windu and Obi-wan along with a group of clones. "Well well well what do we have here" Obi-wan said with a smile. "It looks like we have three Padawans a clone and a soldier who just fended off the famous Count Dooku. Along with an army of droids" Windu said raising an eyebrow. "We had some help," Ryan said. The two Jedi masters looked at each other and Obi-wan laughed. "So it seems," he said as some clones stretchered Anakin back onto the gunship.


	9. Chapter 9 Welcome to Coruscant

Hi guys welcome to Coruscant J hope you enjoy please let me know what you think. Will try to post again as soon as possible but not too sure when I'll next haxe access to a laptop or computer so we shall see.

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Ryan stood in his room on mace Windu's flagship. The last few hours had been a whirlwind he hadn't even had a chance to shower or change. First he had been checked over by hoards of medical staff then he reported to Admiral Anderson and Ambassador Udina. Followed by a full debriefing to the Alliance Command via a Holoconference. Now he had a few minutes before the Jedi wanted to speak to him. This was going to be a long meeting and all he wanted was a nap.

He was trying his best to clean the dirt, mud, grit and smoke ash off when there was a knock at the door. "One second" Ryan called pulling off his stained top to change it. However once he got his t-shirt over his head he found lynx standing in the doorway smirking at him his baby blue eyes sparkling. "Sorry lynx give me a minute I'll be ready," Ryan said trying to brush off his surprise. "Its alright, I'm quite happy to enjoy the show" lynx smiled and stretched causing the muscles in his arms to ripple. Ryan laughed nervously and blushed a little but couldn't help a small smile. After pulling on a vest and shirt he checked himself in the mirror. "I think you should've gone for the topless look" lynx grinned playing with his own dark blonde hair. "Ha maybe, it would've made it a meeting no one will soon forget" Ryan laughed and then the two of them headed out lynx taking the lead.

The meeting had gone on for hours and the end didn't seem to be in sight. Ryan had been through his entire report not missing a detail but still the council scrutinized. Then finally Master Windu spoke up. "Tell us more of how you saved young Skywalker," he said. "It wasn't planed I simply knew if I didn't do something the general would have been killed. So I let my instincts take over and my memories of Sunrider's training showed me the rest," Ryan explained. "Count Dooku is a extremely powerful force user I cant quite believe that you were able to overcome him in such a way" master Plo-Koon said puzzled. "Well. I didn't really. Well I didn't overpower him anyway. He was distracted with Anakin if I hadn't acted when I did Anakin would be dead it was all I could do" Ryan pointed out. "Hmmm fortunate Skywalker is that you were there. But concerned I am by Dooku's interest in you" Yoda pointed out.

After questioning Ryan for a little bit longer the council dismissed him to talk in private. "Well this is most certainly an unexpected outcome" Windu said crossing his arms. "In deed however I did tell you I felt he was special" obi wan reminded them. "Yes so it seems but to be able to force push to such an extreme with no training, and a master in the force no less that seems.. a little odd" Master Seasse Tiin questioned. "The force works in strange ways. Bring him to Coruscant you must. Meditate with the boy I will, understand him better we shall" Yoda said. "Of course Master" obi wan agreed. "But what about the Brightstar? There is no way that the ship was brought down without some inside help and even then how did the bounty hunters get aboard to start with," he pointed out. "Question the remaining crew one by one you shall. Only then will we gain a better understanding of what truly happened?" Yoda said. "Yes master may the force be with you" obi-wan and Windu said and the others chanted the saying back before ending the holocall.

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Ahsoka, Ryan, Kaidan, David and engineer Renna were gathered round a workbench in engineering. Ahsoka and Renna were showing the alliance members some of their basic technology. "It's incredible" Dave said stunned the last week or so had been mind blowing for him. Ryan looked at him and smiled he was glad to see he was over the shock of yesterday. Ahsoka showing them the basics of republican technology had so far taken up most of their day.

Just as David was allowed the chance to study the droid repair system master obi-wan entered the room. "Master" Ahsoka said bowing slightly and the rest bowed their heads a little. "I just wanted to inform you that we will be leaving hyperspace shortly and should be on Courscant within the next few hours" obi wan explained. David's face looked torn in half, upset for not getting to explore this new technology and overjoyed at getting to see the home planet of a whole senate of alien systems. However he soon joined the others in bidding the Jedi and engineers goodbye and hurried off.

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"This is one of the most important moments in both the Alliance and Earth's history. This very moment can make or break our future. So I ask all of you to represent the Alliance in the best way possible and do all you can to help us prosper from this opportunity" Prime Minister Shastri explained to the alliance delegation via a communicator. Minister Kova the alliance foreign minister then came up on the communicator. "The alliance parliament has also voted and we have agreed to give both Ambassador Udina and Admiral Anderson special powers. Meaning if the two are in agreement they have the full authority the alliance to take action or agree to any treaty conditions proposed. However they must be in agreement for their new authority to stand and it would take a full vote of parliament to repeal their discussions so take care gentlemen" she then smiled and stepped aside and was replaced by the prime minister. "Ladies and gentlemen I wish you the best of luck. Please do us proud" he smiled and ended the call.

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Time then flew by with everyone hurrying to prepare. The alliance delegation eventually met with the Jedi, diplomats and republic officers on the flight deck. The ship got as close to the planet as it could and then the whole group boarded a smaller ship and set off. Ryan looked out the window and lost his breath the space around the planet was swarming thousands of ships coming and going. Massive ships bigger then even the Brightstar circled round obviously there for protection. Cargo ships bringing and taking goods, it was amazing.

The ship landed moments later and they all walked down the ramps where they were met by cheering crowds. Along with thousands and thousands of troops. Walkers, tanks and all sorts of artillery lined the walk way with the clones in perfect formation. There were citizens there as well but they were kept back behind a single line of clones. The alliance delegation followed the others towards a group at the end of the carpets. As they walked the marines and diplomats looked round stunned. Even Ryan was a little taken back this was not how Nomi Sunrider remembered Courscant. "Impressive" Anderson whispered to Ryan. "A clear show of force" Ryan whispered back. The admiral just nodded back and before long they had reached the group waiting for them.

An old human from the looks of things in his late 60s or so walked towards them with a beaming smile and open arms. "Representatives of the Alliance, it us with great honor that I welcome you to Courscant and the Republic!" He said the crowds around erupted with cheers. When they calmed down he spoke again. "I am Sheev Plapatine supreme chancellor of the republic senate. On behalf of the republic and its citizens I hereby invite you to join us in peace talks between our great peoples. Udina and Anderson moved forward. "Chancellor we thank you for this gracious welcome and I am Minister Udina however our government has elected me as their first representative and Ambassador to your people. So I happily accept you invitation and hope these walks will not only lead to peace between us but leave as firm allies" Udina said. The chancellor's smile widened and he shock Udina's hand. The crowds again cheered just as Ryan caught Hutch's eye and smiled. Hutch looked a mess battered and bruised one of his green eyes completely shut from swelling. However Ryan couldn't help but think his disheveled hair suited him much better and the bruises just made him want to protect the handsome Jedi. Before his mind had the chance to wander however he heard his name called and moved forward focusing on the job at hand.

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After hours of introductions and tours they were finally sat down for dinner Ryan and Kadian were the two chosen to act as bodyguards for the meal. So there Ryan stood bored of the small talk, just behind Anderson looking dead a head. "I hear we have one of your men to thank for the safe return of so many Admiral," the chancellor said waking Ryan up a little. "Yes First Lieutenant Ryan here is one of our best he has a bright future ahead of him" Anderson said smiling up at Ryan. "Indeed" the chancellor said looking Ryan over which sent shivers down Ryan's spine. "Yes he was quite the hero most, if not all the men who made it out alive owe Ryan their lives" obi-wan spoke up. "In deed I heard you went face to face with count Dooku and obviously lived to tell the tale" Senator Organa pointed out. "Yes sir I simply done what I had to, which is any marines duty" Ryan said meeting his eye and Organa smiled. "To go against Dooku alone and survive is impressive by itself but to achieve you mission at the same time is remarkable. I believe you are right Admiral this one will have a very promising future a head of him" the chancellor said looking at master Yoda and Windu then back to Ryan.

The subject of convocation soon changed to trade and technology and Ryan was all but forgotten. However Ryan could feel both the Jedi and every now and then the chancellor watching him. After dinner was finished Ryan and Kaidan were replaced by four new marines and sent to retire. But just as they were leaving Master Yoda approached him. "I have made a request of Admiral Anderson, attend a meeting with the council tomorrow you will. Pick you up from your quarters we will" Yoda said, bowed and walked away. Ryan and Kaidan looked at each other and then followed a droid away. "What's that about?" Kaidan asked. "I'm pretty sure I can work it out and if I'm right it will only be the first of many meetings," Ryan said. Kaidan looked a little concerned but followed after Ryan all the same.

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Once they were back at their accommodation Ryan relaxed. It was in a humongous building hundreds of levels high. The building inside and out screamed expensive and wealth. Ryan and Kadian were shown to the levels that would house the Alliance until something more permanent could be sorted. Together they entered the common area, where they found most of the other marines and officers Relaxing.

However after a quick chat with David, Ryan got up and excused himself. Kaidan noticed and followed suit, catching Ryan in the hall. "Ryan are you alright?" He asked concern in his voice. "Yeah I guess so, it all just feels a little to much for me" Ryan confessed heading out to one of the balconies. "How do you mean?" Kaidan said placing a hand on Ryan's shoulder as he looked over the never-ending city. Ryan tensed a little at the connection but soon relaxed and let out a sigh. "Well I guess I just feel a little over whelmed by this all. A week ago I was just an officer in the alliance bringing down pirates and slavers. Now I'm an alliance representative in an entire universe of aliens and god knows what. Not to mention all this with the Jedi and my messed up version of force use. I kind of wish I had never touched the holocron on the mass relay and had just left it for the Jedi when they arrived" Ryan said turning to look at Kaidan who met Ryan's eyes with an understanding look.

"It cant be easy" Kaidan agreed with Ryan. "However you were never 'just an officer' you've always been much more than that. So I know if there's anyone of us that is capable of wrapping his or her head around this it's you. These Jedi seem like they can help. I also know you wont let them walk all over you so they seem to be the best option. At least until you figure a few things out" Kaidan smiled with his eyes and Ryan's face lightened as he sat back on the balcony barrier. "Thank you kaidan, I don't know where I'd be without you. But I think your right I trust the Jedi from everything Nomi Sunrider knew they will help and she should know she used to lead them" Ryan smiled with determination back in his eyes. Kaidan beamed glad to see his friend not give up. The two then bid each other goodnight and went to bed.


End file.
