============================================================

***HR. Central City.***

“The West family had always been a family of pure values, and a type of warmth rarely found in the world.” Henry Allen spoke clearly as he stood next to the two caskets holding Iris West-Allen, and Joe West.

“I remember when I was falsely convicted for the murder of my wife that Joe welcomed my son into his home, and into his family without question. Because of that my son grew up in a loving home that we all wish we could have.” Henry continued as he tried to keep a straight face as he looked over the crowd that had come to the funeral.

“When Barry asked Iris to marry him, I remember holding onto Joe. It was an odd moment of pride, and worry. Because Joe looked so happy, but he also so badly wanted to shoot Barry too.” Henry cracked a bit and tear rolled down his cheek. The crowd, and extended family laughed a bit.

“I... ahh...” Henry cleared his throat as he tried to keep his tears from running down his face. Several people in the crowd nodded in acceptance and Henry let the tears fall.

“I remember Joe sat Barry down the night before the wedding gave him the typical future father-in-law talk. I had never seen my boy so terrified before in his life.” Henry continued as he tried so hard to keep some resemblance of a smile on his face.

“But just as Joe was never a typical father. The 'talk' wasn't typical either. He gave Barry the list, the warning every man should hear before he marries. Your wife is always right, even if you are wrong.” Henry said, and the crowd busted up laughing. While a few others sobbed a little harder.

“Little things matter, because eventually they add up to big things. You always have time to give your wife a foot massage. Always, always ask them how their day was first.” Henry smiled as he looked across the crowd. But he didn't see his son, Barry, among the crowd.

“Find time to date, even as your lives get busy. Always schedule at the very least a single day a month for a date. Keep the romance alive.” Henry continued....

“Then as any good father would say. He told Barry that if he hurt Iris... Not to worry about him, because Iris would break her foot up in his ass.” Henry finished and the crowd busted up laughing.

Henry looked like he wanted to say more, and looked towards to the two coffins that contained Joe, and Iris. He opened, and closed his mouth several times. But eventually he stepped to the side. A few more people came up to speak but eventually they ran out of people. Joe being a policemen had a firing squad shoot out. While a flag was given to Joe's mother. All the while the crowd looked around for Barry. Only a few saw him standing up on the hill of the cemetery away from the crowd as he tried so desperately not to wail in despair.

_______________

Barry Allen aka The Flash sat on the hill side bench of the cemetery as he watched as one by one the crowd left. He trembled as tears fell down his face. His father, Henry slowly walked up the hill towards him and took a seat next to him. Barry cracked under the pressure as Henry pulled him into his arms and Barry sobbed into his father's arms. Henry rubbed his son's back, but didn't say a word. When all of the civilians had left. One by one the Justice League showed up. Then...Then Barry stood up and walked down.

Caitlin Snow, Cisco Ramon, Harrison Wells, and Monika Celeritas for Team Flash came in uniform. While Oliver Queen, and Sara Lance came to say hello but soon had to leave. A few other friends quickly said sorry and had to leave. The world was at war and they needed to get back to their own cities. Barry thank them for coming, but said little else.

Barry was hollow as his families coffins were buried. He stood in silent vigil as one by one his friends, his brothers and sisters in arms came and went. Until it was just his dad and him once more. They stood side by side. It wasn't the first time either of them had buried a loved one. Barry had lost his mother when he was young, and lost his father to a crime he didn't commit. But, this was different. Barry something to put his sorrow into. His rage...

“You should go dad.” Barry said softly.

“I'm good son...” Henry replied.

“Aren't you working with the medical unit?” Barry asked, his voice hollow.

“I can spend a few more minutes.” Henry said, as he watched his son.

“I'm going to fix it...” Barry said next, as speed force sparks danced up across his body. Henry cleaned his eyes and laughed lightly.

“What do you mean, Barry?” Henry asked, as he really looked at his son and saw the sparks of the speed force vibrating off of him.

“I can fix it... I'll go back and save them. Then none of this will happen.” Barry said with conviction.

“Barry... That isn't how time works. Dr. Wells was very clear about it. You don't actually travel through time you just jump to an alternate time line.” Henry said, as he tried to get his son to turn to him.

“Then it will still work! I'll grab them there, and bring them back here! No one has to die!” Barry shouted at him, his eyes began to spark with energy.

“Barry this is not the way!” Henry tried to hug his son but Barry pulled from his grasp and zipped dozens of feet away in a blink of an eye.

“You'll see... Once their back... You'll see...” Barry said with smile. Then with a blur of motion was in his uniform. “I'll be back before you know it!”

“Barry stop!” Henry shouted at him but it was too late. He activated his holographic.

“Vici! We have a problem...” Henry said.

==============================================================

***Rift. Ryloth***

Cham Syndulla, nicknamed The Hammer of Ryloth. Was a Twi'lek male with orange skin, orange eyes, and an athletic albeit malnourished figure. Who stood at approximately 6'3', clad in his scrapyard militia garb. Despite his poor upbringing, Cham had always strode for greatness in his youth. He worked hard in everything he did. Learned quick that life will never give you an easy way out, and if it does it is often a trick. But despite that he never lost his heart, and tried to do good when ever he got a chance.

It was because of these qualities that he quickly sought to free Ryloth from the corruption of Orn Free Taa, and the oppressive oversight of the Republic. He had learned quick that Republic ideals, and convictions were built out of sand. Ryloth had been a part of the Republic for over 10,000 standard cycles. To this day it was still a backwater world that received minimal domestic aid. There had even been a moment when Cham had considered joining the CIS. But he quickly learned they were just as brutal if not more so than the Republic.

The Republic slowly choked the life of Ryloth with neglect. While the Confederacy sought to garrote us in our sleep. Then from moment of wailing defeat as we flailed like tired old men, and women. Came the Republic with their clones, and their Jedi. Or... So he had believed. Jensaarai, how were they any different from the Jedi? For one, they brought gifts.

“By popular vote, and quick time succession. Cham Syndulla you have been selected to be the leader of Ryloth.” The armored Jensaarai said to him.

“What?” Cham said momentarily frozen in disbelief. “That's not possible... I-I there...When did we vote? We've been under attack.” Cham said almost furious that the Republic would care about such things during an invasion.

“Sub-section D page 356, paragraph 4, of the reclamation of assets. Articulates that during a war time clear line of succession is necessary to prevent a convoluted miss understandings. At the last requisition of senator election. It was Orn Free Taa at 87% of total vote, and 13% Cham Syndulla. No one else ran. You continued to claim your legitimacy. No one else stepped in. With the death of Orn Free Taa, and the fact that you are on the ground. You win by default.” The armored man said.

“I'm the senator of Ryloth?” Cham said as it started to set in. His people next to him started to gather smiles on their faces.

“For now, until such a time is available for a clear election to be granted on Ryloth with being under duress. At which point you, and any other member of the Ryloth elective council may run for senator. Do you accept this role.” The man asked, Cham blinked and nodded with confirmation.

“I, Cham Syndulla accept this position.” Cham replied.

“Wonderful! Senator Syndulla the Republic Militia, and Grand Army of the Republic is securing the city. We need to get you to the forward operations camp. Please this way.” The armored man said.

Cham was quick to clear his mind as he organized his remaining team for evacuation. The armored man known as Grand Admiral, and Jensaarai Master Lash created an update map of the battlefield and they moved with purpose through the city like clock work. They arrived at operations, and the medical center in good time.

Cham saw the Republics clones, but he also saw men, and women of the different species in militia uniform. Dispensing aid, and fighting against the droids. Along with dozens of armored soldiers wielding the jedi weapons, Light-Sabers. But these were not Jedi. Watching as Master Lash rushed towards a spider walker and destroyed its shields like a child squashing a bug was...humbling.

Cham, and his people could help but remark how the Jensaarai were despite their fierce appearance were friendly. The Jedi had always had a quiet arrogance. They never truly looked down on others. But they felt like they did. Cham hated it when ever Jedi arrived on Ryloth. Because more often than not they came at the behest of Taa, and put down the rebellions on Ryloth. Cham feared Master Lash was here to do the same. Time would tell. How long until Cham was fighting the Republic and its Militia? They needed to be ready.

==============================================================

(Ryloth, Kala'uun Spaceport.)

Lash listened to Omen's report about the situation. They had been here less then an hour and the droid army had pulled back. Normally this would be a call for a celebration. But Omen believed it was a trick. Lash agreed with him. According to Senator Syndulla they had spent days fighting over every inch of that city. They would not give it up lightly.

“We'll send out scouts, and skirmish attacks but our priority is securing the city. Senator may we ask your scouts to help fill in for guides among our soldiers?” Lash turned to look at Sydulla who looked over the map.

“It would be better if I lead the scouts myself.” Syndulla said, while Commander Omen looked confused.

“Senator, apologies but I'm afraid that is ill advised.” Lash said he tried to adjust his body language to be...amiable.

“Why is that?” Syndulla said, he stuck his chin forward in challenge.

“Because you are the leader of Ryloth. I respect your desire to lead from the front. But if something happens to you. Then who will the people look to?” Lash asked, as he glanced behind Syndulla to his people who seem to understand the problem. Even if Syndulla didn't.

“I will never ask my people to do anything that I myself would be afraid to do.” Syndulla said with a bit of flare. His people smiled at him, and Lash bit back a sigh.

“Then I suppose we won't need your scouts after all.” Commander Omen said with a bit finality. Syndulla blinked in surprise as he suddenly sidelined.

“I am not some fragile piece of glass to be protected!” Syndulla shouted at him. As his soldiers stood and started to reach for their blasters.

“We are not suggesting that! But you have to look at it from our point of view. If you rush off into combat we have to prioritize your safety first. Even at the cost of our own lives.” Lash said to the man, as he tried to quell his desire to manipulate the idiots mind.

“Then I will take a team and scout out the area! If you try and stop us, we'll fight you too!” Syndulla shouted at Lash.

Lash stopped and just stared at the man. His Deductive Reasoning, and Insight giving a peak at the man's mind. Syndulla for some idiotic reason believed that they were trying to separate him from his people so we could imprison him. A puppet leader of some sort. If Lash wanted to do that he would have just executed Syndulla's soldiers and detained him.

“Very well... Good luck.” Lash said, as he reached out and cast Calm Emotions on the sly. Everyone took a breath, but the decision was made. Syndulla walked out of the tent in victory, as his men clapped him on the back. While others glared acidly at Lash, and Omen.

“I hate politics.” Omen said softly.

“The Republic doesn't have a good reputation on this world.” Lash replied.

“Oh really? Just figure that out, Grand Admiral?” Omen said, Lash turned to look at him but their was a bit of a smile tugging on Omen's lips. Sarcasm?

“I'm going to go flatten an area for the Acclamator. Can you please contact Admiral Ronti Jedree. Tell him to prepare to move the ship?” Lash asked, with a slight shrug of his shoulders.

“Yes, Grand Admiral Lash. Can you give the ship a wash while your at it?” Omen asked, now a clear smile on his face.

“I don't know... Sounds like a lot of work. How about I just break out the bar, and we'll have happy hour instead?” Lash said as started to leave operations.

“Sound's like a plan, Grand Admiral.” Omen said with a laugh.

Omen's change in attitude was a welcome surprise to Lash. Very few clones died in this attack. Which showed Omen that Lash was no fool. At least for now. Lash had plenty of time to screw up later, but if he could help it he wouldn't. He sent Mil'Gix with Syndulla who welcomed her. The Mandalorian clan Rahl was welcome with Syndulla's people. While Vi'Lon stayed with the Kom'rk ship to do a perimeter sweep that gradually got larger, and larger.

Lash dropped by and checked on Padawan Barriss, and Padawan Ahsoka. Ahsoka was a little shaken but was taking to her job as triage rather well. Thanks to Shatter Point, Ahsoka was able to quickly determine who was lost, and who was not. While Barriss spent her time giving minimal healing. Bringing the fatality wounded to just above that. So she could conserve her energy. Lash granted them both a refill of magical energy. Which their midi-chlorians ate up greedily. Which in turned granted them more energy. If Lash wasn't careful they would both reach 15,000/Jedi Master rank before they even left Ryloth.

Lash left operations and moved towards the open hills, and grass. He reached out with Elemental Manipulation – Earth. Then started to flatten the ground in front of him. The Acclamator was a little over 2,500 feet long. The abrupt change of landscape did seem to disturb the local wild life as several sleeping Lylek insect creatures the size of city buses came popping out of the ground. Just in time for the landing Accalamator to shoot them full of turbo lasers.

Lash cast Decomposition on the bodies, and oddly he received the designs for the creatures in his Divine Domain – Monster Creation spell. That was new. Lash cleared it from his mind for now and reformed the landing pad so the ship could land. Then he moved to create several auxiliary landing pads for the militia ships. One by one they were able to land just outside the city. Once the last ship left the calcified forest. Lash released the delayed spell and the forest returned to normal.

Despite the cleared landing field the arrival of the different ships kicked up a lot of sand into the air. But all in all it was nothing compared to the fierce windstorms that the planet would have. According to the weather report they had little less then a week before the next windstorm would hit. In that time they would have to tell their ships to go back into orbit. Or Lash could cheat and carve out a huge underground city. Decisions, decisions.

The Lylek had been a surprise. He had assumed they wouldn't be this close to the city. But as he reached out through his Divine spell craft he discovered that the Lylek in questions were hunters. They would grab Twi'lek, or anything really within reach and sprint back to the hive. Which meant there was one nearby. Then he facepalmed and realized he could just ask the planet itself for directions. Despite not having a background, Lash still felt like this universe was effecting him.

He turned around on his heel and went back to operations to check in. He would the ritual later. For now he would help Ahsoka, and Barriss with the medical center. He sent a warning to the Clones, and the Militia about the Lylek hive, and the hunters on the perimeter. A sensor net was moved to the top of the list for base installations. Apparently the Twi'lek knew about the hunters, but simply accepted them as a part of life. They never had the resources to burn them out.

Clearing the landing field at taken little over an hour but when he came into the hospital he found Barriss struggling to stand on her feet. She was covered in blood, and viscera and was a fair bit more green then what would be healthy for a Mirialan. Ahsoka was next to her as the leaned on each other for support. Without a word Lash pulled them out of the hospital and sat them down.

“Sergeant, please arrange transport for the Padawan's back to the ship.” Lash called for a transport and the clone jumped to obey. Ahsoka hearing the order looked up at him in confusion.

“Master Lash were fine, we can keep going.” Ahsoka said, but Barriss hadn't even registered that Lash had spoken.

“And if we were in the thick of battle I would expect nothing less. But we are in a brief period of calm. Both of you will go back to the ship, you will eat, you will bath, and you will sleep. I don't want to see either of you out here for at least ten hours. I will confine you to quarters if I have to.” Lash said to her, and Ahsoka looked like she wanted to fight but accepted it nonetheless.

Lash had to pick Barriss up and put her into the transport that arrived. The Clone medic who saw her understood the situation. She was in battle shock and assured Lash she'd be taken care of. Ahsoka gave Lash a hug then jumped into the transport and they took off towards the ship. Fighting droids is one thing. Tending to the wounded as they screamed for help, and died in your arms was another. Barriss, and Ahsoka did a lot of good. But in the end they were both still younglings.

Lash returned to the makeshift hospital and cast a wide area of effect. Sooth, Nature's Supplement, and Nature's Kiss. Bright green, and blue light swallowed the whole hospital. His magical energy took a nose dive, but as always refilled quickly. Every individual in the hospital was nearly fully healed. Healed enough to get out of the hospital anyway. He also 'accidentally' made a few Twi'lek, Clones, and Militia soldiers obtain a slight Force-awareness. (5k / Just barely)

“Any more wounded go straight towards the ship!” Lash ordered the soldiers and they followed his command.

Not for the first time Lash considered going to Coruscant and bathing the whole planet in magical energy. Just to see what would happen if trillions of people suddenly became Force-Sensitive. What would the Star Wars Galaxy be like if every Sapient species in the galaxy was capable of wielding the Force? Would it dry out? Become stronger? Food for thought for later. In the end Lash wasn't really here to save anyone. He was here to obtain tech to help his home reality. Maybe he was becoming jaded?

“Alright, let's go build a city.” Lash said, as he clapped his hands together.

============================================================

(Lessu, Capital City of Ryloth)

Wat Tambor was a male Skakoan who was the foreman of the Techno Union and an executive of Baktoid Armor Workshop. The Skakoanian people came in several colors like blue, green, and purple. They had grown on a alternate atmospheric condition world and required pressure suits to survive off of it. Due to their culture and firm belief in mathematics it was believed they were actually machines.

The cold hard logic of the Skakoanian people gave them an advantage when it came to creating corporations, and leading the charge in research and development. Especially when they cared little for the concept of morality. In this regard, Wat Tambor was a model citizen of. Tambor had dark green skin, beady black eyes, and wore a pressure suit with a blue under cloth. The suit exposed his head, and neck save for the front portion of his face. Where a silver metallic mask protected his body.

Tambor was also one thing above all. He was a petty, conniving, greedy man. Due to his poor home life when growing up. He adored money, and would do anything to obtain more of it. He loved living in luxury, and despised any notion of giving up his wealth. When a political rival among the Confederacy had been found stashing hidden treasures of Ryloth. Tambor moved to lay siege to the planet and was granted permission by Count Dooku.

Now, Tambor brought an entire planet to its knees. Just so he could increase the treasures to hold in his vault. With great anticipation Tambor watched as droids loaded another shipment of artifacts, precious jewels, and metals aboard his shuttle. Once it was full he launched it, using a familiar solar sail that the CIS was known for. Allowing the ship to pass through the lines unnoticed. According to his data he another two shuttles to fill before he could leave the planet. But the Republic had shown up in force, and now he had to decide to stay and finish loading his treasure or leave?

“Wat Tambor, we have an incoming message from Count Dooku.” A tactical droid arrived, holding a holographic projector. Tambor smoothed out his suit, and prepared himself.

The tactical droid activated the holographic and a very young looking Count Dooku looked at Tambor. The Skakoanian had been surprised when he had first seen a youthful Count. But after many discussions with Lord Enfarious he found out why. A form of gene therapy that would extend life had been a exciting prospect. However, the treatment was expensive. One of the many things he planned to buy once he left Ryloth.

“Wat Tambor, I received word that the blockade around Ryloth has been broken?” Count Dooku said with mild concern written on his face.

“I'm afraid so, Count Dooku. We have reports that General Obi-Wan Kenobi, General Skywalker, and Grand Admiral Lash are on the surface of the planet. I've already increased our security to not allow any holographic communication from the Jensaarai. I assure you, I will not fall for the same trick that Mar Tuuk did.” Tambor said self assuredly.

“See that you don't. Once you have finished your...business on Ryloth and want you to leave immediately. Then order your droids to cause as much damage to the surrounding cities as possible. We can still turn the loss of Ryloth into a political victory.” Dooku said, as he smoothed a hand across his trimmed beard.

“My Lord, is the Confederacy not sending reinforcements? Were we not suppose to attack from behind?” Tambor asked in confusion.

“Orders have changed, the fleet will not be arriving. You have two days before General Windu arrives to reinforce the Republic.” Dooku replied, his irritation clear. Though not towards Tambor but elsewhere.

“Very well.” Tambor said in mild depression. Two days was not long enough to secure all the treasure he wanted. He would have to make every minute count.

“See that you are not late, Tambor. I'd hate to loose you like we lost Mar Tuuk. Goodbye.” Dooku said, and the holographic closed.

“How long until the next shipment arrives?” Tambor asked the tactical droid.

“Thirteen standard hours, but I advise we be gone before then.” The Droid responded.

“I will not leave until everything of value is taken from this rock. What we need is a distraction. Prepare a wing of bombers. We'll give the Republic something to chase.” Tambor ordered, and the tactical droid left to carry out his orders.

==============================================================

(Ryloth, Command AT-TE)

The All Terrain Tactical Enforcer walker rumbled along. While the other walkers had room to carry troops, and an artillery cannon on its back. This walker had communication dishes, and receivers across its body. Its main troop bay was converted into an operations room with view screens, terminals, and a holographic projector. Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenbo, and Luminara Unduli stood side by side as they watched the holographic produce Master Yoda, Master Windu, and Supreme Chancellor Palpatine.

“As far as we can tell the Separatist fleet has moved into Hutt space and is no where to be found. We'll be arriving on Ryloth in less than forty eight hours.” Master Windu said to them.

“With that many ships we can create a blockade and prevent Tambor from escaping the planet.” Anakin said with a smile.

“Don't be so sure, Master Skywalker. We've had reports of solar sailor shuttles leaving the planet. What assurance do we have that Tambor hasn't left yet?” Unduli asked.

“Greed, Tambor wont leave until everything of value has been stolen. He'll be on the last shuttle I guarantee it.” Obi-Wan replied, as he looked at global map of Ryloth.

“His capture is vital to the war effort. With him in custody we can prove that the Techno Union has joined the CIS. We can seize their corporate head quarters here on Coruscant.” Palpatine said, as he steepled his fingers.

“This war that much quicker another leader of the Separatist in our custody will help end.” Master Yoda confirmed.

“Any word from Master Lash?” Anakin asked the room.

“Master Lash has secured the spaceport of Kala'uun. Regretfully they came under attack by Lyleks. They are... Fighting off a hive.” Unduli replied with a look of worry on her face. “My Padawan Barriss sent me a message personally.”

“I can't imagine Lash being that careless?” Obi-Wan asked.

“From the message, the droids had destroyed the main birthing chamber of the Queen. Which forced the entire hive into a frenzy. They are attacking anything, and everything with a few hundred miles of the hive. Including the city.” Unduli commented.

“Do they need help?” Anakin asked, ready to leave right away.

“...No... Barriss said they were... Having fun.” Unduli said, with a peculiar expression.

“Having fun?” Anakin asked in confusion.

“...Oh, why do I feel like Master Lash has found another way to show off?” Obi-Wan said with a bemused expression on his face.

“I wouldn't worry, for help if they are in need master Lash will call.” Master Yoda said.

“Right, well let's not get left behind. I'd hate for it to get boring around here.” Anakin said with a smile as they continued the briefing.

===============================================================

(Ryloth, Kala'uun underground.)

“FORWARD!” Lash shouted out over the communication line, and across the Temporary Pack Bond.

A unit of flame throwers moved into position and sprayed napalm across the cavern as giant Lylek soldiers, warriors, and stalkers rushed towards them in a mad dash of what could only be called a zerg rush. Lash led a wave of Jensaarai into the flames with little fear as they ignited their light-sabers and cut through the creatures with disgusting ease. Then new tunnel emerged from the wall and a flood of Lylek's swarmed into their choke point.

“Sappers!” Lash called out.

Padawan Ahsoka, Padawan Barriss, and another Jedi Knight raced forward and threw seismic charges at the tunnel. The Force guiding their throws. With Force-Sprint they were in and out in a moment. Then the bombs went off closing the hole. A Jensaarai rushed up and converted the rock into lava through Elemental Manipulation / Force-Alteration.

“Forward!” Lash shouted again, the Clone, Militia, and Twi'lek fighters moved forward by approximately ten steps then held their new position. Phalanx guard in front ready and waiting.

“Ready!” Commander Omen called over the communication line.

“Defenders! Back!” Lash shouted, and the Jensaarai defenders jumped back behind the lines. As a barrage of blaster fire poured onto the Lylek.

Lash used Call Lightning as several other Jensaarai defenders used Force-Lightning to flash burn the Lylek. Mobile turbo lasers rolled forward and obliterated the Lylek's rushing out. A high pitched screeched shot through out the tunnel systems. But a pre-battle alteration to their helmets protected them from the Queen's Force-Scream. Wasn't that a surprise, the Queen had dark side powers.

“Grand Admiral, team Charlie needs assistance!” Commander Omen called across the line.

“Hold the line! Padawans, with me!” Lash called out.

Ahsoka, and Barrissa raced after Lash has he cast Acceleration on them. They sprinted through the underground tunnels that they had earned inch by bloody inch. Well that wasn't true, they actually hadn't lost a single soldier the entire time. It may have been due to the fact that each team had several Jensaarai defender-->>

next page