LEGACY OF DEFIANCE: A Star Wars Story

Brother vs. Brother

"Commander Jax, a word please." Vader's mask looked at him, "Do not hold mercy. Commander Appo has fell under performance. Ahsoka Tano is not on Felucia. Your mission is to eliminate Appo."

Jax felt a chill run down his spine as Lord Vader spoke. The weight of the Sith Lord's command was immense, and he knew that he could not afford to hesitate or show any signs of weakness.

"As you wish, Lord Vader," Jax replied with a respectful nod. "I will carry out your orders."

Vader's cold mask betrayed no emotion as he continued, "Commander Appo has proven himself unfit for the task at hand. The Empire demands unwavering loyalty and efficiency. You, Commander Jax, have always demonstrated dedication to the cause."

Jax's mind raced with conflicting emotions. Appo had been his comrade and fellow commander, and the idea of turning against him felt like a betrayal. But he understood the ruthless nature of the Empire and the consequences of failure.

"I will take care of it personally," Jax said firmly, suppressing any trace of doubt. "There will be no room for mistakes."

Vader's masked face remained inscrutable as he spoke, "Good. Remember, emotions cloud judgment. Show no mercy, for the Empire's strength lies in its commitment to order and discipline."

"I understand, Lord Vader," Jax replied, his voice unwavering.

"Then go, Commander Jax, and complete your mission," Vader commanded.

"If all goes according to plan, the 501st and 45th Legions will merge and you will be placed as Commander of the 501st." Vader spoke.

Jax's eyes widened at Lord Vader's words. The prospect of leading the prestigious 501st Legion, the renowned and elite unit, was an unexpected honor. It was a testament to his dedication and prowess as a commander within the Empire.

"I am honored, Lord Vader," Jax replied, trying to contain his surprise and gratitude. "I will do everything in my power to prove myself worthy of such a responsibility."

Vader's mask seemed to regard him with its enigmatic gaze. "You have shown loyalty and efficiency in your service to the Empire," he said. "I expect nothing less from you as the Commander of the 501st."

"I will not disappoint you, Lord Vader," Jax said firmly. "I will lead the 501st with the same dedication and commitment that I have shown in the 45th Legion."

Vader's mechanical breathing echoed in the silence that followed. "Your loyalty to the Empire will be rewarded," he said finally. "Carry out your mission diligently, Commander Jax, and ensure the success of our forces."

"I will, my Lord," Jax replied, feeling a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

With that, Lord Vader turned and departed, leaving Jax to contemplate the weight of his new responsibilities. Leading the 501st Legion was an opportunity to make a significant impact in service of the Empire, but it also meant facing difficult decisions and challenges ahead.

As Jax prepared to carry out his mission to eliminate Commander Appo, he knew that his loyalty to the Empire would be tested. The path ahead would be fraught with peril, but he was ready to embrace his role as the future Commander of the 501st and do whatever it took to secure the Empire's dominance in the galaxy.

As the Venator dropped out of hyperspace over Felucia, Jax couldn't help but feel a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. He knew that the success of their mission hinged on the deception he had concocted—a plan to "capture" Ahsoka Tano, but in reality, it was a trap for Appo.

"Listen up, everyone," Jax addressed the assembled troops in the hangar. "Our target is Ahsoka Tano, the traitorous Jedi. Intel suggests that she might be hiding in the jungles of Felucia, and we have reason to believe she may be attempting to rally local forces against the Empire."