BAC Relentless, Flag Quarters, Location Redacted

The war had been costly. He could see it on the faces of his men and he could see it in the body language of the Dark Jedi on board the cruiser. Something had to change. There needed to be a change in tactics. Shikyo had been thinking for quite some time on different strategies to use against the One Sith. His thoughts kept returning to a handful of scenarios.

Optimistic chirping came from the holo-communicator in his quarters as blue light gathered in the form of a beautiful woman, stomach expanded beyond her build.

“You said you’d keep in touch.”

“I’m sorry, mesh’la. I’ve been cleaning up operations here. How’s Misahide?”

“Beautiful. The trees are beginning to blossom. Although, Katsuhide doesn’t seem to like his new assignment.”

The Elder smiled.

“He’s a warrior. He doesn’t like the fact that he’s missing out on crucial moments of the campaign. Give him time.”

Another series of chirps came from the device. This time, the series were more direct and militant. The Keibatsu understood their meaning.

“I have to go, my dear. Musashi is calling.”

“Ok. Be safe.”

“I will.”

Elysia’s form shifted into a taller, more authoritative form. Shikyo stared into the darkened eyes of his brother, steeling his nerves before speaking.

“My lord, I have a request.”

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/

Landing Point Bravo, Dromund system, Dromund Kaas

The Imperial shuttle had been lucky to sneak through the defenses of the One Sith and the intelligence gathered would be valuable to the assault. Corporal Zhune had just been handpicked to accompany the Herald on a mission vital to the Iron Throne’s success. While the excitement fueled each step, his training refused to allow his emotions to compromise his intentions. He moved out of the shuttle quickly, taking point and watching for potential threats.

Three other troopers rushed out of the bay and onto the landing zone, scouting the area before they could the dark presence moving behind them. A shiver crept down his spine before he regained his senses. The corporal was just beginning to scan over a distant ridge when the sound of gears and electronics whirring stole his attention. Zhune had just noticed the thermal detonator rig when a violent plume of fire erupted a couple of feet from his position.

Multiple explosions consumed the platform before the shuttle fought in vain to escape the destruction. Engines popped and emitted more plumes as the vehicle spiraled out of control and detonated before resting in the damp fauna. On a distant ridge, a dark figure stood watching the chaos, relieved that the corporal had not revealed his location before the detonation. He reached into his leather pouch, pulling a handheld holo-communicator and pressing the button.

Darth Ashen stood on the small disc, peering into the obsidian mask of the figure.

“Report.”

“The shuttle has been destroyed and all witnesses silenced. Inform the Dark Council that Shikyo Keibatsu has been killed in action. I will proceed with Operation: Wraith.”

“Understood. May the Force serve you, otouto.”

\/\/\/\/

Today marks my six year anniversary as Herald and it is with that said that I am officially resigning the position. Six years is a long time to hold a single position, especially one that requires a creative and imaginative mind. To make a lightsaber, set of robes, etc., you have to have a drive and desire to do something that has never been seen before and find new ideas that others will enjoy. Unfortunately, my desire to push the bounds has been shot and I find myself asking, “What the hell else is there to do?”

Currently, James and Invictus have been working on a warbanner template that will automatically build most Warbanners for people. I know they are approaching beta status with this and it would be amazing to see it in action. This would alleviate most requests and allow us to focus on creating custom requests for peak appearance. I know I had submitted a custom lightsaber request form that is more specific to ensure a higher quality saber for those who’ve earned them. I am sure it will come out along with the warbanner template.

For the most part, it’s been a lot of fun and I’ve really enjoyed seeing the ideas in my head take form and be appreciated by those who’ve seen them. However, you don’t take up a leadership position and not expect the responsibilities that come along with it. In my case, real life is more important to me than these responsibilities and it is not fair to hold a position that someone else will appreciate.

First things first, I’d like to thank the Keibatsu for pushing me in the beginning, inspiring me to go above my bounds, and expect nothing but the best. You guys are amazing and I am proud to be a part of this family.

I’d like to thank my Staff, current and past, who’ve kept me on the straight and narrow, as well as keep me on my toes to ensure policies exist for a reason. We’ve been extremely productive and have seen an astounding number of robes, lightsabers, and Warbanners for the entire Brotherhood. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people. Period.

Last but not least, I want to thank the crazy bastards that are on the Dark Council. You guys have been my driving force for years now and it has been an absolute pleasure to work with every one of you. Thank you for giving me grief when I needed it and a laugh to keep me positive. You guys rock!

With all that said, it’s been a helluva ride but it’s time to stop and let someone take the reins.

May the Force serve you all well.

-DJM Shikyo Sasuke Keibatsu Herald of the Dark Jedi Brotherhood Daimyo of the Keibatsu Bloodline