- CASTLES CRUMBLING (A.S.) -

- 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐘-𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 -

and i'm on the middle mark

THE CLONES'S trooper torches lit the stone floor as the group made their way through the Sith Temple. Though the lighting wasn't all too good, Regina could make out her surroundings with great detail.

The floor underfoot was smooth but dusty under her feet. From the steady echo their footfalls made, Regina could also determine that the ceiling was high-vaulted and most certainly made out of some type of stone as well. On either side of her, she could see an occasional pillar. The room was massive, hosting gigantic statues that appeared to be ancient Sith lords.

And there was an ever-present feeling of darkness. There was no doubt that this could be anything but a monastery for the ancient Sith.

Breaker shuddered. "I don't like it here."

"Perfect place for clankers to hide," quipped Clipper. "Might even catch them by surprise."

"Quiet, both of you," Blue ordered, not rudely but firmly. Both troopers shut their mouths immediately.

But Blue was right: Breaker and Clipper's voices were echoing around the room and any unnecessary sound could alert a potential enemy. So they moved on silently, Regina in the lead.

They were reaching the center of the massive hall. Up to this point, Regina had been relying on the Force to guide her. She was essentially following the trail of darkness, going to the point where it ebbed out, almost as if it were a beacon. But she knew she'd have to make a choice soon on where they were to go next.

Up ahead, Regina caught sight of a stone staircase that rose out of sight. She got the feeling that they needed to go that way. But that never happened.

A flash of movement diverted Regina's gaze. It had come from the side of the staircase and it seemed as if there was a doorway of some kind hidden in that direction.

And the figure that emerged was none other than Count Dooku, the source of the evil himself—or most of it. Regina recognized him from the Battle of Geonosis several months before. He was dressed very similarly as he had that day, black cloak and all. Regina steeled herself. This was what she was here for.

"I'm glad you've finally arrived, young Sitara." Dooku's deep voice echoed in the massive chamber, and Regina felt it reverberate in her bones. "It's good to finally make your acquaintance. Though, it took you longer to get here than I expected it would."

Regina felt her jaw clench. Closing her eyes for a brief second, she willed herself to relax, focusing on the Force. She tilted her head to look up at the count. His white hair contrasted sharply with his black cloak. He was standing casually, as if undaunted by Regina and her companions.

"We did delay looking around," Regina said absently as if she didn't care. "We had more important issues to deal with."

Dooku didn't dignify her insult with a reply.

"Certainly you're curious as to why I've decided to hold myself up here," he replied coolly.

Regina shrugged. "I honestly assumed that you would send Ventress or Grievous." Dooku laughed in a deep, menacing manner.

"You have Autiki's wit, I will give you that."

 Regina begrudgingly realized that the count sounded more amused than anything. Well, better to keep him that way. Regina flicked her hand, sending Breaker and Clipper off to scout the perimeter. Blue remained behind in case his Jedi needed backup.