The Darkness of War - STAR WARS (English version)

Chapter 1 Darkness and Light

Star Wars and all characters and elements of the universe are owned by Lucasfilm and Disney. I do not claim any rights to these characters or this universe. This work is fan fiction created for fun and is not intended to infringe on any copyrights.

Volyrn Verdun

Young Lieutenant Volyrn Verdun stood on the bridge of the Venator-class Star Destroyer Liberator, gazing through the wide viewport at the red planet Kaelebra, slowly rotating beneath them. Kaelebra was a barren world where a relentless battle between the forces of the Republic and the Separatists had been raging for months. Battle droids had occupied the planet for months, establishing their bases there, and now the Republic had sent a fleet to finally drive the enemies out of this region. Volyrn felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, knowing that he was not just there as an officer – he was there to support his adoptive father, Admiral Teraan, who was commanding the entire operation.
Admiral Teraan, a stern and seasoned commander, stood beside him, hands clasped behind his back. His gaze, always cold and focused, scanned the holographic battle map displayed in the center of the bridge. The clone troopers on the planet's surface awaited further orders. The Jedi leading the offensive, Knight Zorin Kael and his master, Jedi Master Serra Valen, were ready to make their next move. Everything depended on the admiral's decision.
Volyrn turned away from the window and looked at his father. He had always admired him – his determination, his cold calculation in the face of danger. However, with each passing day on the Liberator, Volyrn increasingly felt the weight of expectations. He knew that the admiral would demand perfection from him, as always. Volyrn couldn't afford to fail. Even though he was officially an officer of the Republic, he always felt like a student trying to please a stern teacher.
"Volyrn, look at the map," Teraan said, not taking his eyes off the hologram. "It seems the Separatists are moving their units toward the northern ruins. The battle droids have concentrated their forces there. We need to act quickly before they can fortify their position."
Volyrn stepped closer. The hologram displayed the topography of the planet – vast canyons, mountains, and Kaelebra's wastelands. The Separatists had established their bases in the ruins of a long-forgotten civilization, but the Republic had no intention of letting them stay there. This was a battle for control over a strategic area that could be a turning point in the war.
"What do you propose?" Teraan asked, his tone slightly softer, though still firm.
Volyrn looked at the data, calculating in his mind. "The Jedi should strike before the Separatists have a chance to fully entrench themselves," he thought, though he knew the operation would require precise coordination. Jedi Master Valen and her apprentice were on the front lines. Their task was to weaken the Separatists' forces, enabling the main Republic troops to land. But every move had to be meticulously planned to avoid heavy losses.
"I think we should support Master Valen and Zorin with airstrikes," Volyrn replied, pointing to the concentration of droids at the northern ruins. "The Separatists won't expect an attack from the east, and our clone units could easily flank them. The Jedi can launch a frontal assault, and we'll provide orbital support."
Admiral Teraan was silent for a moment, analyzing Volyrn's words. His eyes remained cold, but he nodded in approval.
"You're thinking wisely, Volyrn," he said, glancing at his son. "Contact Master Valen. Tell her to prepare her forces for an attack. We'll commence orbital bombardment as soon as they're ready."
Volyrn turned to the communications station and established contact with the forces on the surface. A few moments later, the image of Jedi Master Valen appeared on the holoprojector. Her face was stern, but as always, she radiated calm.
"Lieutenant Verdun," she said in a cool yet polite tone. "What are the orders?"
"Master Valen, we have a plan. We can support you with orbital bombardment on the droid concentration at the northern ruins. If you strike frontally, our ground units will flank them, and we'll end this quickly."
The Jedi nodded.
"Zorin is ready. We'll launch the attack in an hour. We'll secure the ruins and open the way for your troops." After a moment, she added, "I trust your plan will prove effective, Lieutenant."
The communication ended, and Volyrn looked at his father, who seemed more satisfied than usual. Admiral Teraan rarely showed his emotions, but Volyrn knew that whatever happened, his evaluation of this battle would impact their relationship for a long time.
"Good work, Volyrn," the admiral said, which was a rare compliment. "Now everything depends on the Jedi and your coordination. You have my trust."
Volyrn nodded and returned to his station, preparing for the greatest test of his life.

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