Chapter 2

Nullin sat in his captain's chair stationed in the middle of the command deck pondering the current situation.

"Sir, communications have just decrypted a message from Coruscant. The Emperor was assassinated at Endor. Apparently the rebels destroyed a new Death Star they were building there." Jessa said.

Nullin was surprised that they had built another one after the first one had been destroyed by the rebel alliance. As he thought about it that did explain why the other Moff had attacked. Now everyone in power was fighting for the right to be called the next Emperor. Nullin and the small fleet he had under his command were now caught in the middle of a civil war, as imperial forces engaged each other. Nullin was a simple soldier who had no desire for galactic domination. His goal was simple: keep his people alive, and get them to safety.

"What are your orders sir?" Jessa asked.

The idea of duty seemed almost ludicrous right now. Technically he owed no one anything now. Nullin could leave and find some quiet part of the universe, and perhaps rise to some high position in a small military organization. The idea did have its appeal. Looking at his crew he found all of them looking at him expectantly. They trusted him just as all the crews did. He was Nullin Terra: the man who had protected them, and risked his life as well as his career many times to help them. Facing those trusting faces he wondered how many others would be left behind in the struggle for power.

"Call the captains here. We will meet in the briefing room in two hours." Nullin replied.

All the captains of each of the ships in the fleet gathered in the meeting room. Taking their seats they waited for Nullin to arrive. It took less than a minute for him to enter. Rising from their seats, and standing at attention they showed their respect. Motioning for them to be seated Nullin remained standing.

"As you all have no doubt heard our Emperor was killed at Endor. Right now I believe the Empire we once served is now gone, and now those in power are fighting to become the next Emperor. Moff is turning against Moff, admiral against admiral, and captain against captain and so on.

I intend to gather the stragglers like us: those caught in the middle of the fighting: civilian and military alike. When we have rescued all we can, we will take them to some place safe and out of the way. It will be a dangerous mission, and all former oaths no longer exist. You are now free of all former obligations. Those of you who wish it may leave now. I'm giving you this one chance.

After this my orders are law. There will be no changing of your minds. Return to your ships and speak to your crews. Once you all have made your decision you can return here tomorrow at 1400 hrs. Dismissed people." Nullin said.

Nullin waited a moment but none of them moved. Not one of the various captains tried to stand up, or made any indication that they intended to leave.