**Chapter 413: Mending Fractures**
**Nox's POV**
The fleet gathered in orbit above Lantilles like a gathering storm.
Nox stood on the bridge of the *Finalizer*, watching the impressive armada assemble. Fifteen *Valiant*-class Star Destroyers formed the core, their wedge shapes cutting through space with lethal grace. Six *Allegiance*-class battlecruisers flanked them, heavy hitters ready for any confrontation. Five *Resurgent*-class Battlecruisers loomed like dark promises, their advanced designs a clear upgrade from older models. Twenty *Venator*-class Star Destroyers provided versatile carrier support, while eight *Acclamator* assault ships carried the ground forces that would decide the fate of Ryloth. Seventy *Lancer*-class frigates, thirty *Arquitens*-class command cruisers, twenty *Blood*-class light carriers, fifteen *Marauder*-class corvettes, and twenty *Aegis Hammerhead*-class light cruisers completed the formation.
It was a formidable force. Enough to take Ryloth in a single day if executed correctly.
But relationships were not so easily conquered.
Nox sighed. *One day to heal what took months to break. This is going to be interesting.*
He started with the easiest: Zule.
Her sisters, Ashla and Cera, still called Dagon "big brother" with innocent affection. That bond might be the key.
Zule's quarters were dimly lit. When Nox requested entry, her voice sounded tired. "Yes."
He stepped inside and immediately noticed her green skin — a clear sign of deep Falleen depression.
"You look like bantha poodoo," Nox said bluntly.
"Yeah, thanks," Zule replied, not even looking up from where she sat on the edge of her bed.
Nox crossed his arms. "What are you here for, Nox? I don't feel like training. I've had enough of the dark side and being around people like Dagon."
Nox raised an eyebrow. "Wow, really? After everything you guys have been through? Even after I read the report where Dagon died on Tatooine and you restarted his heart and saved his life?"
Zule's head snapped up, eyes flashing with pain. "Did you know how he ended up dead?" she screamed. "By opening a portal to send me away while he faced a monster!"
"Yeah, a Gen'Dai. Hard as nails. Never heard of a Jedi or even a Sith killing them. I heard he killed two so far — the latest in the video 'Clash of Immortals' on Tatooine. I also read he risked his life to save you on Ohma-D'un when your master was Jedi Knight Glaive."
Zule looked away, voice breaking. "What do you want from me? Do you want me to go back? I can't. I am…"
"Afraid, right?" Nox finished. "So easy with Jedi. But hey, I guess this must be why the current Jedi Code says no attachments. Well, good for you."
Zule's eyes blazed. "The current Jedi Code knows nothing! It's relationships and love that helps us grow!" She started ranting, pacing the room. "Dagon showed me that. He showed me what real connection means. The Code would have left my mother and sisters to die. Dagon didn't. He burned an entire empire for them!"
Nox watched her carefully. "Really? So why don't you love Dagon?"
Zule stopped. Her mouth opened, then closed. Tears welled up. "Because he… because… I don't know anymore."
She collapsed onto the bed, sobbing.
*Great. Just great,* Nox thought.
He waited a moment, then spoke gently. "Dagon wants you in the *Finalizer* headquarters. He is transferring his command there, in the bed quarters. So don't be late."
Zule wiped her eyes and stood up quickly. "Yes."
She ran out.
*One done. Five more. This is going to be long.*
Nox sighed and headed toward the next target. The fleet was ready for war.
But first, he had to try to fix what was broken.