Your powers are weak, old man.
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I swear this sacred oath that I shall render unconditional obedience to Emperor Palpatine, to exercise every power in service to the Galactic Empire, and shall, whensoever I am asked, be prepared, as a loyal servant, to surrender my life for this oath.
—Marek upon graduating the Imperial Academy
Marek "Wampa" Vaiken Stele, originally designated OS-233-09 but later OS-147-02, temporarily going by the callsign Black Seven then Cloak Leader, was a human male ace TIE pilot in the Galactic Empire's Imperial Navy. Marek was a descendent of Odile Vaiken, a Grand Moff in the Sith Empire and the founder of the Sith Imperial Military, as well as Krayk Vaiken, a general in the Sith Imperial Army. Hailing from the industrial planet of Metalorn, he was originally conscripted to become a stormtrooper. However, after taking a turn in a flight simulator, his superiors noticed his potential as a pilot and transferred him to the Bastion Military Academy to train for the Navy as a combat pilot. Upon graduating at the top of his class with the rank of lieutenant, he was first assigned to the 233rd Imperial Fighter Wing. They were defeated at Ord Biniir, but the defeat was evened out by the fact that Marek shot down eleven enemies in his first combat operation, making him an ace.
Because of that, Marek was selected for a special test by Vader on Mygeeto. He was successful, and was asked by Vader to join the Black Eight Squadron, his elite unit. In it, he met Mia Ikova, another ace whom he eventually married. Following many successes, in 3 ABY, he was placed into the elite Emperor's Sword squadron, and with that, the Imperial Palace Guard. He attributed his skills to his Force sensitivity. Following the deaths of Palpatine and Darth Vader during the Battle of Endor, an engagement in which Marek participated, he worked for Captain Pelleon, and later, Grand Admiral Thrawn. Being the best pilot in Thrawn's Confederacy, Marek was made head of the main force of TIEs that served Thrawn, Cloak Squadron. Fighting in the Thrawn campaign, he took part in the raids on Bpfassh and the Sluis Van shipyards. Marek was then given multiple Imperial Medals by the Chiss officer, and was placed in command of Storm Squadron. It was a unit of elite pilots the did quick strikes to sensitive areas of the New Republic, and became known as "the Empire's Rogue Squadron. Because of that, he was not available at Bilbringi, where Thrawn died.
Following that, Palpatine emerged reborn and called fleet to the Deep Core world of Byss, and Marek complied. In his new Dark Empire, Marek was part of the 147th Imperial Fighter Wing and fought New Republic forces in several battles. After the final death of Palpatine, he joined Admiral Natasi Daala and the new Imperial Remnant. During the Yuuzhan Vong War, starting in 25 ABY, he fought along side Ikova in several battles. Though she was not as skilled as Marek, Ikova was one of his best pilots. Daala noticed this, and made Marek the leader of her Emperor's Shield, the personal escort squadron of the Imperial Chief of State. Marek recruited several ex-Emperor's Sword pilots into the new squad, including Ikova. Later, after the Yuuzhan Vong conflict was over, Pelleon became the Head of State, and Marek served him.
Shortly before the Second Galactic Civil War, Marek married Ikova. He fought against the Corellian Confederation during the War, but later for the Jedi after Pelleon decided to switch sides, realizing that the Galactic Alliance leader Jacen Solo was a Sith. After Pelleon was assassinated by Tahiri Veila, and was replaced by Jagged Fel, Marek continued serving under him. His squadron, the Emperor's Shield, often flew escort for him. When Fel met with Leia Organa Solo over Coruscant for a diplomatic meeting aboard his Star Destroyer, Marek was present at the small assembly of troops in the hangar. Later, he fought against Abeloth and the Lost Tribe of Sith. In 43 ABY, Marek was made a Grand Admiral, being the only one since the death of Octavian Grant.
When his wife was promoted to Moff of the Thuris Sector, he became the commander of the Thuris Sector Fleet.
Biography[]
Early life[]
Good thing the Republic is gone, being chained by petty regulations. The Empire ensures stability.
—Marek, knowing politics at a young age
Marek was born on Metalorn, an industrial planet in the Outer Rim Territories originally used by the Confederacy of Independent Systems for constructing battle droids, and by the Sith Empire before them for the same purpose. It's surface was covered with various metals, factories, ore processing plants, smelting plants, garbage dumps, and a few small cities. Marek was born in the largest settlement in 17 BBY to Zellos Vaiken and Marina Stele. Their family descended from two important figures: the most famous being Odile Vaiken, the first Grand Moff of the Sith Empire and founder of the Empire's Imperial military; with the second being his grandson, Krayk Vaiken, who went on to become a general in the Empire's Sith Imperial army during the Great Galactic War. What Marek often ponders in his early years was how the descendents of two such important men ended up on a remote world as a factory worker and a former Imperial Army trooper conscript.
He worked in factories throughout his teenage years, though noticed various freighters hauling off metal and products on and off of Metalorn. After seeing them fly and experiencing flying in an MAAT gunship of the local Imperial garrison (thanks to his father's old contacts), Marek wanted to become a pilot. He studied engineering, aerodynamics, and starship mechanics extensively since age 11 from workers that specialized in those fields. Though he learned a lot about it, he could not actual try flying until age 16, when he found a T-16 Skyhopper in one of the many junk mountains on the planet. He was quite skilled at it from studying, and found it easy to land and take off. However, he did not like the T-16 model itself for various reasons. But that was all he had and practiced with it a lot.
At the same time, he also tried his best to keep up with galactic politics and news. Marek supported the New Order and the Empire for the most part, not agreeing with the xenophobia against aliens. He believed anyone could be born with some kind of skill and it could be exploited for the Empire's cause, human or not. Marek was not entirely aware of the oppressive nature of the Empire, since Metalorn provided them with metal, and that was what it did for all of it's rulers. He considered joining COMPNOR, but his father knew that CompForce soldiers were barely given any training and relies on suicidal tactics, and prevented Marek from joining.
When he turned 17 in 0 ABY, Marek was unexpectedly drafted into the Stormtrooper Corps. Though he knew stormtroopers were elite troops, Marek wanted to be a pilot nonetheless. As Marek was sent to the Carida Imperial Military Academy, he got a plan. After deliberately challenging a Navy cadet in a mock dogfight in simulators in front of officers, he easily defeated the cadet. The officers watching that decided he would make a much better pilot than stormtrooper, and transferred him to the little-known Bastion Military Academy to train as a Navy TIE pilot.
In the Empire[]
Marek swearing the Oath of Obedience.
Hail the Emperor!
—Marek during training
At the Military Academy of Bastion, a fortress world, Marek trained as an Imperial pilot relentlessly. He had an advantage over his fellow cadets, being more skilled than most of them, due to studying flight from a young age. Early on, he was considered a future ace by some instructors. Marek engaged in both flight and fitness training during his early days at the academy, as well as marksmanship and survival skills. Marek found it unneeded, but it was for the case they would crash land into dangerous environments or would be engaged aboard their Star Destroyers by boarders. Though he did not prefect his marksmanship and melee combat skills, Marek became more skilled than the average person.
Marek and his comrades then began fully training on piloting. Using flight simulators, each cadet was trained the basics of flying the standard TIE/ln starfighter. He got them down quickly, and after a while, they started flying actual TIEs around the academy. When all of the cadets mastered the standard TIE fighter, they again returned to the simulators. They were assigned into squads, and faced both each other as well as AI fighters of various types. The cadets were encouraged to try various roles, using different TIE variants and familiarizing themselves with the controls of each. The point of the assignment was to figure out who will be flying what type of vessel. A third of the class, in the end, ended up flying normal TIE fighters. Another third either got TIE/sa bombers or TIE/In interceptors, while the last third got other TIE variants. Though Marek proved to be good in combat, getting some of the top kill counts, he ultimately proved to be a good recon scout. Because of that, he was assigned to the TIE/rc Vanguard, a craft he trained with from then on.
Marek's TIE Vanguard, a light craft designed for reconnaissance and patrol duty.
For the rest of their training, they preformed mock battles to familiarize themselves with the controls of their assigned variants. Marek later found out that that program of training for different TIE variants was not normal, and it was being tested on their class. It was deemed successful. He had to listen to one of his classmates, Tel Skutu, whine about being assigned to fly a TIE/sh shuttle. Marek told him piloting a shuttle was actually an honor, being deemed skilled enough to be able to transport officers. He stopped complaining after that. For the last several months of their time at the academy, the cadets trained in piloting the real versions of their crafts.
During his time at the Bastion Academy, Matek noted many sessions were devoted to indoctrinating the cadets. Though he believed in most of the New Order's ideals, some he opposed. Nonetheless, Marek became extremely loyal and devoted to the Empire, as his instructors noted when hearing him volunteering for a kamikaze mission in a flight simulator mock battle. A graduation parade was held for cadets of all branches. While Stormtroopers marched, Army AT-ATs following them, Marek and the other pilot cadets flew over the parade grounds in formation. Following his graduation, Marek was given the rank of lieutenant and a placement in the 233rd Imperial Fighter Wing, within it's Silencer Squadron.
Galactic Civil War[]
Battle of Ord Beniir[]
We were mauled at Ord Biniir. I personally did fine, but my comrades unfortunately did not. I do not blame them, though. I gotta thank Fel and his 181st friends for coming to clean up after us.
—Marek after the Battle of Ord Biniir
Marek and the 233rd were stationed at an Imperial outpost on the planet of Ord Beniir. The world was not very important, and units were stationed there often to get more practice after coming out fresh from the academy before heading off to actual war. Marek found it all rather boring, flying his Vanguard around the planet multiple times a day for patrol. However, he realized how many fellow pilots needed the time to practice, seeing them to be mediocre. Marek noted no one from his class at Bastion was in the entire 233rd. Not that he became friends with any of them, on the contrary, many were jealous of his skill and how he dazzled his instructors. However, one day when he was flying a routine patrol with his wingman, Marek noted a Rebel Navy fleet approaching through orbit. He realized the 233rd was about to see it's first taste of action.
The Battle of Ord Biniir.
On his flight back to the 233rd headquarters, Marek used the Vanguard's (his was the Silencer Nine) long range communication systems to inform the troops of what he witnessed. Squadrons were scrambled, and by the time Marek returned, nearly all of the 233rd's fighters were in the air. The Rebel Alliance was cautious, and deployed two wings (ten squadrons) of fighters. Marek and the others fought hard despite the odds. He personally shot down seven fighters within the first twenty minutes. It was relatively easy since everyone was so close together and in high numbers. What Marek had to try to do was not shoot down a fellow Imperial by mistake. He realized that only five kills were required to be an ace, making him one.
By the end of it, Marek had eleven kills. However, his comrades did not fare that well. The Alliance to Restore the Republic was victorious, and Marek flew the Silencer Nine, which was slightly damaged, to a nearby spaceport where the 233rd survivors regrouped after the defeat. A Star Destroyer arrived soon afterwards. In a report to the officers, the wing commander informed them that Marek became in ace in his first battle, and received the second highest amount of kills. It was listed on his Imperial record, rather than the fact that his unit lost the battle.
Battle of Mygeeto[]
Can't we just wait for the Rebs to freeze to death?
—Marek prior to the battle
Marek and several other elite 233rd pilots were transported to the Executor, the Super Star Destroyer flagship of Darth Vader. He informed the small group that there was a major rebellion on Mygeeto, an ice planet. The Alliance established an outpost there following the fall of the pro-Imperial government there. A strike force from the Executor was to quickly destroy the base, ending the Rebel presence there, and cover the ground troop landings to secure the planet. As the Executor left Ord Biniir, Marek heard that the 181st Imperial Fighter Wing took back the base there from the Rebels.
Upon arrival in the Mygeeto system, Marek was given a more detailed briefing by Admiral Piett. Marek was to fly a TIE bomber to the outpost, unescorted because there were no Rebel ships present, and bombard the base. He understood but got a bit anxious when he noticed Vader watching, who came over and told Marek he expected him to do well. Knowing what happened to others who failed the Dark Lord of the Sith, Marek pledged to succeed in the operation. He found that eleven others from the 233rd were to fly bombers with him as well.
Marek flew his bomber to the surface with no problem, but experienced difficulty maneuvering through a dangerous valley. He noted it was never mentioned in the briefing. Three pilots were lost passing through it. They were down to nine pilots (including him). After leaving it behind, Marek and the others flew through a tundra, which led up to the base. It was speckled with Rebel artillery, which constantly fired at them. Another four were lost, leaving five, including him. Finally, upon reaching the base, the squad realized that it was defended by quadlasers. During the bombing that they carried out, all but Marek were killed.
Marek in the Black Eight Squadron.
Leaving the outpost in ruins, the sole survivor of the Majestic Twelve returned to the Executor. Vader informed him of the name, and Marek realized what the actual point of that mission was. Having to go through various obstacles that they were not informed of and thus having to adapt quickly to new situations, he realized it was a test. Vader told him that it was, and said he was impressed by what he did. Vader then gave him a choice to join the elite Black Eight Squadron, which he accepted. With it, he got promoted to captain.
Battle of Kamino[]
Leave some for the rest of us!
—Marek's wingman
He was sent to the rest of the Black Eight Squadron on Kamino, many of whom were new members themselves. Marek was amazed with himself, not expecting to get that far at all. He thought he would end up dying in one of his first battles with a few kills and no recognition. While on Kamino, he met the other members of the squad. The squad executive officer, Arkos Rakton, despised him after hearing Marek was from Metalorn. Arkos viewed anyone from there to be a petty factory worker. However, he also met a female pilot whom he took a liking to, named Ensign Mia Ikova. She came from an upper class background and joined the Navy to become a pilot, since she enjoyed flying spacecraft. They flew in formation over Kamino to patrol for several days.
Finally, all of their patrolling paid off. An Alliance fleet exited hyperspace and began attacking Kamino. The defense fleet of Star Destroyers engaged them and deployed fighters, but Black Eight Squadron was on the ground, awaiting Vader's orders. In his TIE Advanced x1, he personally led the squadron into combat. Marek and Arkos flew as his wingmen, and helped him take out individual Rebel fighters. Vader remarked that the low skills of Rebel pilots disgusted him and flew back down to the surface, leaving Black Eight Squadron to sort out what was left. Marek gained another seven kills before the Alliance fleet retreated, giving him eighteen total with the ones from Ord Biniir.
The Alliance fleet took heavy casualties, and retreated. Shortly after the battle, Marek's comrades gave him the nickname "Wampa" for his icy precision. Black Eight went back to patrolling the skies for a while, before being rotated off world for a mission directly ordered by Vader.
Hunting the Traitors[]
It will be done, my Lord.
—Marek after receiving Vader's orders
They were picked up on Vader's order by a task force under Grand Admiral Thrawn, the Whirlwind Battle Group. It consisted of the Imperial-class Star Destroyers Gorgon, Hydrus, and Verox, as well as several Dreadnaught-class heavy cruisers. They were summoned to the Triton system, with no habitable worlds. Vader briefed Black Eight personally, informing them that Admiral Harkov had gone rogue. Though the most problematic issue was that he had several TIE factories under his control, which produced craft like TIE/D Defenders and TIE/ad Avengers. They were to attack the space installation he was on, a station called E-40. It produced some of those fighters, and Harkov had a small fleet which he commanded.
Marek aboard the Gorgon.
Thrawn ordered the attack, deploying three units; Black Eight Squadron, Hydra Squadron, and Dark Squadron. The Black Eights were piloting experimental TIE/D Defenders, the Hydras and Darks were flying in regular TIE fighters. The enemies, Harkov's pilots, were flying Defenders and TIE/ad Avengers. During the fighting, Marek scored several more kills, and the Empire was nearing victory when he received a transmission from Vader saying that Arkos was a Rebel agent. He ordered Marek to shoot him down, and so he complied. Shortly afterwards, the Victory II-class frigate that was Harkov's flagship was destroyed, killing him. Meanwhile, Imperial Marines boarded and took over the station from his Imperial Navy troopers. The attack was announced a victory.
Aboard the Gorgon, Thrawn's flagship, Vader told Marek he preformed well and promoted him to commander. A different pilot, Zarin Orvak, was appointed the replacement squad leader. Vader informed Marek he was going to follow the ace's career. He also told Marek that the Prophets of the Dark Side, mainly called the Secret Order of the Emperor, would attempt to recruit him as an Emperor's Hand, and he was to decline. Vader didn't want all of the best pilots working for Palpatine.
Following Vader's debriefing, the fleet of Thrawn departed the system with Black Eight and the other squadrons. Grand Admiral Thrawn informed everyone on the way to another system that he invented a craft to counter the already advanced TIE Defender, called the Missile Boat.
Preventing A Trade Off[]
The Task Force then went to the Omar system, where a Carrack-class light cruiser that escaped from the devastation of Harkov's fleet met up with three Rebel Nebulon B2-class frigates. Thrawn deployed all squadrons, though this time, Marek and the rest of the Black Eights were using his missile boats, while the Darks got TIE Defenders and the Hydras got TIE Avengers from the E-40 facility. The Carrack cruiser was attempting to send off four TIE Defenders to the Alliance. Marek and the squad were sent off to destroy the Rebel cruisers, the Carrack, and the four TIEs.
The Rebels got to them shortly after the squadrons were scrambled. Marek shot down two of the Defenders and then proceeded to engage the Rebel frigates. The Carrack was destroyed by the Verox's guns. With the missile boat, they managed to destroy all of the enemy vessels in the system without them escaping. Marek destroyed one Rebel frigate almost entirely alone, demonstrating the effectiveness of the missile boat. Following the battle, Thrawn and Vader were both pleased with the performance. The advanced TIEs did not fall into Rebel engineers' hands, and three Rebel frigates were lost.
The Missile Boat Medallion, awarded to Marek and other Black Eight members.
The battle demonstrated the ability of elite pilots with advanced fighters, after which Vader ordered Sienar Fleet Systems to produce more missile boats. Every Black Eight member was awarded a modified Imperial Medal of Accomplishment, usually awarded to test pilots. They were given it for successfully testing the missile boat. Swan Squadron was later formed due to their successes.
Battle of Anakasa[]
The Battle of Anakasa.
Following the victories in the Triton and Omar star systems, Marek was stationed aboard the Gorgon, as with the rest of Black Eight Squadron, at the request of Thrawn. He planned a campaign to subjugate several Rebel worlds, starting with Anakasa. Marek, meanwhile, contacted his parents. He told them of his successes, such as reaching the rank of commander, earning Vader's praise, joining one of the Empire's most elite squadrons, becoming an ace, and being one of the first few to earn the Missile Boat Medallion. They said they were extremely proud of him, and told Marek they thought he was dead until that point, since he hasn't talked to them in so long. Marek said he could send them off of Metalorn to live on Coruscant, at the house given to him by the Empire, and they accepted.
A briefing officer informed Black Eight of their mission: destroy all Rebel capitol ships using missile boats, with aid from TIE bombers and heavy bombers. The other squadrons would take care of the fighters. As the fleet entered the system and began attacking, the Alliance was taken by surprise. Marek and several others quickly destroyed a Corellian Corvette at the head of the Rebel fleet, and proceeded to take out a Nebulon-B frigate. By the time they were done with that, the others took out two Mon Cal cruisers and one dreadnaught. Marek then helped out with a badly damaged bulk cruiser, and then the moved on to the last Mon Cal cruiser.
However, all remaining fighters begun to converge around the last cruiser. They had to engage fighters first, so Marek ended up destroying several X-wings. He found them easy to destroy, but nearly panicked when he noticed that Mia was almost shot down by an enemy fighter. In the end, the Mon Cal cruiser and all Rebel fighters were destroyed with minimal Imperial loses.
Thrawn was quite impressed with the performance, promoting Marek to colonel after the battle. Marek was amazed at how effective the missile boat was, and was shocked when he heard that the Emperor planned to cancel the program that made more of them. However, Vader awarded him the award 'Ace of the Empire' on Coruscant, in the Imperial Palace.
Marek at the ceremony in the Imperial Palace.
Guarding Checkpoint D-4[]
You're not thinking of joining the terrorists!
—Marek to other squad members
After the award ceremony on Imperial Center, Marek was reunited with his squad, who congratulated him. Their new posting was at D-4, a space station in some system close to Hoth used by Imperial Customs & Immigration to check freighters. A larger number than usual were passing through in the aftermath of the Battle of Hoth, and Naval Command suspected that some were Rebel ships evacuating the destroyed base. Marek and the others spent several days patrolling and scanning vessels, but nothing was found.
Marek himself did not mind the boredom of flying TIEs for hours like the others did, since he thought everything they did was for the greater good of the Empire, which he was very devoted to. Some of the others started having doubts after their recent campaigns in the Empire, especially after the betrayal of their executive officer. Marek, upon hearing them say that, told them it was all for the best of the greater galaxy, and they should have been honored to be in the personal squadron of the Supreme Commander of the Imperial Armed Forces. Mia was one of the people having doubts, but stopped after hearing him. However, several others did not. Marek was getting annoyed at that point with them.
Eventually, the Rebel transports they were suspecting came through. They were several bulk superfreighters, though looked suspicious. They were not avoiding the checkpoint but made an effort to fly as far as possible from it, out of it's scanner range. Black Eight was sent in immediately. There were four of them, flying in tight formation. After trying to talk to the crew of why they detected large amounts of military hardware inside, they did not respond. Marek and the squad began attacking them, crippling two of the four ships' engines. Finally, a crew member said that there were also refugees aboard from other systems. Customs ordered them to destroy the ships anyway, and Marek complied without hesitation.
The four ships were destroyed, and what weapons managed to survive the destruction were confiscated by Customs vessels. The rest of the squad was shocked that he did it, and several members started to call him just "Wampa". He did not mind, and realized that this was another test of loyalty. Marek was not exactly sure and did not have his thoughts confirmed until he was contacted by an unnamed priest who claimed to work for the Emperor's Secret Order.
For the Emperor[]
The Emperor's flagship, the Majestic.
His Majesty wanted a confirmation of your loyalty.
—The Priest to Marek
Marek and the others were then sent aboard the Star Destroyer Kuztin, under Vice Admiral Berrus. He was suspected of providing arms to the Rebellion, and Marek was sent by the Order to investigate before they made a strike. The rest of the squadron was told it was simply another posting. For the next several weeks, they travelled to different systems, to suppress Rebel uprisings and the like. However, Marek was always inquisitive and suspicious of what Berrus was doing, and made the other squad members wonder what he was up to. Berrus himself seemed to not notice.
Finally, Berrus revealed his true colors. After retreating from an Alliance fleet in the Sepan system, Berrus gave a speech to the crew of the Kuztin. He stated the Empire grew to corrupt and needed to be cleansed. He stated that Palpatine was part of the problem, and he was to be eliminated so Berrus could replace him. They entered the forgotten Dominus system, and the Vice Admiral contacted the Majestic, the Emperor's Star Destroyer. He told them to go to their location, while Marek informed the Priest of what happened. The Majestic arrived in the system within the hour, and as did Vader aboard the Executor, his Super Star Destroyer.
Berrus ordered all fighters to hold of those of the Executor and Majestic, while Mu Squadron (consisted of TIE boarding crafts and TIE landing craft) shipped his Marines aboard the Emperor's ship. Vader contacted Marek and the Black Eights, ordering them to engage the Kuztin's fighters. They did so, attacking Mu Squadron's landers and boarding craft and engaging Nu Squadron's regular TIE fighters. They managed to destroy a quarter of the Mu Squadron transports, though another quarter was destroyed by Death Squadron fighters. A half still made it aboard the Majestic, attempting to fight through the Emperor's best crewmen and guards.
After about an hour of combat, most of Berrus' fighters were destroyed by loyalist Imperial forces, with Marek giving them heavy casualties. His vessel was boarded by the 501st Legion themselves, under the leadership of Vader. Fighting their way through little resistance, the 501st killed Berrus. His little rebellion was over.
In the Emperor's Service[]
Following the battle, Palpatine ordered Vader to transfer Marek, Mia, and a couple others to the elite Emperor's Sword squadron, serving the Imperial Palace Guard and Emperor's fleet. Vader reluctantly obeyed. Marek was made one of the two pilots of Emperor Palpatine's shuttle. His counterpart found it boring, but Marek took it with pride. He was proud that the Emperor deemed him skilled enough to be his personal pilot. For the most part, they were stationed on Imperial Center or the personal Star Destroyer of Palpatine, the Majestic. Both Marek and the other pilot agreed that it was an impressive craft, having much more advanced technology than standard Lambda-class T-4a shuttles.
Marek, as an official member of the Palace Guard, flew the shuttle in formation with other advanced shuttles (such as Darth Vader's shuttle) in parades on Imperial Center, including the daily Changing of the Imperial Guard. He informed his parents of the new posting, who continued to be proud of him. Zellos, his father, said hearing of his exploits made him wish that he stayed in the Imperial Army longer than he did. Eventually, Palpatine had Marek and the other shuttle pilot take them to the second Death Star in orbit of Endor.
Battle of Endor[]
Marek (right) flying Palpatine's shuttle.
This is the shuttle of His Majesty Emperor Palpatine, requesting permission to dock.
—Marek to Death Star II control
Marek, and the rest of the Emperor's fleet, escorted Palpatine to the Endor system, where the Death Star II battle station was being constructed. He landed the shuttle in one of the larger hangars, during the parade for the Emperor aboard the station. Shortly afterwards, Vader found him and told him there will be a battle soon, and that he had permission to use Vader's TIE Advanced. Marek thanked him for the honor, but then was confused. He wondered how Vader knew there would be a battle. He voiced the concern to a Sigma Squadron pilot in the same hangar, who said that it was a trap for the Rebellion.
Marek flying Vader's TIE Advanced x1 against Rebel X-wings.
The Rebellion did eventually attack. Marek was deployed with the rest of the starfighters and took the Rebel Command Fleet by surprise. Piloting his TIE Advanced, Marek easily preyed on unsuspecting Rebel fighters. However, he than noticed that several entered the infrastructure of the Death Star II. Marek attempted to follow them, but lost the Rebel pilots after making a wrong turn and ended up back in the battle. He helped TIE bombers destroy several MC80 cruisers, then noticed small explosions on the surface of the station. Marek could not believe that the Emperor's plan had failed, and told himself they were simply just B-wings bombing the surface.
Marek continued fighting, but then noticed the Death Star explode. Completely shocked, he then took out his rage by destroying several fighters who made it out of the station. When Captain Pelleon gave an order to retreat, he used the fighter's hyperdrive to follow the main fleet. Docking aboard his ISD, Marek could not believe the Emperor was actually dead.
Post-Endor[]
No, no, NO! The Emperor will return! He's . . . immortal.
—Marek after the disastrous Battle of Endor
After the disaster at Endor, Marek joined Gilad Pellaeon and his forces at Annaj, the nearest sector capitol. There, he witnessed multiple officers abandon the main fleet and leave off to form their own warlord kingdoms. Marek angrily called the warlords traitors on the comms as their ships left the system, and the warlords saw it was coming from Vader's TIE. Some grew afraid and thought that Vader actually somehow survived, and decided to stay with the fleet. Out of disgust for warlords and respect for Pellaeon, he pledged allegiance to him.
As Pellaeon's best pilot, he served Grand Vizier Sate Pestage, recognizing him as the legitimate heir. He spent a six scant months on the throne, and was replaced by Director of Imperial Intelligence Ysanne Isard. Though he had no respect for her, he served Isard for two reasons. One was that Pellaeon did, and the second was that Pestage himself tried to join the New Republic. He fought to unite the fracturing remnants of the Empire, but in the end, they barely gained anything. However, Pellaeon then announced delightfully that there was one Grand Admiral still alive, and they went to met up with him.
Thrawn Campaign[]
Early stages[]
The New Republic is not appeasing anyone. Even it's own citizens are disappointed in it's lack of progress and transparency, but the abundance of corruption. They are not a legitimate government. I am sure more worlds will join our cause upon the Republic's defeats.
—Marek during the campaign
After meeting Thrawn and his fleet from the Unknown Regions, Pellaeon was made second in command of their unified fleet. Thrawn still remembered Marek, and asked Pellaeon about him. He was delighted to hear that the pilot was with them, and placed Marek in command of Cloak Squadron, his fleet's primary TIE unit. As they prepared for attacks on outlying border worlds in the New Republic (though he refused to acknowledge them as a legitimate government and called them "Rebs"), Marek trained the Cloaks in various systems. He trained them in various tactics and shared experiences with them. Some of them were veteran TIE pilots of the Galactic Civil War, but the majority were new guys, some of which were even forcefully drafted. Because of that, he personally talked to each one and trained them, boosting their confidence and morale. By the time Thrawn decided to strike, Marek stated he would fight the famous Rogue Squadron along side the Cloaks.
Cloak Squadron engaging New Republic fighters at Sluis Van shipyards, led by Marek.
They then made a strike on the Bpfassh, in which Marek and the others scored multiple kills. The New Republic was taken off guard, and was defeated there. The strike paralyzed their new government, making them aware of the Empire's resurgence. Next, Marek led the Cloaks as a distraction during a mission to Nkllon to capture mole miners for a future attack. No casualties were taken, and the miners were successfully acquired.
Thrawn then ordered an attack on the Sluis Van shipyards. During the attack, his squadron took the defenders by surprise, coming out of an A-class freighter that passed through security. Marek scored several kills, though several pilots were lost. They provided cover for the planted mole miners to break into New Republic warships and allow Marines to take control of them. The plan was thwarted, however, when Lando Calrissian activated the miners (as they were originally his) which caused the destruction of the captured ships. Thrawn deemed it as a minor set back, but Marek did not agree as he lost multiple Cloaks during the fight.
New Position[]
Lieutenant Vaiken, you have been given a mission of outmost importance.
—Thrawn to Marek
After the battle at the Sluis Van shipyards, Thrawn had a new idea. He recovered the TIE Manufacturing Station in the Taspan system, an automated factory that was used to make advanced TIE-series fighters. He elevated Marek to the rank of colonel and gave him command of a new unit of elite ace pilots: Storm Squadron. The unit was to secretly strike various planets using the Star Destroyer Majestic (with a skeleton crew) to get around, and remain unaffiliated with Thrawn's forces officially. They would raid vital Republic convoys, destroy shipyards and factories, sabotage warships and space stations, etc. They would only use nicknames to communicate (Marek being "Wampa"), and try to use modified fighters that would stick in people's memories and be easy to remember.
Thrawn wanted to spread around the reputation of the squadron, having them take down sensitive Republic targets and be feared by the citizens of it. They would never engage in large, full-scale battles, or talk of anything that tied them to the main force of the Empire. Virtually a guerrilla group. Marek was placed in command, and was allowed to personally select pilots for it. Firstly he asked Mia, then got several other from Cloak Squadron and other units. Pellaeon supported the idea, mockingly calling them the "Empire's Rogue Squadron". He hoped to someday meet the legendary Rogues in combat, and defeat them.
Battle of Javin[]
Marek in his TIE Advanced.
Cover me, Mauler!
—Marek to squad mate Max Mithel ("Mauler")
The planet of Javin, in the Javin system, was their first target. It was the site of Outpost D-34, originally an Imperial Customs checkpoint but was captured by the Republic. The Majestic entered the edge of the system, then slowly neared the station. The Majestic's turbolasers provided a small screen of fire at the outpost as the squadron disembarked the Star Destroyer. Though it was taken by surprise, several X-wings and one A-wing were deployed. Marek destroyed two X-wings before proceeding to the station itself, as his Advanced x1 was equipped with heavy torpedoes. The rest of the squad handled the fighters, while his squad mates Elesk Nerwal, piloting a TIE Interdictor, and Zan Harrsk, piloting a Scimitar assault bomber, made bombing runs.
Marek aided them with his torpedoes, firing at the control center of the outpost. It destroyed the center, killing the officers inside. Marek then began prowling for any other Republic fighters that escaped while his comrade bomber pilots finished off what remained of the outpost. The rest of the squad handled every other fighter, and they went back to the Majestic. Their Star Destroyer then retreated to the TIE Manufacturing Station, an automated orbital TIE factory which was designated as their headquarters.
Intermission[]
Satine Skirata: “Isn't this a major population center?”
— Marek and squad mate Satine Skirata
Marek Vaiken: “Yes, but these are all traitors to the Empire. And anyways, the enemy base is in a more remote neighborhood.”
After regrouping, Marek and the others reloaded their TIEs for the next mission. The rest of the squad rested in the small, hastily installed crew quarters (since it was an automated factory), while Marek reported to Thrawn of their success. He approved of it, and told him his spies were spreading rumors of Storm Squadron across New Republic space. Thrawn also said that Jedi clone Jorus C'baoth that he employed learned of Marek and his Force-sensitivity, wanting to train him as an apprentice. The Chiss told him that Marek was on an important and classified mission, keeping the Jedi away. Marek thanked the Grand Admiral, who then gave them their next mission: destroy a Republic base on Trantor.
The station.
He then went to the crew quarters and informed them of their next mission. Trantor was a metropolitan planet in the Core Worlds. By striking it, they would instigate terror into the hearts of the Republic citizens, knowing that the Empire can hit even the planets near the capitol. He himself was uncomfortable with it, though they would be hitting a military base, it would undoubtedly kill civilians. Before, as a young recruit, he did not care for those issues but by then he matured. One Mandalorian pilot, a female named Satine Skirata, brought up the issue. Marek told her it was for the good of the Empire, then tried to convince himself of the same thing.
Battle of Trantor[]
Did I have any private, traitorous thoughts? Perhaps, but I never said a word. Not on the flight to Trantor, not when we navigated through the city, and not when we bombed the garrison base. Not a word.
—Marek recalling the battle
The squad then boarded the Majestic, which sat in orbit of the TIE station. They then went to the Trantor system, determined to complete the mission successfully as before. After entering the system, they managed to bypass the single MC40A light cruiser that acted as the system's defense. Marek led the squad in a column down to the surface of the planet, past all of the orbital stations, then through the maze of skyscrapers. Flying through, they finally reached the garrison base of the New Republic Army. It was in a small, run down neighborhood.
To start off, Marek and the other pilots fired off all of their rockets into the main buildings. They blew up in flames. Then they proceeded to strafe the remains, destroying perimeter walls and outlying buildings. The army did not have any New Republic Starfighter Corps ships there, as they were all aboard the orbiting cruiser. Marek's attack remained unchallenged, as they were unable to report the incident to the authorities. He had doubts, but did not dare to voice them even though he was sure the others did as well. He told himself that sometimes extreme measures had to be taken in war as he noticed several skyscrapers nearby that fell as a result of their bombardment.
Before anyone could report anything, Marek and the rest of Storm Squadron retreated back to the Majestic. The Star Destroyer had no problem out running the MC40A light cruiser, and was able to make a hyperspace jump to the lifeless Dominus system, where their station was located.
News from Bilbringi[]
After arrival, the squad returned to the station. Marek attempted to contact Thrawn and tell him of their victory, but got no response. He then went to the control room of the station and used it's long range comms to hail his flagship, the Chimaera. Pellaeon answered, and told him that Thrawn died. Killed by his own Noghri bodyguard, Rukh. Marek was angry, asking if the bodyguard was dead. He viewed Thrawn as the Empire's last hope. The worried captain informed him that Rukh was killed by stormtroopers. He then informed Marek that the fleet was going to retreat to the Unknown Regions, as there was no way to win the battle at Bilbringi without Thrawn's genius.
Marek informed the rest of the squadron of what he had been told of. He got a mixed response. Mia was silent. Max "Mauler" and Elesk "Easy" were angry that their last hope was gone. His third in command Shinji Sakai ("Saburo") was speechless. Marek's old Black Eight squad mate Raslan Muskov ("Vukovich") had an inquisitive look, probably already calculating what it meant for them and what they could do. Zan Harrsk ("Scimitar") tried to cheer everyone up, claiming that the Empire was not dead. Vizor Yorr ("Phantom") looked emotionless and simply stated they should regroup with Pellaeon and await further orders. Satine "Saber" said that they could use their skills and assets to become bounty hunters.
Marek was slightly cheered up when he noticed of their input. It made them realize how he had some of the best people to work with on the Empire. He was about to say something when an alert came from the communications room, so he excused himself to check. And he could not have been any happier. It was the reborn Palpatine, in a clone body, giving the order for all loyal forces to retreat to Byss in the Deep Core. Informing the others, he had to play the message for them as they did not believe Marek at first. Amazed, they agreed to go. Boarding the Majestic, they departed to Byss.
Operation Shadow Hand[]
A Talk With Palpatine[]
Emperor Palpatine: “Good, Colonel Vaiken. You are still loyal to me after all of these years, as your ancestor was to his Sith Emperor. This has not gone unnoticed. You shall be rewarded.”
— Marek and the reborn Palpatine
Marek Vaiken: “Thank you, Your Majesty. But serving the Empire is it's own reward itself.”
Emperor Palpatine: “Nonsense. I know you honestly feel that way, but nonetheless, you shall become an unofficial member of the Dark Side Elite, my cadre of Dark Jedi. You will lead Dark Squadron, the pilots of the Elite and some of the best aces in the galaxy.”
Marek Vaiken: “As you wish, sire.”
Upon registering their arrival on Byss, Storm Squadron was sent to the Emperor's Citadel. While the squadron was briefed by an Imperial briefing officer, the Emperor wanted to talk to Marek personally. As he went to the Emperor's throne room, Marek felt a bit nervous. The last time he saw the Emperor was on Imperial Center after he was awarded with the Emperor's Will medal. He had no idea of what Palpatine would want to speak to him for, much less remember the pilot.
Marek confronted by Palpatine and Dark Side Elite.
After entering the room and bowing, Palpatine informed him of what was happening. He planned to retake the Core, as the New Republic Navy was thinning itself out in the Outer Rim. He then explained the real reason for the summoning, which was to acknowledge his loyalty and make him a secret member of his Dark Side Elite. He would command the elite Dark Squadron, of which the rest of Storm Squadron would also become members of. It personally served the Elite, and carried out missions for the Emperor as well. Marek stated he was honored by required no such reward as serving the Empire was a reward itself. Palpatine was surprised as he read Marek's mind that the pilot was serious. He noted Marek's lack of ambition but abundance of loyalty for the future.
He sent off Marek with his new position back to the Byss Cargo Terminal to regroup with Dark Squadron and his original Storm pilots. There, they met Executor Sedriss, the Supreme Commander of the Imperial Armed Forces.
Battle of Coruscant[]
Marek's TIE Avenger, the Gamma One.
Any traitors will be eliminated.
—Marek after the split
As the Republic fleets went further and further into the Outer Rim, the Core Worlds were relatively undefended. Palpatine ordered an attack on them, and Coruscant, from the Deep Core. Marek and Dark Squadron was sent directly to Coruscant to help in the invasion, though mainly to provide aerial support as there were no ships in orbit. As the squadron was deployed, they met virtually no resistance and headed to the surface. For the most part, they made strafe runs on enemy targets. Marek noted the high civilian count and told himself to be careful.
He mainly assisted ground forces by strafing important targets, including various government buildings. When a group of Republic officials attempted to escape aboard the Millennium Falcon, he was ordered to pursue, but lost them. He was then recalled to the Star Destroyer Vanguard. For the rest of the assault, he remained aboard the ship.
However, when a battle broke out between various Imperial traitorous factions, Marek personally flew a TIE Avenger and did not hesitate to kill any Imperial pilots who have joined warlords. The rest of his squadron, who were split up, did the same. Some simply went aboard the loyalist Vanguard. The Emperor called it "culling the weak". After the battle, Marek and his squad were recalled for defensive duty as part of Byss Security.
Final Death of Palpatine[]
Marek spent his days training Dark Side Elite how to pilot starfighters. What annoyed him was that he was separated from Mia. He also found it very boring to just be stationed in the Deep Core doing virtually nothing as the rest of the military advanced through the galaxy, reconquering much of the Empire's lost territory. Marek also wanted to accompany the Emperor aboard his Eclipse I and Eclipse II dreadnoughts.
Finally, he heard of the Emperor's death at Onderon and the destruction of the Galaxy Gun as well as Byss. The Emperor's final death shocked him, leaving him with nothing better to do other than await the rise of a new leader. That never came. He eventually joined Crimson Command, the largest splinter faction in the Deep Core under Treuten Teradoc. He heard of Marek's skill, and gave him a promotion to general.
Defender of the Empire[]
Marek continued serving Teradoc, though hated warlordism. He was glad when he heard Admiral Natasi Daala was trying to unify it. When Pellaeon attacked the forces of Blitzer Harrsk, he flew in the operation. But in the end, Daala ended up stopping the fighting and got Harrsk and Teradoc to unify. The attempt did not work, so Daala, Pellaeon, and Marek talked of a plan in a secluded area away from the funding warlords. They decided to invite the most powerful warlords to a conference, and agree on something. Daala gave both him and Pellaeon gas masks, telling them they will know when to use them
The warlords all arrived to the space station where it was to take place. After three hours of feuding and arguing, they could not agree on anything. Marek then realized what her ultimate plan was. He managed to put on the gas mask with Pellaeon as a toxic gas flooded the chamber, killing all of the warlords. They then set out to unite the former splinter forces. A few resisted and were destroyed, but most willingly joined. While Daala got a Super Star Destroyer as her flagship, Pellaeon commanded forty-five Imperial-class Star Destroyers, another officer named Colonel Cronus commanded the hundred-twelve Victory I-class Star Destroyers, and Marek commanded the starfighter corps. At the same time, he was given a membership in Daala's escort squadron, the elite Emperor's Shield. He was glad to see Mia there as well.
Continued Campaigns[]
Marek in his custom TIE Avenger, Gamma One, destroying a traitorous one.
Marek continued to fight as the Empire dwindled. Though he scored several victories, the Empire was still dying to the Republic. Daala ended up resigning, and Emperor's Shield flew for Pellaeon. Due to the demand for elite pilots, they saw plenty of action. It became problematic though when different Moffs demanded that the squadron be stationed in their sector for defense. However, the now-Admiral Pellaeon did not let it come to that. By that point, the Empire was reduced to a mere eight backwater sectors along the edge of the Unknown Regions, and Marek's trust in the Empire recovering began dwindling.
Pellaeon then pushed for peace, telling the Moffs that a peace treaty was needed to keep the new Imperial Remnant from collapsing. They eventually agreed, though later a conspiracy was uncovered to depose of Paelleon by Dirsa, a Moff, and another person. It was quickly ended, with some New Republic help, and thus the negotiations went on. The Republic and Empire were at peace, with several deals.
Eventually, the Empire of the Hand, Thrawn's government in the Unknown Regions, came and joined the Remnant.
Early Yuuzhan Vong War[]
Lemme describe a Vong jockey for ya. A disgusting, mindless creature stuffed into a piece of crap that passes off as a fighter to them.
—Marek to a squad mate
In 25 ABY, a species from another galaxy known as the Yuuzhan Vong attacked. They were a biological, anti-technological race that travelled the intergalactic void for thousands of years. Initially, the New Republic ignored them and thus Marek learned very little. However, he flew scout sorties into territory that they were known to have lost communications with. What he found disturbed him, though he did not even see the main force.
The Republic tried to get the Imperials to join them in the war effort, though as much as Pellaeon argued with the Moffs, they refused. He then had Emperor's Shield fly secretly outside of the law and aid the Republic in battle. Marek and his comrades liberated Akuria II, Mindor, Zaadja, and several other planets in heated battles. He was disgusted by the Vong, and had no respect for them at all. Marek was shocked to find that several of his squad mates were simply afraid of them, and explained to the pilots that in space, the Vong were heavily outmatched by them.
Late Yuuzhan Vong War[]
In the next several key battles (though by that point, the Empire officially joined the Republic in the war), Marek and the others proved to be very effective against Vong pilots. However, after Coruscant fell to them, he feared the worst. However, Marek did not show his fear for the sake of the morale of his pilots. Instead, they attacked more aggressively, laying waste to Vong supply convoys and small task forces. Bastion then temporarily fell, and Emperor's Shield helped retake it.
Eventually, after more fighting, Coruscant and Bastion were liberated. The Vong ended up being ultimately defeated, running out of reinforcements and supplies (largely due to Marek's raids). Celebrating their victory with a massive parade on Bastion, Imperial morale was sky high as they drove surviving remnants into the Unknown Regions.
Later Service[]
Good work, Admiral.
—Jagged Fel to Marek
Following the Vong war, Marek was promoted to Vice Admiral and was given command of the Omicron, a Star Destroyer. Marek married Mia on Bastion, who took up a government position. He continued serving under Pellaeon, and fought in the Second Galactic Civil War on the side of the Galactic Federation of Free Alliances. It was ruled by Darth Caedus, a Sith Lord, so the Remnant ended up joining the Jedi Coalition. After Pellaeon was killed by Tahiri Veila, Marek was angered, as he viewed the admiral to be another Thrawn. Marek fought for the Jedi side until Caedus was killed by his sister Jaina Solo.
After the Second Civil War, he continued serving the new leader Jagged Fel as a full admiral. During the crisis with the Lost Tribe of Sith, he fought against their forces at Coruscant. Following the crisis, he was given the rank of Grand Admiral. Jagged explained it was less for his work during the crisis but more for the fact that he served the Empire with extreme loyalty for over forty years. His wife was soon afterwards given the rank of Moff for similar reasons, and was put in charge of the Thuris sector. As a result, Marek commanded the Thuris Sector Fleet.
In 76 ABY, Marek died of old age at 83 years old. His legacy was carried on by two children, Orlock Vaiken Stele and Kaiser Vaiken Stele.
Personality & Traits[]
Marek Vaiken Stele, Defender of the Empire.
Marek was highly devoted to the Empire. Though he had fears, Marek noted all of them seemed to disappear when he was working for the Empire. He was, for the most part, unambitious, and only expected to serve a few missions before death. He never expressed desire for leadership or higher rank. However, that slightly changed by the time of his first several promotions and a position on Vader's elite squad. Palpatine, upon reading his mind, discovered that he was being honest when he said that serving the Empire was it's own reward. That highly surprised him, thinking Marek only said that to gain his praise.
He found himself not showing any fear that he did have for the sake of his squad mates' morale. Though Marek realistically had no fear of the Vong, seeing them as "insect garbage". His ferocity and lack of fear of death raised the morale of his pilots, causing them to fight harder and take more risks. Marek was always extremely proud of his service to the Empire, and his dedication eventually earned him the rank of Grand Admiral.
Talents & Abilities[]
A skilled pilot. See to it that he joins my personal squadron.
—Palpatine
Marek was known as a skilled pilot. He often attributed it to the Force, as his family did not have a history of flying spacecraft. However, Vader noted he seemed to have a natural ability in piloting. He was not very skilled with other Force moves, such as Force Choke and Force Push, and never used them.
Awards & Achievements[]
The Emperor's Will, highest military decoration in the Empire.
In service of the Empire for over 40 years, Marek went up the ranks and eventually became a Grand Admiral. He also became a known ace pilot, gaining over 90 total kills by the time he became an admiral. In his time, he earned multiple Imperial Medals, including the Imperial Medal of Accomplishment, Imperial Medal of Loyalty, Imperial Medal of Order, Imperial Medal of Unity, Imperial Medal of Skill, and Imperial Medal of Victory. Most notably, however, Marek achieved the Emperor's Will, a medal awarded by Emperor Palpatine himself at the Imperial Palace for outstanding deeds to the Empire.