A galaxy divied by war. The Separatists are expanding and growing stronger each day. Senator Cari Bhade of Anu journeys to Diran in hopes of securing an alliance. Jedi Generals Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker are accompanying her. Unknown to them, however, is that Count Dooku and General Greivous are already at Diran, also seeking an alliance.

Cari, Obi-Wan, and Anakin followed their escourt to the throne room.

"Ah, Senator Bhade and Generals Skywalker and Kenobi. It is a pleasure to meet you," the king said.

"The pleasure is ours, Your Majesty. We have come to ask you to join the Republic."

The king nodded.

"Yes, I know. However, Count Dooku has asked me to join the Separatists. He has promised protection for my people."

"Dooku never means what he says!"

Obi-Wan pulled Anakin back and gave him a disapproving look.

"We shall hold negotiations tomorrow."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

They were led to their prepared rooms by some guards and encountered Dooku and General Grievous on the way.

Dooku, who had been telling Grievous something, stopped in mid-setence and mid-stride when he saw Cari.

"Senator Bhade. What a pleseant surprise," he said, quickly recovering from his shock.

"Hello, Count Dooku," Cari answered.

There was brief and slightly awkward pause, and the guards led Cari, Obi-Wan, and Anakin to their rooms.

********

"Why didn't you contact me to tell me you were coming?" Dooku asked Cari an hour later in her room.

"Because I didn't know you were here until the king told us."

Dooku gave a frustrated groan.

"This could ruin everything if Kenobi, Skywalker, Grievous, or anyone here finds out about us."

"You think I don't know that?!" Cari snapped at the older man.

She turned her back to him and a moment later felt the heat of his body envelop her and his arms wrap around her waist.

"All I'm saying, darling, is that we have to be careful."

She sighed and leaned against him.

"I know, Tyln. No one can know that we're married."

He kissed her neck.

"Exactly."

The Count then released her and stepped back.

"I must go now. I'll see you at dinner."

Cari turned to him.

"Come to my room tonight?"

"I shall try."