— - - —
Chapter 2
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Anticipation coursed through the greeting party at Alderaan's Royal Palace Hangar. Laced with uncertainty and fear. The Imperial Prince had a reputation much like Starkiller's and the Emperor. The Emperor was cold, demanding and physically hated both Rebels and failures.
But, regardless of what she was anticipating, the Prince was here on business. Big time Imperial business. He was not to be trifled with, and the Queen had made that aspect clear as as a sunny day to those soldiers and Nobles here to greet the Prince. Any hints of suspicion on anyone, guilty or not, gave Prince Skywalker the grounds to detain and interrogate.
Basically meaning that if he didn't like you, he'd kill you and burn the Palace to the ground.
It was what the Empire did, after all.
She stood straight, hands clasped behind her back standing in the center of a small entourage of acclaimed Noble Household Heads. To her left stood Tesh Organa, a General of Alderaan's rather small military force, which they called the Noble Guard. He was the Military Liaison to the High Council. To his left stood his father; Gioni Organa who was the Vizier of Alderaan. To Leia's far right was Deara Antilles, her aunt and primary adviser to the woman to Leia's direct right.
Breha Organa. Queen of Alderaan and subsequently, the acting leader of Alderaan in Bail's absence.
All of these individuals lived in the palace, but were rarely seen together outside of important meetings. The Imperial Prince- well, more like the terrorism responsible for his presence, surely brought together the most important people on Alderaan.
Leia watched as the shuttle steadily docked in the Hangar bay, thoughts beginning to wander. She'd never seen Luke outside of the HoloNet, still images and a few videos of Emperor Vader speaking with Luke standing to his right. There were the few times that Luke held press conferences to address some sort of attack or investigation. Once and a while, he'd go to Senate hearings and explain a particular act of violence he'd committed - not like he'd ever be convicted of anything...
But Luke's public speeches were always so smoothed over, just like any public speech made by Vader or Starkiller. He was still very much a mystery to Leia.
She could still feel him as clear as day through the Force. He was hard to miss, and felt like a camp fire on Illum. She could sense his pent up aggression, the anger lay in wait like a sleeping monster hidden deep within just waiting to be released so it may devour everything it touched.
Another layer persisted inside of him, however. Something she couldn't really describe nor clearly sense… it was like a depraved hatred lurked in his subconscious. As if the very incarnate of evil found refuge deep inside of Luke's soul.
It terrified her the moment she noticed it.
Luke was strong to hide that so effectively.
As Luke's ship landed, she felt his presence reach out and scan those in the hangar. His heat almost physically burned her.
She could only frown. His anger was powerful enough to make her hope dwindle. This would be her only chance to prove Obi Wan wrong.
Luke was able to be saved, she just knew it.
Her thoughts were cut off by the hissing of the ship releasing its pressurized oxygen and the ramp lowering ever so slowly.
She cringed at the sight of four of the standard Imperial High Command escort; the Death Troopers. They always meant trouble.
But, instead of panic, she merely trusted herself to remain calm and vigilant. She did not train to become a Jedi Apprentice only to be discovered and captured this early into her career.
Leia's heart clenched as she saw the first glimpse of her estranged brother in eighteen years - not like she remembered him from that far back…
His blonde hair was slicked back, appearing a bit darker than she would've pictured, shaved on the sides. Like his father, he was dressed in black attire, leather gloves and boots, an unmarked officer's jacket over black pants, outfit covered with plates some sort of lightweight metal. Armor. The more she observed him, the more of it she saw covering his chest and shoulders. The Prince lacked the distinguished cape his father had, but the attire was generally the same. Metals were different, that much Leia could see. Luke opted for a more practical approach. Lightweight material that allowed freedom of movement.
And then there was the metallic cylinder hanging from his belt. The Prince's lightsaber. And in typical Royal fashion, it's design was spared no expense. She could recognize electrum from a mile away. She actually wished to see it up close. It looked like a wonderful piece of art.
If only it wasn't used to carry out such destruction.
She had to admit, Luke Skywalker was a handsome boy. She couldn't have been more proud of that aspect. In her daydreams, she pictured herself chasing off all of the sleazy girls who threatened to corrupt him. Her lips curled upward for a mere moment.
The smile was immediately wiped off of her face when she felt the Prince's gaze fall on her. She nearly blushed. He sensed her amusement instantly…
That shouldn't have been possible. She must've let her barriers slip.
Luke approached with a young woman walking by his side.
"Prince Skywalker." Her adopted mother came to the rescue. Breha walked slowly toward the Prince, bowing at the waist. "It's a pleasure to have you on the planet. If only the circumstances weren't so grave." She said forlornly.
Luke's gaze peeled away from Leia. "Don't worry, your Highness. My finest people are on this case. We'll find those responsible, I assure you." He smiled in a way that asked her to cheer up. He walked the rest of the way down the ramp. "You shouldn't have made my arrival a party."
The Queen merely chuckled. "I told them it would be too much," she playfully glanced at Leia "but the Princess insisted you be greeted with all the respect you deserve."
Luke's gaze found Leia's once more.
Her blush was well hidden, and then quickly abolished. She was Princess Leia Organa of Alderaan. She would not appear weak in front of anybody. Least of all her own brother.
She strolled forward, head raised high and smiled at the Prince. "Your Highness." She greeted with a tilt of her head.
Luke's eyebrow rose just a bit at Leia's reluctance to bow to him. His head tilted in suite. "Your Highness." He smirked as if there was an inside joke between the two, which surprised her. So he had a sense of humor at least.
"The Princess will act as a liaison between your investigation and the Alderaan High Council." Breha explained. "General Tesh will provide you with any military support you should require." The Queen motioned for Luke to follow her out of the Hangar bay, and the two walked side by side with her entourage following closely. "You have our full support in finding and capturing the terrorists, however, your military interests cannot be backed by solely me without full disclosure." She glanced at Luke.
The Prince shifted slightly. "I am grateful for your cooperation, Your Highness." Luke began. "But unfortunately I'm bound to secrecy for the investigation's sake. I'm here on business for High Command at my father's request."
The Queen merely nodded. "That's unfortunate." She spoke. "I'm unable to provide the necessary resources for whatever this operation of yours entails without information on what exactly it has to do with Alderaan. All we wish, for now is that the terrorists responsible for this… this barbaric attack are brought to justice."
Luke figured as much. No matter how much his father tried to gain absolute control over the individual systems, they maintained their rights, and even with his position and status, Luke had no way of pulling strings as high up as Sectoral Governors. The Moffs were the only power in existence that could suspend planetary rights outside of his father. Even they had to explain themselves to the Senate. "I appreciate the thought. This operation has to be handled delicately as it is, I only ask that the local law enforcement works with me in this matter."
Breha turned to face forward as they continued to walk, now entering the main hallway of the Palace. As lavish as it was, Luke had to admire the craftsmanship. This planet was one of artists, it showed in their architecture. Elegance and beauty was the only way to describe the Royal Palace. "As long as their involvement will not infringe on our Constitution, you'll have their support, My Lord." Breha answered before coming to a stop. Luke's gaze fell back on her. "For right now, I suggest you acquaint yourself with your new environment." She smiled. "Tomorrow, the General will retrieve you so you may brief him on your plans."
Luke nodded. He motioned toward Ruryi. "Your Highness, this is my colleague, Senior Special Agent Ruryi Jy'tha."
The women exchanged nods of acknowledgment.
"Agent Jy'tha will be working closely with me on this matter. She will frequently act as my advocate."
The Queen smiled in understanding. "Very well, Prince Skywalker. Princess Leia will show you to your quarters and introduce you to the security staff. Bail has agreed to allow you to conduct your work from his study."
Luke glanced at Ruryi and motioned for her to start her work.
He bowed at the waist once more. "You've been very helpful and understanding. I am grateful. Together, well put an end to Rebel activity on your peaceful planet..." He trailed off for a moment, staring up the stairwell as a strange feeling washed over him through the Force. He shook it off. "I'll see to it Alderaan is given the proper credit for its role in this investigation, and rewarded accordingly." He turned back to her and gave a smile.
"Of course, My Lord. I leave you in the Princess's capable hands." She smiled, tilting her head as she spun around and began to leave, her entourage following save for the Princess and Luke's squad of Death Troopers.
Luke's attention turned back toward the stairs, the residual warmth through the Force barely wearing thin.
"Your Highness?" The Princesses voice snapped him out of his reverie.
He turned to her. "Apologies." That same smile formed on his lips. "After you. Your Highness."
A light smile appeared on her lips as she turned and began walking up the large staircase. Her nerves became frayed, she could sense Luke's eyes on her, his presence scanning her over. It was as if he wasn't trying to figure her out. She felt his presence lightly touch the barriers in her mind, and sudden curiosity shot through him.
The reached the top of the stairs in what seemed like the longest walk Leia had ever been on before mustering up the courage to speak. She cleared her throat. "Your quarters will be down the hallway from mine." She glanced at him before continuing.
"Oh, my! Imperial Prince Skywalker!" The golden protocol droid walked out of Leia's room at hearing the voices, and made its way toward the pair. The droid bowed politely. "It's a great pleasure to meet you, Your Highness! I am C–3PO; human-cyborg relations and personal servant to Princess Leia."
Said Princess sighed. Both she and Luke were embarrassed for her. "Thank you… Threepio…" She said, "That will be all."
"Oh, but Princess, I have yet to see to Master Luke's belongings." He protested.
"Then see to them." She irately snapped through her teeth.
"Of course, Princess. Master Luke, it was a pleasure to meet you." He bowed once more and began to walk passed Luke, pausing and staring up at Death Troopers for a moment. "Oh... goodness me!" He carefully stepped around the soldiers.
Luke just smiled, amused at the entire ordeal. "He certainly has character." Luke chuckled once the droid had left.
She sighed. "He's… special"
"A special protocol droid?" Luke asked with a smile.
Leia nodded. "He breathes down my neck."
Luke chuckled lightly. "That's not always a bad thing."
"Perhaps. We'll see how you feel in a few days." She playfully said.
They came upon his room and Leia stopped. "This is you quarters. My bedroom is the one at the end of the hallway," she pointed, "and the second floor security mainframe is directly across from me. They'll be monitoring-"
"That won't be necessary." Luke cut in. "My guard will be taking over security for my stay."
She glanced at the intimidating troops. "I see." She spoke warily.
With a light wave of his hand, the troopers shuffled passed Luke and Leia toward the mainframe room.
Luke's eyebrow rose, and she continued walking, presumably to the security room. "How old are you?" He asked, seemingly out of the blue.
She glanced at him, uncomfortable with the question for some reason. "Eighteen, My Lord."
"And already given such a responsibility." He muttered. "Liaison."
She only smiled awkwardly.
"So I assume we'll be together for the majority of my stay." His voiced froze over at that, and she stiffened.
"My Lord?" She asked, regretting it the moment it came out. Her feigned confusion didn't even feel real to her.
"Liaison." He repeated with a displeased tone. "It's just a polite way of saying you'll be keeping an eye on me." He said, voice still cold and unhappy with the development. "You're afraid of what I may do, or… who might upset me."
She turned to him. "I assure you, My Lord-"
He held his hand up. "Please don't patronize me. I'm not as easily fooled as those officers this Palace has dealt with." He motioned with that same hand for her to continue walking. "I don't like being deceived. It's insulting."
She inaudible sighed. "That was never our intention." She spoke matter-of-factly. "May I be frank, My Lord?" He nodded. "Alderaan is a peaceful planet. This attack has enraged and frightened many of us. A vote is being held once my father returns on whether or not to give you and your men access to the Noble Guard's resources." She explained. "We want to find these terrorists and put them to justice as much as you do."
Luke's head tilted and his eyes narrowed.
"My mother was only following protocol when she denied you full support. Until the voting has concluded, I will be present to convey Imperial interests to the Council where my mother has permission to approve or deny. Eventually you won't need me to convey your interests, but I will be reporting on what resources you do use."
"I see." It made sense to Luke now, why the Queen expected him to refrain from work for tonight and resume when the Viceroy returned. Only he could give Luke full legal clearance to commandeer the Alderaanian military for this operation. "I apologize for my assumption, Your Highness." He smiled lightly at her.
"Please, don't call me that." She smiled at him.
He chuckled. "Only if you stop calling me "My Lord." He returned.
"Deal. Just call me Leia."
"Luke."
She resumed her pace and he followed. "So, Luke, you were sent here on a different mission, correct?"
Luke nodded.
"What can you tell me about this mission of yours?"
"Not much, I'm afraid. Everything is need-to-know." He returned.
She smirked. "And I don't need to know."
He nodded. "Smart." He teased.
She shrugged her shoulders. "I figured as much. Something that warrants the attention of the Imperial Prince must be terribly important."
Luke was surprised. She was mocking him. "Indeed." He simply responded. "If it wasn't terribly important, I'd send the help."
She glanced at him from the corner of her eyes, holding in a laugh.
He smiled in victory.
"I'm glad your people saw this threat enough to allow Alderaan's Noble Guard and High Council into openly working with me rather than against me."
She threw him a cautious look. "We are more than happy to oblige the Empire on serious security breaches and terrorist attacks." She quickly replied. "We only resist when we feel our rights are being infringed."
He gave her a very wary look, all traces of amusement gone. "Security breaches?" He quizzed.
She inwardly stiffened.
"What makes you assume my operation involves a security breach?" His voice was guarded.
She mentally berated herself at the slip up. She had to be more on guard with Luke. "You're... the head of the High Command Security Force. From what's been officially stated about Security Force's mandates to be, you're only deployed on missions pertaining to security breaches." She reminded with a slight smile. "Anyways, what else could possibly draw your direct attention to my planet other than a that? That's what your mandate is, right? Imperial security." She only hoped that was enough to throw him off.
He stared at her for a moment, his presence scanning her mind once more, searching for even a slight crack in her shields he could wiggle through. While that was a plausible observation on her part, something didn't feel right… "I suppose you're right." He finally said. "Shrewd observation." He praised.
"Hardly. I just have to to keep involved in politics if I want to be a Senator."
With a hiss, the door gave way to the room housing the security mainframe opened, and Leia's gaze moved upward.
Death Troopers escorted an all too familiar face and mop of auburn and gray hair with a beard to match. "Um-" She paled.
This move was brazen! How could he not tell her!?
Luke motioned for his troops to return to the mainframe.
"My Lord." The man bowed politely before turning to Leia and smiling in amusement. "I assume you're trying to introduce me to our guest?" The man asked. He turned to Luke, extending his hand. "The Princess seems to be so angry that she's gone into shock." He chuckled. Luke shook the man's hand. "My name is Ben, I'm the head of security for the whole Palace." Ben glanced over to Leia, who was now shooting the man death glares.
"What are you doing here?" She demanded through clenched teeth. "You were told the Prince's security team was taking over! Your presence is unnecessary!"
Luke was pressed to resist taking a step back at Leia's display of displeasure.
Ben arched an eyebrow. "Your father felt the safety of the Imperial Prince warranted my direct cooperation with his team." He elaborated. "It was a last minute post change, Princess, and I'm bound by his orders. I'm afraid you're stuck with me."
Leia's jaw clenched.
"Leia, it's fine." Luke spoke, only hoping he could calm her down. "I appreciate the concern. He'll be a great help to them."
She snapped out of her anger, gazing at Luke as if remembering he was there.
She sighed. "Sorry, Luke. I - I just hate being watched over like a treasure." She turned toward Ben. "Especially when my input is blatantly ignored."
"My presence will be invisible, My Lady and Lord, I assure you." Ben spoke, his smile ever present.
"See to it that it is." She glared.
"Prince Skywalker, the Viceroy has requested my full cooperation with you and your team. If I may make a formal request..."
Luke nodded.
"I would like to officially be placed on your team - in regards to the terrorist investigation. I've done a bit of searching myself, my skills and information may come of use to you."
Luke considered this for a moment. "Ben, was it?" The man nodded. "Present your findings to my agent. I'll have them vet you. Then we can talk about it."
"Of course, My Lord." Ben bowed. "Until then..."
Leia scowled at the man's back as he returned to the security room.
She envisioned this mess blowing up very quickly…
Ben - or Jedi Master Obi Wan Kenobi, rather - had better not be recognized or this entire ordeal would hit the fan very quickly. The last thing they needed was the Emperor to come here personally and force Leia and Obi Wan to flee the planet. That was the last thing she wanted!
And his being this close to Luke was dangerous. He could sense them if Obi Wan lost concentration for a second!
This was not good…
Not good at all.
— - - —
Keth Tendoora had been alive for such a long time that he'd witnessed three wars and two regime changes.
He'd witnessed Count Dooku betray the Republic and dissent from the Jedi Order to fund a mass exodus of Republic planets, forming the Separatist Alliance, which in turn started a war that shook the Galaxy.
He witnessed Chancellor Palpatine use the war so delicately and find every loophole in the constitution to seize all the powers of the Senate and the Courts for himself in the name of "peace." He was present the day that the Senate cheered for the formation of an authoritarian Galactic Empire. He remembered being proud of his new Emperor.
He'd been in meetings with the likes of Anakn Skywalker - dubbed Darth Vader, Moff Tarkin and Raith Seniar to discuss the funding and the technological capabilities of a weapon meant to destroy entire planets. He remembered being terrified of the Emperor's vision, and simultaneously, grimly impressed. He remembered being angered with Lord Vader, who was staunchly opposed to this devastating weapon.
Keth had witnessed Darth Vader build a power base of loyal followers in the form of Moffs, General's and Admirals - even the Director General of the ISB with the intentions of overthrowing the Emperor.
And he was there when the Emperor finally addressed this coup once it was too late. Keth was part of the Emperor's Contingency should Vader succeed.
And then, the Emperor ordered that a base be built on a planet that was unknown to the Galaxy. In this base, the Emperor stored weapons of horror to quell the uprising that was sure to follow Vader's "failed" revolution.
Keth remembered being sick to his stomach at what he saw in that base. The experiments... the technology... it was all horrifying. And yet... so endearing. The Emperor Palpatine saw passed the limitations of humanity and was willing to take measures no other person was willing to do.
Keth witnessed Lord Vader maneuver through the Empire very cleverly and orchestrate the circumstances for his Master's demise aboard the half-finished Death Star.
The following events were cleverly thought out.
His power base was placed in strategic positions to instantly de-militarize all of Palpatine's loyal pawns part of his contingency plan, even Keth was forced to relinquish his fleets. He addressed the Senate at weapon point, practically, and stated his reasonings for killing the Emperor.
Files from the ISB, assets spying on Palpatine's lackys and gathering an abundance of information on the Death Star. Information on the illegal ring of slavery the Emperor was using to build this monstrosity, and the funding received from the Black Sun. He revealed Palpatine's treachery regarding the Clone Wars, and had gotten physical evidence in the form of an old, mobile holo-table used by Viceroy Gunray that held a conversation detailing plans to start the war. He ousted conspirators and loyal pawns who got rich off of the wars, corporations who became giants because of it. And in a moment of humility, Darth Vader even admitted his involvement, and his naivety for being manipulated so easily.
The following weeks, Keth witnessed the Galaxy side with Darth Vader overwhelmingly.
Keth lived in fear afterward. He was part of the very few member of Palpatine's Contingency that wasn't immediately found out.
Both Keth and the members of the Shadow Council, those of Palpatine's inner circle tasked with carrying out the Contingency, found it best for Keth to disappear with the knowledge he had of the Emperor's Storehouse and continue to operate it from a safe distance.
Keth stayed silent about this secret base. He would die with it if need be.
And he continue. He and his family disappeared and lived comfortably for several years on a humble planet in humble village. He continued his work from there.
He always knew Lord Vader would try and find him and punish him as part of the Contingency. He knew if Vader found out about the Emperor's Storehouse, he would move to use those terrible weapons in the secret base.
He'd prepared for this.
Keth Tendoora wasn't lying when he told the young Sith Lord Starkiller that he wasn't afraid of him. Keth had stared into the eyes of Emperor Palpatine. He had witnessed death on a catastrophic scale. Treason and conspiracy. He had been captured once by Count Dooku long ago.
A mere child did not possess the ability to scare Keth Tendoora.
However, a dark feeling swept across the former Governor when the door to his interrogation cell hissed open. Two black armored troopers came inside and stood opposite each other, flanking the doorway.
The room felt like it physically darkened.
His steps were swift and filled with purpose. The thick, black cape over his shoulders flowed after him and then came to a calm rest at his calves when he came to a stop just inside the doorway. His blue eyes were like a frozen tundra, but they bore through Keth's skin like fire. His handsome, distinguished face took on an unnerving feel as it was set in a deep scowl.
Keth realized... Darth Vader definitely wasn't like the boy.
His posture said everything Keth needed to know. He was in charge here.
The Dark Lord gave the impression that he cared not for Keth's life. That he'd get what he needed no matter what the outcome was.
This man was indeed a leader. A fierce warrior. A terrifying foe.
Vader stepped forward and the door slid closed. "Governor Keth Tendoora." His voice was commanding as ever. He lacked the dark menace that the boy had, instead, his voice was filled with such justified confidence and a frightening charm. "You seem... unsettled." Vader taunted ever so lightly.
Keth couldn't even deny it. In fact, unsettled was putting it lightly. "Darth Vader." The former Governor held his own admirably. "What is it you wish to accomplish? I've nothing to tell you."
Vader stood resolute, staring at the man coldly. Uncaringly. "You would do well to remember what is at stake, General."
"Death does not frighten me, my friend. My life is no leverage against me."
"You assume too much." Darth Vader's eyes darkened. "You've left yourself vulnerable."
Keth watched as Vader walked passed the table in a steady pace. "Your thoughts. They linger on your family."
"I have no family." Keth firmly stated.
Vader glanced at Keth from his side.
"They died years ago."
The Dark Lord's silence was unnervingly tense.
He stood in front of Keth and gave a slight motion with his hand. A screen unlatched from the ceiling. The screen turned on.
Terror gripped the old Governor's heart.
There, in a dimly lit cell sat his wife and daughter chained to the floor, mouths covered with black cloths and both of their faces flushed red, eyes puffy and trailing tears down their cheeks.
How could this be!? He watched them escape!
"Don't to lie to me again." Vader lowly warned.
Keth frowned.
"I won't harm them." He added simply. "So long as you cooperate."
The aging man couldn't think properly through the shock that pulsated through his mind like a pounding bass drum. "How... how did-"
"That is irrelevant." Vader swiftly cut in.
Keth shook his head in disbelief. This was too surreal to be true. Like a vivid nightmare.
He then remembered the little speech Vader's apprentice had given...
Your colleagues lived their final moments in a terror and pain they couldn't possibly have imagined.
"No..." He shook his head, his eyes widened as desperation overcame him. He yanked on his restraints as he saw the boy slowly walk toward his family. "No!"
Keth Tendoora thrashed violently, tugging and pulling at his restraints, lunging and shifting in every direction.
"No! Run! Mina, RUN!" His scream of desperation was loud, shrill almost.
A volatile presence flooded the room.
Keth suddenly struggled for breath, his mouth opening wide, trying desperately to pull any oxygen in. His throat constricted and the restraints on the table vibrated.
Vader held his hand out almost lazily, his fingers curled inward.
And then, Keth's throat was released.
The Emperor's hand fell to his side.
Keth took in a much needed breath and coughed at the rough scratch in his throat.
"It is pointless to resist, Governor." The Dark Lord's tone felt, still so commanding and powerful. Still so confident.
Keth's eyes finally left the screen. Hate flooded his vision. "You deplorable creature!" He hissed out, words dripping with rage. "If you kill them, you will get nothing from me." He declared. "Do you hear me?! Nothing!"
"It is unwise to test me." Darth Vader retorted. "I do not make idle threats." He warned darkly. "You will tell me what I want to know or be responsible for your family's death."
Keth tugged at his restraints.
Vader's gaze lingered on his angry, reddened face for a long moment.
The Dark Lord turned. "So be it."
Keth's panicked eyes quickly went to the screen.
His wife and daughter's sobs seemed to stop, then pain overcome their expressions. Like his had moments ago, their faces and necks strained. Their eyes opened impossibly wide. His wife was the first to topple on her side, unable to grasp at the invisible force choking her. Mina soon followed.
"No..." Keth muttered. "No! Stop this! This is madness!"
Vader's chin rose while he squeezed Keth's family.
Tendoora thrashed in his restraints. "Vader! Enough! Stop this now!" The man screamed.
A moment later, he released them and gazed at the Governor.
They squirmed for a moment, coughing and convulsing from the pain they just endured.
"You're willing to cooperate?" The Dark Lord ominously asked.
"Yes! Yes!" Keth immediately shouted. "Just don't hurt them!"
"C-28." Vader spoke.
Keth's eyes widened. "What did you just say?"
"C-28." The Emperor repeated deliberately slowly.
Conflict burned in the Governor's eyes.
"C-28." Vader again said. "Tell me what it is."
"I-I..." Keth stumbled over his words. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Vader's face darkened considerably. "Is that so?"
"Lord Vader! I don't know what C-28 is!"
Keth's head suddenly smacked against the metal interrogation table with a loud thud. Vader leaned in close, his eyes burning red and yellow. "You're wearing my patience, Tendoora." The words were laced with clear irritation and hot rage. Though still an ominous calm. "The more you struggle, the worse this gets for you. I want to know what C-28 is and what it has to do with the Sacred Way Rebels!" The Dark Lord snapped.
Sudden pressure seemed to squeeze Keth's mind. It built rapidly and turned into a deep claw that dug itself right into his brain.
"Who!" Vader demanded seemingly out of the blue.
A scream tore through his throat. His scream died into a series of chokes and gurgles while he convulsed on the table. Once more, his eyes rolled into his skull. Saliva spat from his mouth.
It was over as quickly as it had begun, and Keth's head fell, his vision blurred dangerously and his chest heaved to ease the fire in his lungs.
Vader swiftly turned to address the guards with a nod. The door hissed open moments later revealing Starkiller. "Gallius Rax commissioned C-28 for Sidious. It's in the hands of the Sacred Way. Find out what it is and destroy it."
"What of Rax?"
"Leave him to me."
The apprentice nodded and turned away. The door shut tight.
"You will never win..." Keth struggled to even speak. He strained to raise his head and glare. "You cannot stop what is coming for you." The man exhaustedly mumbled.
A small, satisfied smirk peeked through Vader's emotionless expression. "We shall see."
Keth's attention went to the screen with Vader's.
"No..." His strength seemed to return, at least somewhat.
The Emperor rose his hand.
"No- NO!"
Keth watched his wife and daughter begin to stiffen once more.
"NOOO!"
The women thrashed on the floor, bodies twitching violently.
A primal, desperate scream echoed loudly through the room. Even passing stormtroopers stiffened in fear at the sounds they heard from inside that room.
And Keth could only watch, helpless to act. He struggled with every ounce of strength his old muscles could conjure.
And then... Vader's hand closed in a tight fist.
Keth's family's struggling stopped altogether.
Keth sobbed quietly. His hope falling with his tears.
"Why? Why, why, why?" He mumbled incoherently. "What have you done?" Despair filled his eyes as he gazed at Vader, tears streaming down his face. "Why?"
"To further weaken your resolve." Vader obliged in the darkest tone Keth had heard from a the man.
Vader walked to the door. It opened for him.
"They did not deserve this..." He sobbed, head dropping as he cried. "Please... please kill me..."
The Dark Lord glanced over his shoulder. "You will die." He assured darkly. "Only after your usefulness has worn off."
Keth stared at the man in pure disbelief.
Darth Vader left the room. The Death Troopers followed.
He left Keth utterly speechless as the door slammed shut behind him.
— - - —
Night had fallen on Alderaan bringing a light snowfall, and with it came the chill of winter. The Palace was quiet, tranquil even through the Force despite the urgency of this mission. Luke resigned himself to his quarters only an hour or so earlier, making use of Leia's Threepio droid to bring him his evening meal. He ate as he scanned over what he'd learned so far of the mission on his datapad, his eyes barely leaving the screen, only to shower and dress for bed. Even then, he sat with the lamps on, leaning against the bed rest staring wearily into the screen.
With the death of Roahin Skoche, their best lead was all but lost. He only hoped Tyrus came up with something they could use.
On the bright side, It was only the first day. Something would come up. Luke was sure of it.
The Imperial Prince sighed heavily.
He needed sleep.
Or meditation.
Or both.
Pushing himself back up, he placed his datapad on the nightstand and removed the undershirt he was in. Crossing his legs, his eyes closed, allowing his body to relax with a deep breath and the Force to sweep him up. His negative feelings would charge this meditation; anticipation, frustration and anger. He never lingered too far into the Dark Side. That never yielded positive results in his past, but he needed more focus and clarity. So he used it this time.
His mind swept through this palace, he found himself mapping the entirety of it, and pinpointing its occupants, memorizing each unique presence in the Force.
It seemed Leia was already asleep - along with most of the Palace's residence. Only his Death Troopers, the night guard and the General were still awake. But, he found himself drawn quickly to the Princess. Her presence in the Force was vibrant, warm and soft. Brushing against her mind, he once more found himself blocked by her impeccable shields. For someone with no Force Sensitivity, her will was like an iron wall. Even if she was Senstive, even his father would find a hard time breaking her. Her will was so strong that she unwittingly blocked out Luke's gentle prodding, whereas with most people, he could easily find kinks in their armor. Every person he'd met so far, he'd been able to read their foremost thoughts quite easily.
Just not Leia. She was interesting, that was for sure. Qualities he was able to see almost immediately were her passion for her beliefs, especially apparent in the way she defended her planet so quickly. She wasn't too keen on him, or the Empire, apparent in how she refused to fully bow to him upon his arrival like the rest. She had the audacity to look at him and inwardly laugh at something.
He wasn't offended, he was intrigued. It was refreshing, actually, meeting a girl his age of Noble descent who had a mind of her own, not blindly bowing and yearning for his affection. In fact, it was refreshing to even meet just someone who didn't see him for his position and title. She wasn't impressed with him. He liked it, because he was impressed with her either.
Her shrewd observations were a welcomed trait. Especially if she was to keep an eye on him during this operation. He could use her talents. She was obviously very observant, he could sense her intelligence from a mile away.
Maybe including her wasn't such a bad idea. Maybe even her head of security-
Security...
Luke's eyes opened at the thought. That guy - the head of Palace Security - he was nowhere in the Palace, where he should be. Ben, was it?
Suspicion creeped on the young Prince. Did he purposefully leave his post? If so, why? And why wouldn't his troopers report this?
His eyes moved to the door, curious suspicion peeked and rising steadily. His lightsaber was in his hand as he stood up from the bed and slowly walked toward the door, senses alert for any sort of danger - as completely unlikely as it was.
Why wasn't this Ben guy at his post? Was this simply incompetence? Or was this Ben guy up to something?
With the Force, he slowly and silently opened the door, stepping out into the dark hallways, staring down the hallway where the dark blue lights of the security room flooded the hallway with dim lights.
Then, a shadow strolled across the lights.
Luke's heart beat rose slightly in chest as Ben's head peaked out from the doorframe, and stared right at him.
What!? Luke's eyebrows furrowed as pure confusion set on him. This man - Ben - was completely invisible in the Force! Something Luke was told only highly trained Force users could accomplish.
Ben walked slowly toward Luke. "Something wrong?" His face was concerned, and Luke felt nothing through the Force, further surprising him.
For a living, breathing human being to be completely devoid of this was indeed insane. The creep of cold paranoia began to crawl up his spine.
The possibility of fighting a Jedi powerful enough to conceal his presence completely and still have the will to move freely was... actually, it was exciting.
Luke's grip on his saber tightened.
For Organa to so brazenly keep a Jedi as his head of security... to showcase him so openly in front of Luke was bold. Insulting even.
Unless Ben was here to assassinate him. Foolish as it was.
Luke's excitement rose at the challenge.
His fist squeezed the hilt of his blade, white knuckled. He would be damned before being unprepared in the face of a Jedi.
Blood red splashed ominously against the walls with an almost painfully loud snap-hiss.
The Death Troops piled out of the room, SE-14r blasters instantly trained on the man.
Fear flashed in Ben's eyes. "Woah-woah!" His arms rose in protest.
Luke's blade angled right at the man. "Who are you?" He quizzed, eyes narrowed.
"I- what?"
Luke's grip tightened. "Don't lie to me." Luke warned in a low tone. "Who are you?" His eyes narrowed dangerously.
"I-I'm Benjamin Thule of the house of Thule!" Ben quickly stammered. "Head of Palace Security for Princess Leia Organa - you know this!"
Luke scowled.
"It- it's true, I assure you!" Ben stammered, more confused than he was scared.
"You have no presence in the Force. Only myself, Jedi and Sith have the ability to disappear in the Force." Luke accused. "I know sensed you earlier." He stalked a step forward.
"What?" Ben asked, tossing Luke an incredulous look.
"Do not lie to me, Jedi." Luke's voice steeled over in cold, threatening warning.
"My Lord- I'm no Jedi, or... Sith, I assure you!" Ben stated. He lowered his hands very cautiously. "I'm going to reach behind my neck, and show you."
Luke only glared as Ben slowly reached back, pulling something. And suddenly, there it was. Ben's presence now radiated through the Force leaving Luke incredibly confused as Ben showed him a small device. "It's called an Evap Module - the late Emperor Palpatine developed it in the Empire's early years to help troopers to sneak up and ambush Jedi." Ben explained, a clear cautionary edge in his voice. "After the Jedi attack on this Palace, the Viceroy was given security clearance by Grand Moff Kazic to equip his security staff with them."
The Evap Mod flew into Luke's hand. Such a simple looking mechanism; a mere disk shaped thing with a short needle protruding when pressed down on.
Luke eyed the device, his own suspicion slowly dwindling, but his anger at his father rising. He'd read about the Jedi's attempt to kidnap the Princess sixteen years ago.
"It didn't even occur to me to explain its uses to you, for that I apologize, it's merely a precaution in these dangerous times." Ben continued.
Luke peered at Ben. "Is this the only one?"
"No... there's a case of them in the armory."
Luke's jaw tensed. "Bring them to me."
Ben only nodded, releasing a breath of his own.
"Never use these in my presence." The Prince suddenly took on a look that mirrored the dangerous side of his father. "Are there anymore surprises I should know about?" Luke harshly quizzed.
"None. I deeply apologize, My Lord."
He stared at Ben for a moment. "Return to your post." He ordered, his lightsaber extinguishing.
Ben nodded, cautiously turning to the troopers who lowered their weapons. All moved to resume their post save for one troop.
Luke shook his head.
"Did you know about these!?" He asked in a hiss to the shadow armored man.
"No, My Lord." The gargled electronic voice said.
Luke frowned. "Bring me all available information on them."
The troop saluted dutifully.
— - - —
"You look tired."
Luke stared at the Princess, definitely not amused. Dressed for the day and ready to begin his preliminary investigation, he followed his guide through the palace with his black armored guard following. A lot was on his mind without the Princess mocking him. He walked briskly passed her. "When does the Viceroy return?"
She matched his step. "This evening."
"And the vote?"
"It's scheduled to commence immediately upon his return."
He nodded curtly, only wishing he had the clearance to brief General Tesh and figure out exactly what Alderaan knew about this situation. Apparently that was going to have to wait.
"A few Imperials arrived this morning, said they worked for you. Ben escorted them to the conference room." Leia said.
Luke frowned at the mention of Ben. "Lead me to the conference room."
She eyed him curiously. "No breakfast?"
Luke didn't even answer.
She merely shrugged. "After the meeting my mother suggested I show you gardens. Be a good place to think." She said. "Maybe relieve some tension."
Luke glanced at her, nodding once. He could use some peace and quiet.
The conference room was just a short distance away, and the short journey was spent in silence. It was very clear to Leia that Luke's encounter with Ben the night before kept him up. He was probably thinking of all the ways they could be used against the Empire.
She left it alone, hopefully the gardens cleared his mind.
It was strange for her to see so many Stormtroopers in her home, she counted thirty so far, flanking corridors and the conference room, and sensed more inside and around the Palace.
It was as if they were taking over.
As they neared the room, Luke motioned for Leia to fall back, to which she complied.
The Stormtroopers opened the door for Luke, and quickly closed them.
Leia shook her head. Thus far, she sensed anger only typical frustrated and stressed men - on the surface. Despite being rather blindsided last night, he kept his cool. A statement, really, showcasing the control he had over his inner rage.
Unfortunately - for Ben - her temper was not as easily controlled.
Briskly and purposefully, she left, making her way to the security room where her disguised Master resided.
As usual, he was keeping his disguise up, monitoring the screens.
"You almost blew it." She began with an accusing finger pointed at him.
His gaze remained on the screens. "Calm yourself, Padawan." He answered. "I underestimated his deductive skills. A mistake, to be honest."
"Make sure it doesn't happen again." She ordered haughtily. "We may have only this one chance."
A smirk appeared on his lips. "I see my facade has gotten to your head, Apprentice." He turned to her.
She sighed sheepishly with a shake of her head. "I- didn't mean to order you..."
Ben rose a hand. "It's fine, Leia. I understand your urgency. Don't let doubt cloud your judgement. That will be the fatal mistake."
She nodded. "Yes, Master."
He placed a hand on her shoulder. "I fear I may have been wrong about young Luke. He seems much more tame... than his father."
"Our father." She corrected swiftly.
"Anakin Skywalker is your father, Leia." He retorted. "And you are as wise and powerful as he once was. But as impatient as well. Be mindful of your thoughts, Padawan. We must approach Luke with grace and understanding of we are to save him from darkness."
She nodded once more, releasing her anxieties with a small sigh.
Ben smiled at her, squeezing her shoulder before turning back to the monitors.
"You seem troubled, Master."
Ben placed his fingers on his chin, slowly stroking his beard. "I sense something..." He looked out of the window. "...elusive. Great darkness is approaching." He muttered. "Be vigilant."
— - - —
