Writer's notes: Updated 15 SEP 07 - I am drawing on Tom Clancy and Robert Ludlum for inspiration here...along with some friends in this line of work. The pithy blurb shows how intelligence has been around since Biblical times...even earlier. I'd like to mold Manaan into sort of a Cold War Berlin type of scenario and play up the cloak and dagger theme.
Ergot realizes that he has bitten off more than he can chew.
Thank you to Padawan Sydney, Evan, Darth Chuck, Padawan Mage, Son Kenshin, and those crazy, funloving Dark Siders.
Tinker Tailor Jedi Spy
These are the names of the men which Moses sent to spy out the land
Numbers 13:16
The team egressed the Ebon Hawk and stepped onto the soft, rubberized deck of the hangar bay. Aerin immediately noticed the soft sound of waves lapping against the metallic walls of Ahto City along with the briny smell of seawater. Alien gulls called in the distance, lending a sense of tranquility to this neutral world. However, what lay beneath the surface of this planet was anything but tranquil.
Aerin took Sasha and Mission up to the edge of the bay and they gazed into the sunlit waters, feeling the warmth of the sun on their faces. Sasha smiled and waved at the gulls while holding her plush toys. Carth approached and tousled the child's blonde hair. "She's learning at an unbelievable rate. You're a good teacher, Aerin."
The Padawan shrugged, deflecting credit. "No, we have a good student, don't we, Sasha?"
Carth chuckled. "We better get moving. We'll need time to mount an expedition to wherever this map is? I can't imagine this is going to be easy?"
"What do we know about this planet?" asked Aerin, looking out over the rolling surf.
Hearing them, Commander Ergot stepped up and cleared his throat. "Ahem…. Excuse me, but our intelligence indicates that Manaan is non-aligned in the war. They maintain a neutrality, helping neither side. The reason they can keep this status is because of their harvesting of Kolto, an amazingly powerful healing plankton. The Selkath, the native species here, have thus become wealthy, selling their Kolto to both sides through each power's respective embassy."
"The Selkath…the aquatic race?" asked the Padawan.
"Yes," Commander Ergot said, nodding his head authoritatively, "the fish people. Fortunately, they are use to dealing with off worlders and have access to translators so communication will not be an issue."
Mission's voice rang from the ship's hatch, "Well, what are we waiting for? I'm starving!"
Zaalbar's warbling roar echoed the sentiment.
Manaan Port Authority
They secured the Ebon Hawk and walked to the Manaan Port Authority to register the vessel and receive visas to enter the city. Once they had paid the duties and been granted access, Commander Ergot noticed a Selkath standing nearby, observing them. He…or she had scaly, dull green skin with a bulbous head and a broad mouth, filled with tiny teeth. The Selkath wore an orange coverall and thick, rubber boots.
"Is there something I can help you with?" Ergot asked in his imperious tone.
The Selkath looked him up and down. "I see you have been traveling far and wide. Might you have encountered some alien species for our zoo?"
"We have not, sorry," the Commander said impatiently, anxious to check into a hotel and take a hot shower.
"Then perhaps you have some intelligence for me," the Selkath whispered. "Do not think we have forgotten you."
Ergot's blood ran cold and he nearly choked. He pulled the Selkath around a corner, out of sight of the rest of the team and glanced furtively from side to side. "What do you people want? I've given you everything I have already. Leave me alone."
"Oh, perhaps you're right," the Selkath said, suddenly changing his tone and rolling his eyes. He turned to walk away. "Yes, it would be better if we just cut ties here and now and our documentation of your actions fell into the hands of the Republic Fleet Counterintelligence Division. Have a nice day…."
"Wait."
He thought his ties to the Sith had been cut with the death of the Viper Team on Kashyyyk. His betrayal of the Republic was more out of a misguided desire to put Aerin in her place and to appear the hero than to truly harm the Republic. However, he was now in too deep. The commander sputtered, "Ummm, perhaps I do have something for you."
"Do you think it's that easy? Do you think you can just walk away from the Empire?" the Selkath whispered arrogantly and then walked over to Bastila to provoke the commander. "Perhaps this lady knows about alien species. Lady Jedi, do you have any exotic or rare species that you might sell to our illustrious zoo?"
Bastila brightened as an idea smashed into her head. "Indeed we have. We have a ton of Gizka! Follow me. You can take them right now."
Commander Ergot rushed over and interposed himself between the Jedi and the Selkath. "Let me accompany you," he said forcefully. "We can't just allow anyone on the ship. I'll ensure that security measures are followed."
Bastila nodded and they boarded the Hawk together The Selkath croaked out some words and began to gently gather the Gizka into crates. As Bastila stood there, looking pleased, Ergot shot the Selkath a look and they made brief eye contact. The zookeeper nodded and placed a small device under the navigator's seat on the bridge and then closed up his crate.
"Jedi…by the way, what is your name?" the Selkath asked.
"Bas…uhhh…Balaya…Balaya Kolis. Thank you so much for taking these off of our hands. I'm sure you will give them a good home."
"Why of course, Jedi Kolis. You will have to make it a point to visit our zoo. We have such wonderful spies…ummm, I mean pies," the Selkath said with a wicked smile to further agitate Ergot, who turned white as a sheet.
The Selkath seemed to take evil delight in this and then shook Commander Ergot's hand. He then departed with his crates and walked out of the hangar bay. Ergot watched him go and let out a long breath. He knew there was no escape and that he would have to play his cards very carefully to get out of this one alive, much less with his reputation intact.
There is way too much at stake here. I've got to go on the offensive. I know…I have to play my hand soon.
As his plan came together, he relaxed somewhat and wiped the briny slime from the Selkath from his hand.
Ahto City Zoo
With his fishy hand, the Selkath quickly pocketed the data chip that was passed to him by Ergot and went back to Ahto City Zoo, where sat at a terminal. The screen brightened and the image of a dark-haired woman, shrouded in shadow, appeared.
"Karla," announced the Selkath proudly, "I am sending you some information. My uncle's recipe for Firaxa Soup is superb. I just made contact with him."
The woman nodded. "Thank you. I appreciate your help in preparing our meal. I'll send you something for your troubles."
The Selkath logged off and went off to put his new Gizka in an exhibit. The playful beasts would certainly delight the offworld children.
The Sith Embassy
In a darkened room, deep within the bowels of the Embassy of the Sith Empire on Manaan, the dark-haired woman stood with her downloaded information. The room that she was in, known as a SCIF, was highly secure, being swept for intrusion devices daily and sound and Force proofed as additional security measures. It was here that the Sith would communicate their most secret information in their quest to conquer the galaxy.
Satisfied, Karla walked up to a man dressed in a silver robe with black eyes and handed him the data. "Ambassador, we might have something of interest for Darth Bandon."
The man nodded. "I will pass this on, Karla. You should make your meeting with your asset."
"I think my informant is close to giving us what we want," Karla added. "I've been working on him and he's breaking down."
The ambassador took a breath and cocked his head. He sucked his lips, showing a hint of impatience. "But he has given no valuable intelligence yet and you've had several months now. I've given you wide latitude to pursue this matter. I am confident you won't let me down."
Karla forced a smile and then departed back to her quarters, where she changed into a stunning black dress and leather coat. The woman was exceptionally beautiful, with dark hair and eyes. Her youthful appearance belied her experience as an Intelligence Operative for the Sith Empire and she would use all of her guile and all of her training to get within the Republic. Once changed, Karla departed to meet with the source of much of her intelligence.
The striking young woman left by a secret exit out of the Embassy and walked toward the visitor district, where a number of upscale hotels were situated. In the fading sunlight, she turned heads as she walked by, exceedingly aware of every eye upon her.
I'd normally prefer to be incognito, but this assignment demands such action.
Karla stopped briefly in front of a luxurious hotel with towering minarets and grand arches that stood over wide walkways and grand pavilions. The hotel was painted gaily in salmon and jade, adding to the festive atmosphere. The tall, dark woman strode purposefully across the courtyard past a fountain that hurled water high into the air. As she reached an elevator, a man in a leather jacket stepped out of an open lift and bumped into her. Somehow, he seemed familiar. She thought he was a frequent guest of the hotel.
"Sorry," he said quietly. There seemed to be recognition in his eyes. Her coat parted for a split second and the man tried to steal a peek. However, instead of any intimate apparel, he noticed a long, silver cylinder attached to her belt. As she nodded and stepped onto the elevator, he shrugged and rubbed his hands in anticipation of a game of Pazaak at the casino. "Those two will be at it again tonight," he said in regards to the woman. "Good thing I'll be gone for a while. Tonight will be the lucky night! I'm going to be a winner."
Karla tapped her foot as the elevator sped up to the 11th Floor, where her hotel room was located. She stepped off of the lift and turned to the left to see a Rodian in a lime green swimsuit, stepping out of his own room. He swung his towel over his shoulder and they passed in the hall with a head nod. With some anticipation, Karla approached the door to her room and inserted an electronic key.
When the door opened, she entered the room, put out the 'do not disturb' sign, and went to the mirror to refresh herself. As expected, there was a knock. She opened the door to see the broad smile of a middle-aged man.
He stepped in with a limp and embraced her passionately. "Elassa," he murmured, to which she answered, "Sunry, I've been waiting all day for this."
The Embassy of the Galactic RepublicOn the other side of the city, three men sat in an office within the Republic Embassy, sipping caffa. One man with a finely trimmed gray beard perused a data file while a domestic droid refilled his mug. The man, whose skin was dark as his caffa, pursed his lips in disapproval. "I'm thinking we should pull the plug on this operation. Our man, SMILEY, is losing perspective; he's in too deep."
A second man, dressed in a smart blue military uniform, snickered at the double entendre while the third man, in civilian attire, shook his head. The civilian voiced his own opinion. "I have to disagree, Ambassador Wann, Sunry Baynum is one of our best agents. The intelligence that we can gain from this is worth the risk."
Ambassador Roland Wann exhaled audibly. Operations like this carried huge risks, but also had the potential for huge returns. "We'll continue for now. Just remember that I have the final authority over all Republic operations on Manaan. Now, tell me, how are things at Hrakert Rift?"
Ahto City Immigration and Customs Enforcement – EveningBack at the Customs Office, Bastila and Commander Ergot returned to the group, who were admiring the sunset over the calm ocean. Yellow rays glistened across rippling water beneath crimson and violet cumulus clouds. Mission stood there, dazzled, while Carth stood close behind Aerin. Slowly, the sun slipped beneath the waves and darkness shrouded Ahto City. Soon, warm lights came on, illuminating the avenues and structures.
Nearby, Jordo had cleared the Customs desk and walked up to Carth. "Okay, boss, I fixed that coolant leak in the port ion engine and cleaned out the food replicators; they were a mess."
Aerin and Mission rolled their eyes simultaneously. "Griff."
Captain Onasi then brought everyone together. "I'm going to check in at the Republic Embassy. Those with the fleet should come with me. The rest of you ought to check into a hotel in the Visitors District. We'll join you later."
Together, the team left the Customs area and split into two groups. As Carth led the Republic party down one street, Canderous and the others took a different route.
A protocol droid directed the mercenary to a landspeeder bus waiting for visitors. He walked up the steps to the awaiting driver, who asked, "Sir, may I take your weapon?"
Canderous growled. "Touch my blaster and you die."
Without another word, the Mandalorian sat. Mixed feelings had crept into the mercenary's mind since Kashyyyk and he wrestled with them. A warrior is not supposed to have doubts…a warrior lives to conquer his enemy. We triumphed over the Czerka; that should be enough for me.
With his angst came a certain irritability.
As he wrestled with his feelings, Bastila sat across from him, but she would not make eye contact. Canderous snickered. Going on the offense would take the edge off of his doubts. "So, Jedi Princess, a few Gizka make you squeamish, huh?"
She turned beat red, but did not reply. Canderous pressed a bit harder, digging into things he knew bothered her. "I get it now…originally, you thought you were going to lead this mess after the other Jedi bit it. How is it that someone younger and less experienced took charge? Could it be that you don't have the right stuff and Belaya knew it all along?"
Bastila exploded. "Shut up! Just shut up, you broken down kath hound. You have no idea what you're talking about!"
Unfortunately, Canderous knew he had hit the mark and brought forth Bastila's secret fear.
The mercenary chuckled and pointed to his own chin. "You've got some spit on your chin, Jedi Princess…very unbecoming. You need to get a hold of yourself."
Bastila shook for a moment in thinly veiled rage before she stood and took another seat in the rear of the bus. Then, she wiped her face and gulped hard. Canderous watched her for another second before he grew bored of the game and turned his attention to the passing scenery.
"This would've been a fun place to conquer."
The Back of the Bus
Bastila grinded her teeth and dug her nails into the padded seat.
I absorbed something from Padawan Dakar when we performed the cleansing ritual - her anger, her needs…her passions. I only hope my taking of some of her burden will give her the strength she needs to complete this hopeless quest.
Padawan Shan thought of Kyle Durren for a brief second and then frowned as her stomach churned. Indeed, she had absorbed Aerin's passions. To distract herself, she turned to watch the passing scenery.
Why me? Why did Master Vandar send me? Was it because of my defeating Revan? It's all a scam! I did nothing. Malak blasted Revan as I stood there shaking. What am I doing here? I just want to return to Dantooine. I don't want any more of these complications…any more of these barbarians.
The Embassy of the Galactic RepublicOutside of the distinguished-looking building, Aerin gazed up at the brilliant stars and felt…good. Her stomach was at ease and her mind clear for the first time in a while. Something…something intangible warmed her heart and her hunger for it grew.
Sasha…Mission…Carth…I can make it work. I know I can. I need this if I am to survive this insanity.
Elaborately dressed sentries flanked the entrance into the Embassy. These elite men held long Force Pikes and had blaster pistols holstered at their thighs. Carth approached and showed his identification to which a sentry came to attention, snapping his pike smartly against his chest in salute. Another sentry opened the heavy door and bowed. "Captain Onasi, welcome to Manaan."
He entered, followed by the intell officers and the marines. They walked up to the receptionist where Carth again showed his identification. "I need to see the military attaché as soon as possible."
Two junior officers approached and saluted the captain. "Sir, please follow us," they said, leading the way down the hall.
In the office of the Mil-At, they were seated on plush leather couches. Commander Ergot glanced about nervously, noticing the video surveillance cameras in the corners of the room. He fought to control his breathing, but perspiration beaded up on his brow.
A side door carved of rich, dark wood, opened and the Military Attaché for the Republic entered. "Carth Onasi! As I live and breathe." The man was tall and lean with graying, blond hair. He wore a blue dress uniform with high collars and a row of decorations across his chest. With great military bearing, he stepped up and shook Carth's hand warmly, ignoring the rest. He then sat in an elegant, high-backed chair and regarded the group with some interest.
"Anar, I heard you traded a ship for a desk. What's up with that?" asked Carth jokingly, falling easily back into his jovial military persona.
Captain Anar Holdar had recently come to this post from the fleet. "I know, I know, Carth. I took a lot of ribbing for this, but it's something I believe in. This planet is critical to our success in the war. If we fail here, things will go badly. I knew I could contribute just as much here…only behind the scenes."
Carth nodded his understanding and then introduced the rest of his crew. Captain Holdar acknowledged them in turn and said, "I'm going to bring in the Chief of Station. Hang on. My protocol droid will see to your needs." He stood and departed as a golden droid came in and took refreshment orders.
He returned shortly with a stocky man in his late fifties. The Chief of Station wore a civilian suit covered in a luxurious robe of teal and black. He was responsible for all intelligence and counterintelligence matters within the sector and he had come to find that everything on Manaan was critical. The Chief regarded the team suspiciously; he had a healthy mistrust for the fleet types, thinking them all reckless and disrespectful, believing that only they contributed to the war effort. And to him, this Onasi was the worst offender.
He refrained from shaking any hands, but acknowledged Ergot with a head nod and sat in a chair near the corner.
Anar motioned to the Chief. "This is Koloss Merten, our esteemed Chief of Station. As you know, he is a civilian working for Republic Intelligence. However, his credentials are impeccable, which is why he was selected to fill this most important position."
Merten looked at Aerin, who was dressed in her Padawan's robes. "You are a Jedi," he said inquisitively.
She nodded. "Yes, but I suppose I am also a lieutenant in the Republic Navy."
"She is still listed on the active duty rolls," acknowledged Captain Holdar.
The Chief's expression soured and he grunted coldly. "I have been briefed on your mission and Ambassador Wann has instructed us to provide you with whatever support you need," he announced, making it clear that his hand was forced in this matter.
Carth smiled. "Thank you, sir. We appreciate that," he said, trying his best to be respectful.
As they stood and adjourned the meeting, Chief Merten approached Ergot. The coldness of his earlier demeanor broke and a warm smile came to his broad face. "Haman, how is your father?"
The commander bowed. "He is well, sir. I'm sure he would send his compliments," he replied, making it obvious that he had connections.
"I know he helped you get this assignment, as he should. You are well suited for this task, no doubt. That damn fool, Revan, trying to do away political influence…the civilian authority would lose control of the military. Then where'd we be? I'll tell you, we'd be like the Jedi, never being able to trust your friends. Look at them," he said, pointing to Aerin, "A third of their Order betrayed the Republic. You can't trust a single one of them," he said with a derisive snort.
Ergot nodded obediently and the Chief patted him on the back. "You'll do fine, son. Your father has always been supportive of our idea of retaining power."
As Ergot turned to go with the group, Merten spoke to Captain Holdar. "Captain, have we launched the probe droid yet? My agency is waiting for the data."
"Not yet. We're loading the sensor suite. It'll go in two days."
Commander Ergot stopped and cocked his head to listen for just a second before rejoining the team, which was heading down the hallway.
The Mil-At walked with them and gave some papers and a box to Carth. "These are for Captain Durren, he's being promoted to major and I thought you should pin him since he's under your command. I've got to brief the Ambassador now. Have a good time, Carth, but you need to be very careful around here; Manaan is a hotbed of spies and agents. Well, I'm off. I'm sure I'll see you around."
At the word, 'spies', Aerin perked up. Things had gotten so complex since Taris. Ergot believes that Juhani is our traitor. She does fit the profile, having once fallen to the Dark Side. He also showed me the Sith medallion in her bag. By the Force, if Juhani has sold us out, I will personally cut her head off.