Session 8- Qui-Gon

To bring about calm

It was apparent by the woman's words and actions that Qui-Gon was unwanted. A shadow passed across his eyes as he easily matched Lady Amidala's brisk pace. It had not been the first time his charge had not been particularly ecstatic about his presence. His calm smile would never falter and any annoyance he might feel would be hidden with practiced ease. She may be a brilliant young politician but Qui-Gon was sure he would manage his assignment with relative ease.

At least that was what the Knight hoped. A slight disturbance was felt when he had taken on the assignment, however it was neither overwhelming nor had it had a distinctive edge of peril. Hence, Qui-Gon had accepted.

Normally, the Jedi did not get involved with planetary governments and almost never would it have intervened in the elections of a seemingly peaceful planet such as Naboo. However, with the rumors of a rising Dark Force and the alienation of Naboo by the Trade Federation, the Council had deemed the request of Jobal Naberrie not only permissible but had granted the current King Veruna the same protection.

It seemed, however, that the young female politician had not been told of the joint protection. While her fears appeared fairly grounded, with Jedi Master Dooku giving parallel protection to Veruna, they were now rendered obsolete.

Qui-Gon let a barely audible sigh escape his lips as he followed dutifully behind Amidala, giving her the space she desired.

Count Dooku... was an odd choice.

Whenever his former master was involved, the matter would appear later in the Council. Master Dooku's conflicting beliefs would, without a doubt, bring unwanted trouble. Many times Qui-Gon questioned the decisions of the Council and bring Dooku into this election/trade argument was very near the top. Perhaps the Council saw fit for Dooku to be actively saving lives rather then destroying them. The reports on the Battle of Galidraan(i) had been grim even when summarized.

Mandalorians were a practically tough crowd to deal with and perhaps this mission would bring calm to Dooku.

Somehow, Qui-Gon could not look upon this mission as such for Dooku.

Glossary:
(i)Battle of Galidraan: Cannon: 34 BBY The battle in which Count Dooku lead a task force of Jedi against the Mandalorians. Jango is perceived to be the only survivor.

AN: Now that we have everything set up, the story should start moving along quite quickly.

Session 9

Finding Friendship

"Amidala of Naboo?"

"Yes, it seems that she has become much too persistent and outspoken to be…of any use."

"What else has she done to deserve this treatment?"

"In the eyes of morality?...Absolutely nothing."

"Then, is this absolutely necessary?"

"…Politics, my boy, do not run on romantic ideas of morality."

"…"

"…My pervious offer still stands."

"I am not fond of political assassinations."

"…double my pervious amount-"

"-not fond at all."

"-and the same after proof of completion, my final offer."

"Agreed."