A New Order - Chapter 21
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I do not own Harry Potter or Star Wars, and I make no profit from this work of fan fiction. I am in the debt of its actual owners as they have been the creators of worlds of fiction that millions have enjoyed. All Hail to JKR and GL!
Oh and please remember – This is AU people.
Thanks must go to XRaiderV1 for his Beta Work.
Last Time:
So the Jedi had managed to escape his net, for now. In the long run, it wouldn't matter. Their ranks were thinned out nicely and soon every hand he could control would be turned against them. He merely needed to be patient.
The ascendancy of the Sith was one step closer to fruition.
oOoOoOo
Across hundreds of worlds, countless skirmishes continued as the Jedi withdrew.
On Jardeen IV, six Jedi perished at the hands of Clone's as they attempted to run the Republican blockade of the planet…the hills of Ubertica became the unknown memorial of a dozen Clones who fell to a single Jedi Master…on Homon a pair of Padawans managed to flee the relentless clones after their masters sacrificed themselves to enable their escape...On Kovarin III, six ARC clones fought their way out of an ambush escaping with their injured former general.
oOoOoOo
HoloNet Special Broadcast
In a statement delivered by the Chancellor, he has confirmed that valiant clone units have begun operations to place under arrest the Jedi responsible for the attempted military takeover of the Republic.
The Senate has made it clear that the lives of citizens are paramount. So until the threat presented by these Jedi and the rogue military units they command is contained the Senate has directed the military to continue policing critical areas.
Senator Mas Amedda made it clear that until the CIS surrendered the Republic would need to remain vigilant against separatist attacks. "The war is not over, and it will not be over until the forces moving against our beloved Republic have been suppressed!"
Read more here
oOoOoOo
Calaron Sector - Outer Rim Territories
Padawan Javit Cord cursed as he tried to lock down what exactly was wrong with his fighter. "A8 run another diagnostic on the flight systems."
His Astromech beeped forlornly as the translation appeared on his screen.
Hyperdrive is offline – Attempts to re-route power have failed. Weapons fire has damaged the power converter
"Can you fix it A8?"
No
"Well, that's just farking well excellent…fine, what about sublight?"
Operational but with minimal power
Javit resisted the urge to curse again, barely, "What is working properly A8?"
Javit felt the first touches of panic as the list; the short list scrolled onto the screen. "What's the matter with life support?"
Falling power levels due to the system compensating for two occupants
"So how long are we talking here A8?"
Two standard hours
"And the nearest habitable, friendly planet is…?"
There is an unaligned colony within our range – There is, however, a Republic presence in that system
"So we would be detected approaching, we are in trouble A8."
I concur – Perhaps it would be advisable to activate our distress beacon
"Which will give us away as well, how's Master Kel-Tor?"
Vitals are weak but stable
Javit took a deep breath before closing his eyes and extending his awareness into the Force. His meditation deepened and he let himself fall into the Force seeking the correct path.
oOoOoOo
"I sense something, a cry for help," whispered Jedi Master Sian Jeisel, who closed her eyes for a moment before reaching out to take the controls.
"What is it Sian?" asked Jedi Master Moris Tel-Thall.
"A feeling that we are needed, let the others know," replied Sian as she began making changes to the console.
Moris left the cockpit and entered the mess.
"Something that matter Sir?" asked Sprinter as he looked up from his meal. The ARC clone was still in his armor.
"Sian has sensed something, someone needing help," explained Moris. "We may be dropping out of Hyperspace shortly."
"I'll tell the lads," replied Sprinter, who took another mouthful before throwing Moris a casual salute.
Moris couldn't help but smile at the clone's antics. The ARC's were considerably more…well more individual than the standard clones. 'Thank the Force they were or things would be much more difficult,' thought Moris as he stepped back into the cockpit.
"I have a small ship, a fighter I believe on long range sensors," reported Sian.
Moris studied the sensor readings, "Looks like a Jedi Starfighter. Watch out Sian it's drifting."
"On it, I'm matching our rotation," replied Sian.
Moris tried hailing the starfighter, but there was no response. Sensors quickly told him why. "It's unpowered. We will have to get a mag-lock on it."
Sian grunted in acknowledgment as she began edging the freighter closer, starting the tricky emergency docking process.
oOoOoOo
"They are alive General, although General Kel-Tor is going to need medical attention soon if he is going to survive," reported Sprinter. "The Padawan is unconscious although medic thinks that it's due to the bad air."
"What about the fighter?"
"Dumped it with a scuttling charge set for forty minutes, Sir."
"Good work, keep an eye on our patients while we work out what to do."
"Will do Sir," acknowledged Sprinter.
"How are they?" asked Rian.
"Not good, Kel-Tor needs a decent medical facility," replied Moris.
"It's a long run to the rendezvous with the Order."
"What choice do we have?" asked Rian. "Anywhere we put down could put up a big red flag now Palpatine is back in charge. Alderaan and the other systems not supporting Palpatine are sure to be watched."
Moris sighed considering options. "Well, I…we have incoming ships. Four no five Republic cruisers…damn, it's a clone fleet."
"I'm getting us out of here," said Rian as she pushed the engines to full power. "Get the shields up. They'll be in range before we are ready to jump."
"On it," replied Moris as he raised the shields before flicking the intercom on. "Strap in everyone."
A welcome green light appeared on the console; the Hyperdrive was ready.
Before Rian could activate it, the freighter shook as a blaster bolt hit the shields. Almost immediately a second hit followed causing the lights to flicker.
"The shields won't take much more of this Rian," warned Moris as the lights flickered again.
"Go to hyperspace in three, two…go."
The freighter rocked again before leaping into hyperspace.
oOoOoOo
Haven
Hermione tried to remain positive as she considered the complete information blackout from Coruscant. The HoloNet was still broadcasting, but the content was clearly being heavily censored. There was little however that she could do but wait. The rest of Haven's fleet was either docked or deeper within the asteroid field, but the Lily was still unaccounted for.
"Anything?" asked Ron from the doorway.
"Not yet," replied Hermione. "I'm getting a bit concerned even though I don't sense anything. Well, the Force isn't infallible is it?"
Ron walked over and wrapped his arms around Hermione from behind, "Have faith Moine."
"We knew this was coming, but it doesn't make it any easier waiting to see if they are fine."
"We need to be ready for when they call," said Ron.
"I will be, we will be."
"Then let one of the droids take over here and let's get back to work."
Hermione looked up at Ron studying him. He had grown since his brush with death; he was stronger and wiser, "You're right."
"First time for everything," said Ron with a smile.
Before Hermione could reply an alert on the long range communications console sounded. Hermione immediately activated the console and an image of Harry appeared.
"Haven this is the Lily. We are on route to a rendezvous. We have a number of guests on board; I don't want to go any further into it even encrypted. We'll get back to you soon."
With that Harry's image flickered and disappeared.
"Well, they are away from Coruscant. We need to let the others know," said Ron with a grin before he schooled his features adopting an exaggeratedly stern demeanor. "Trust in the Force young one,"
oOoOoOo
The Lily - Hyperspace
Anakin checked that Padmé was still asleep before closing the door once more and making his way to the small mess area. Obi-Wan, Shaak Ti, Ahsoka and Barriss Offee were already sitting at the table eating and drinking.
"Where is everyone?" asked Anakin.
"Wisely taking the opportunity to get some sleep I suspect," replied Obi-Wan.
Shaak Ti nodded, "Wise of them indeed. How are the Senator's Anakin?"
Anakin shrugged as he poured himself a cup of something that resembled herbal tea. He sniffed it before shrugging and taking a sip. Deeming it acceptable he sat down next to Obi-Wan. "As you say Master Ti they are asleep save for Senator Organa, who is apparently talking to our hosts."
"I haven't seen anyone since Black showed us our berths. Has anyone else?" asked Shaak Ti.
"Not since I saw Luna earlier Master. I was getting a drink when she came in. She enquired if I needed assistance. When I said, I did not she left," reported Ahsoka.
"Perhaps we should seek out our hosts," said Obi-Wan.
"There is no need Master Kenobi we were just having a similar discussion," said Luna as she appeared followed by Velath. "We are about to drop out of hyperspace now that we are clear of the main hyperspace routes. We wanted to know if you wish to contact your people."
"Thank you, Luna that would be advisable. The coordinates I gave you are correct, but it wouldn't hurt to check that the situation hasn't changed." Obi-Wan said with a polite nod.
Anakin followed as Luna led Obi-Wan to the cockpit, although the bridge was probably a better descriptor. For a private vessel, the ship was certainly not short on room. Anakin had seen a great many merchant ships and had to admit that the Adept's obviously had serious financial backing.
As they reached the bridge, the ship shuddered slightly dropping back into relativistic space. Luna gestured, and Obi-Wan sat in the empty chair near the communications console. Harry was piloting the ship so Anakin took the opportunity to study the bridge; noting that the set out was standard even if the equipment was top of the line.
"Nothing within scanner range," reported Harry. "It's an unpopulated system so we shouldn't see any military traffic."
"What system are we in?" asked Anakin.
"Xenaphex system, none of the three planets has an atmosphere or any resources worth exploiting apparently," replied Harry. "Once you contact your ships we can rendezvous with them."
"What of your people are they safe?" asked Anakin. Given recent events, it was very likely that Palpatine would move against anyone who defied him.
Harry nodded, "Our people are well hidden and will likely remain so for the foreseeable future."
Anakin grimaced as he considered that he had no idea what the Jedi would do next. Somehow they had lost the fight for the Republic. The Sith now controlled the military and the vast majority of the known galaxy. He broke away from his dark musings when a familiar image appeared on the holo-projector.
"Good it is to see you Master Kenobi, "said Yoda. "Escaped Coruscant you have?"
"Yes Master we are aboard a merchant ship," replied Obi-Wan.
"Alone are you?"
"No master, we are aboard adept Potter's ship."
"Ahh unexpected this is….co-ordinates I will need. A ship I will send."
Luna sighed and stepped into view of the holo-imager, "Master Yoda, I know you Jedi have reservations, but I would hope that we have built some trust here."
Yoda nodded slowly, "Trust you have earned, being cautious we are."
"Very well, we will transmit our co-ordinates,"
oOoOoOo
The transport that arrived was escorted by two Delta-7 Aethersprite-class light interceptors.
Harry watched the transport approaching before turning to Luna, "Well we had better head down to the airlock. Sirius, can you take over here?"
"Right-o I'll keep your seat warm," said Sirius with a grin.
Harry and Luna were joined by Velath and the Jedi and Senator's as the airlock hatch slid open.
Master Cin Drallig stepped inside followed by his Padawan Bene, "Permission to come aboard?"
"Of course," replied Harry.
"Master Drallig, I wasn't aware that you were on Coruscant when we evacuated," said Obi-Wan.
Cin Drallig shook his head, "We were not, Bene and I were on our way back from trying to find Asajj Ventress when we received the coded message. We only joined the others a few hours ago. Now Master Yoda mentioned that you needed transport, quickly. How many are coming with us?"
Twenty minutes later the transport leaped into hyperspace followed by its two escorts.
"Well let's head home," said Luna with a smile.
oOoOoOo
Coruscant
"Your orders are to hunt down the Jedi. I want no survivors to go to ground and begin plotting rebellion."
"Yes my Lord," said the leader of the three cloaked figures kneeling before Darth Sidious.
"Soon I will be announcing the restructure of our glorious republic," the last was said with a twisted smile. "Once that is done, I will need the military to maintain order until my rule is well and truly established. I don't doubt that certain…rebellious systems will protest the transition. So you will need to conserve your fleet."
"I understand my Lord."
"Good, I shall advise the Military that you have been promoted to Admiral. That will give you the rank to lead the military units you require."
"Thank you my Lord."
"Go now Admiral Sev'rance Tann and serve me as you so aptly served my former apprentice."
Sev'rance Tann rose to her feet, her red eye's glinting in the shadow filled room, "You saved me, my Lord. I am yours to command."
Darth Sidious smiled coldly as the Chiss female turned and left followed by the two dark side acolytes. Dooku's former prize acolyte had been on the verge of death when she escaped her Jedi Killers. Somehow she had managed to reach a shuttle and survive long enough to heal herself. He had found her disfigured and still injured but powerful enough to be sensed in the Force. In a burst of inspiration, he had her transported to a medical facility and treated. A Force inspired investment of resources that was now paying dividends for his cause. Even if she was unsuitable as an apprentice, she made a fine left hand.
Sev'rance Tann suppressed her disgust as she strode towards her shuttle. Darth Sidious was like a well of dark side power. Much more so than Dooku had ever been, but he was also much more twisted. He was arrogant and in the end he saw her as nothing more than a tool. Still he had given her back her life, and while she wasn't loyal, she was grateful. So for now she would do his bidding.
She would hunt down the Jedi. While she played at being a loyal tool she would learn how he had grown so powerful. Once she had acquired that secret, she would go her own way and leave Sidious to his scheming. The Force flowed through her and Sith philosophy aside the truth was that it was power that mattered, power and family. Once she had the power she could build her own family and eventually her own dark dynasty. To do that she needed a Force strong male to act as patriarch and her master was not fit for that role.
With a smile on her lips, Admiral Tann boarded her shuttle and sat back as it lifted off toward her fleet.
oOoOoOo
Jedi Refugee Fleet – Deep Space
"We must give the stragglers time to arrive. It will be unwise to leave a beacon."
Yoda looked tired as he waved his stick, "Unwise indeed Master Kollus. A refuge we may have but abandon the fight we must not. Refuge of the Jedi it must be. Padawans, trainers and our archives made safe they must be. Stay and fight some among us wish to do. The time to fight, come it will. Gather our strength we must."
Ki-Adi-Mundi shook his head in frustration, "And what of these Adepts? What is to stop them from gathering Force sensitives and recruiting them in our absence? "
"Some thought I have given this. Searchers we will leave. Seek out sensitive's to recruit they shall. Among our allies, they will live. Others that remain the Sith they shall oppose."
"Then we must decide on our roles," said Shaak Ti.
oOoOoOo
Jedi Transport 4654
"What will you do Anakin?" asked Obi-Wan.
"I will stay and fight," replied Anakin.
"As will I, we need to find a way to defeat the Sith."
"I will stay with you Master," said Ahsoka.
Anakin sighed, "Snips…Ahsoka you should stay. The Order could use..."
Ahsoka shook her head, "No way Sky guy I'm sticking with you."
"Are you both sure?" asked Obi-Wan.
Both Anakin and Ahsoka nodded.
"I don't think we'll be going alone. Master Mundi spoke to me earlier," explained Obi-Wan. "He's concerned about the adepts recruiting."
"I would love to know what their real story is. I mean what do we really know about their beliefs? Yes, they have helped, and I'm not saying that they are in league with the Sith. My concern is that they've shown that they are willing to ally with people like the followers of Palawa and Dathomiri witches." Anakin held up a hand to forestall Obi-Wan's response. "I know that I'm generalizing."
Obi-Wan stroked his beard for a moment before speaking, "We have yet to see any reason not to trust them, but I agree we need to know more about them."
"Have we asked?" asked Ahsoka. "I mean I've heard a lot of speculation but have we actually asked?"
oOoOoOo
The Lily
Harry awoke with a start having been dreaming of being in his cupboard under the stairs. As awareness of reality flooded in so did the realization that he was in his bunk. And he wasn't alone.
"Are you alright?"
Harry turned his head to see Luna lying next to him.
"Cupboard dream," explained Harry.
"Ah well would you like a glass of hot milk or mad, passionate sex?"
"Hmm decisions, decisions," murmured Harry.
"Now you get milk," said Luna as she sat up and walked out of the room. It took Harry a few moments to realize that Luna had just walked out of there cabin naked.
"She does this on purpose," said Harry.
Luna walked into the mess and poured a glass of milk. She gave Lerhra and Amelia Sto-Nar a smile and a small wave before disappearing back the way she had come.
"That was odd," said Amelia with a faint smile on her face.
Lerhra smiled and shrugged, "She has a touch of the seer. They are all a bit…unusual."
"True, she's also beautiful," said Amelia.
"I would advise against it, my friend. Her heart is already given."
"I know ahh well the Force knows best," said Amelia with a grin for her old teacher.
oOoOoOo
"Morning Luna," said Sirius as he stood up from the pilots chair and stretched. "Our next scheduled stop is...home."
Luna sat in the co-pilot's seat with a sad smile, "Perhaps but I...sense Harry and I shall not be there long."
Sirius' expression went from amused to composed, "I learned, after much suffering to take each day as it comes. Clichéd I know but true nonetheless."
"Wise words Sirius," said Harry from the doorway.
Sirius' smile was back as he walked toward the hatch, "I have my moments. Now I think I'll get a bite to eat and hit my pillow."
Harry sat in the pilot seat and quickly checked the readouts before turning to Luna, "What do you sense?"
"I keep seeing a darkness right at the edge of my perceptions. Nothing tangible but it's been growing since we left Coruscant."
Harry considered for a moment before replying, "Have you tried meditating on it?"
Luna's expressive eyes met his, and her doubt was clearly visible, "Yes, last night after you feel asleep. Whatever I'm sensing it's elusive. I wasn't even sure it was something until last night."
Harry extended his Force senses trying to catch a hint of what Luna was sensing. There was something...a flicker of a questing presence and a sense of emotion.
"Hatred...pure hatred," whispered Luna.
Harry could sense it now. It was as if whatever they were sensing was closer or had turned its attention toward them. As the feeling of menace grew, he tried to get some sense of what they were facing. The searching presence and something less defined, like an echo. Then without warning he sensed Luna's presence.
"Harry break the connection it's trying to find us," warned Luna.
He immediately did so but not before he felt a wave of anger crash through the Force.
"What was that?"
"I think we caught a glimpse of Palpatine searching for us. Did you sense the other presence?"
Harry nodded, "Was it someone with Palpatine?"
"I don't think so. It felt much stronger but much further away," Luna had none of the usual humor in her voice. "To be that far away and we could feel even an echo it was frightening."
"Even more so if it is actively helping the Sith," replied Harry.
"I take you felt it as well?" asked Lerhra from the hatch.
"Do you know what it was?" asked Harry.
"Know, no I don't know, but I fear that it is a small glimpse of our greater enemy and a glimpse at its power."
There was silence for few moments before Luna cleared her throat. "Should we warn the Jedi? I mean Palpatine was searching for something. We are just assuming it was us or we are his only target."
"No, you are right we are assuming," agreed Harry. "Perhaps it would be best to warn them. I'll drop us out of hyperspace and see if we can raise them with the comm's settings we have."
A few moments later the Lily dropped out of Hyperspace. Harry and Luna pulled up the communications logs but immediately found that Obi-Wan had removed the data files with the communication settings. As entirely reasonable as that was, it did complicate matters.
Luna began scrolling through files, "We may have dropped out of hyperspace too soon. There is no...Ah, hold on here it is. No, it isn't, bugger Obi-Wan did too good a job. I was hoping he had just hit the delete key but no, he removed the entire file."
Harry turned to look at Luna, "So what now?"
Luna turned, "Contacting them on general subspace is out. We have no idea where they are headed so we need to wait it out."
"Then we wait and let the Force guide us," said Lerhra.
"Or until Talia or one of the others on the otherwise who are willing to play messenger turn up," said Luna. "There is nothing more we can do here. Let's go home."
oOoOoOo
Haven
The Lily settled into her dock and after a few moments the sound of her engines faded to silence.
Hermione smiled as the ramp began to lower amid a cloud of steam.
"It's good to have them back," said Ron.
"I know, busy as we've been I've still missed them."
"I wonder what the others are like," mused Ron.
"I suspect that we'll find out soon enough."
Remus Lupin waved, and Harry raised a hand in acknowledgment of the greeting. Once the hatch was fully lowered Harry and Luna led a small procession to where the welcoming party waited.
"It's good to see you all safe, I've..oooff get off Sirius," Remus found himself picked up and hugged by Sirius.
"Ah, Mooney nice to see you haven't burnt the place down," Sirius grinned as he let go of Remus.
"You oaf I wanted to do the formal greeting before you made a joke of it," turning back to the rest of the group Remus tried to get thinks back on track. "On behalf of the council I welcome you to Haven."
oOoOoOo
Lerhra looked suitably impressed as Hermione finished giving the followers of Palawa a tour of Haven. "This is most impressive, to think that you have managed to bring together so many people and build this."
Hermione smiled and shook her head, 'We have all played a part."
"You are the Head Archivist are you not?" asked Lerhra.
"Yes, although it's far too grandiose a title as I'm the only one working full time in our archives."
Lerhra's polite smile changed into a grin, "Being an archivist is a calling, not a job Hermione. You should be proud of what you have achieved. I bet you have documented it all haven't you?"
Hermione couldn't help but smile as she nodded.
"My childhood friend was an archivist for one of the Republic's great independent centers for learning. Her love of knowledge defined her character throughout her life."
"I'm sorry I'm still learning about the greater galaxy, what was the name of the center where she worked?"
"The Promovote Academy, sadly the academy is long since gone, but Reneaha and her colleagues managed to save most of the archives. Perhaps one-day copies of some of which will grace your archives."
"Perhaps," replied Hermione with another smile. Lerhra was very easy to talk to and while she would have loved to hear more about the archives of the Promovte Academy the time set for the council meeting was fast approaching. "I believe that the council meeting is about to start."
"Well by all means let us be on our way."
oOoOoOo
Remus smiled slightly as a wide-eyed Amelia studied the conjured chair,
"And anyone can do this?" asked Amelia.
"Well any Force user can, or so we have discovered. Most here are just beginning their training," explained Remus.
"That's incredible, my people have a strong connection to the Force, and we have never even considered using the Force like this." Amelia cautiously sat on the chair and then sank back into it. "Ohh and it's comfortable too. Will it stay like this or does the transformation fade?"
"Permanent transformation is possible but tiring and not used all that often. The bigger the transformation the greater the energy drain," Remus quickly conjured a single white rose. "Now I created this from nothing, which is different from transforming something to something else. I put a fair amount of energy into the process so it should last for several hours."
Amelia took the rose and cautiously smelt the bloom, "It has a pleasant scent."
"They are one of my favorite flowers," admitted Remus.
"Would I be able to learn," asked Amelia.
"Any resident of Haven is welcome to attend classes," Remus explained before glancing at his watch. "I'm sorry Amelia, but we need to get moving. The council is meeting shortly."
oOoOoOo
Altis corrected the Padawan's feet slightly before nodding. The Padawan moved through a series of strikes and blocks before Altis once more corrected the Padawan, this time adjusting the young woman's grip. He watched carefully as she moved through the same sequence.
"Excellent work, did you feel the difference?"
"Yes Master Altis, it felt like the movements flowed more smoothly."
"Okay, Sena that is enough for today. I believe that you have another lesson soon."
"Thank you, Master," replied Sena before she walked toward the door pausing to give Harry a nod and a small wave.
"She looks to be a good student," said Harry.
"She wants to be a great Jedi and healer. I believe that Alyssa is her role model. It is good to see you again my friend."
"I wish that the trip hadn't been as eventful," replied Harry.
Altis shook his head his expression sad, "We knew this was coming. The fact that some Jedi survived is a testament to your interference. Had Luna killed Palpatine the entire Republic, perhaps even the Jedi would have turned against us. There is no way that you could have known the outcome. Even with the Force we are not omniscient."
"I know, but that doesn't make dealing with the repercussions any less dangerous," observed Harry.
"You need to keep perspective Harry. You have seen the same vision I have. The Jedi were doomed to fall. The Sith had engineered the Orders downfall years ago. You managed to circumvent much of that vision. Many more Jedi have survived, indeed more than we could have hoped. An unforeseen win, Palpatine has been exposed for what he is far earlier than he may have been; an action that could, potentially save countless people from being drawn into his net."
Harry nodded accepting Altis' words. Intellectually he knew that many lives had been saved. Palpatine's plans to destroy the Jedi and had been disrupted, and many of the political leaders among the Senate now knew him for what he was. Which would, in turn create more disruption and hopefully save lives.
"What do you make of the Lerhra and her companions?" asked Altis.
"They seem quite sincere; I certainly don't sense any duplicity. Luna suspects that the vision their seers have seen much the same as we have seen."
oOoOoOo
"I think you look, beautiful Mistress," offered Velath as she brushed Luna's hair.
"Thank you Velath, but please Luna will do," Luna made sure that there was no censure in her voice. "Can you pass me the tool kit?"
Velath watched as Luna opened a small section on her artificial hand and made a small adjustment. Luna flexed her fingers a few times before replacing the tool and resealing the synthskin.
"Does it hurt?"
Luna shook her head, "No, not really, but it is annoying sometimes. Things feel different through the receptors so if I'm touching something with both hands, well it gets a bit odd."
Velath grinned, "What about when you are with Harry?"
Luna laughed and assumed a prim demeanor, "Well that is a circumstance where two hands are needed although having a much stronger hand is a problem sometimes. I don't want to damage anything."
Velath smirked, "I see, well he is a most impressive male."
"And has anyone caught your eye?"
Velath's memories shifted to an image of a woman…a girl with dark pink skin and sapphire blue hair. For a moment before she shook her in dismissal, "I haven't been looking, besides I have been pretty busy keeping you out of trouble."
"You are my friend, and I want you to be happy. Take some time to meet the others, make some friends and socialize."
Velath nodded, "I will, once you are safe."
Luna suppressed a sigh. Ever since finding her on Dathomir Velath had been dedicated to her welfare. She was an attentive student and was developing her skills quickly, but she had few friends even among the other Dathomiri. "How much time do we have until the council is scheduled to start?"
oOoOoOo
Ret watched as two women he took to be Dathomiri engaged in a vicious lightsaber duel interspersed with various Force based attacks. It looked highly effective.
"You are one of the newcomers, are you not?"
He turned to see a women dressed similarly to the Dathomiri studying him.
"Yes, I just arrived a few hours ago. I haven't intruded have I?"
"No, I was simply seeing if you needed directions."
Ret shook his head, "I was merely watching your training, your students are quite skilled."
"Ahh, you have had training yourself, Master….?"
"My name is Ret and yes I've spent much of my life learning Teräs Käsi."
"I am Salara of the Bright cave clan; I have not heard of Terra..."
"Teräs Käsi," corrected Ret. "It means steel hands."
Salara raised an eyebrow as she studied Ret, "I see and would you care for a spar, so I can see your steel hands in action?"
Ret smiled and offered Salara a deep bow but without breaking eye contact.
Salara nodded in return before launching a lightning fast punch aimed at Ret's chest.
Ret stepped in and blocked with his right and in the same movement lashed out with a punch with his left hand. Salara easily blocked the counter punch and attempted a knee strike.
The two fighters moved back and forth exchanging punches and kicks. Each of them was speeding up as their movements were increasingly augmented by the Force.
Then Salara stepped back, disengaging to end the furious session. "Very impressive, if it is permitted would you be willing to teach me?"
"I am not sure you need too much help Salara, you are a very skilled opponent."
Salara laughed and shrugged, "You can always learn more. A lesson I have had driven home since coming here."
"I would be honored, however if I may ask?"
"Of course," replied Salara.
"How did you anticipate the foot sweep?"
"Your shoulder shifted slightly as you adjusted your hip. Although in truth it was more luck than anticipation," explained Salara.
"I shall watch it in the future; unfortunately I need to attend a meeting. Perhaps later when can discuss this further?"
Salara nodded and watched Ret leave the room. He was a powerfully muscled and very skilled male…good looking too. Perhaps there was more to learn than she had anticipated.
oOoOoOo
"Firstly let me welcome Lerhra, Amelia and Ret as representatives of the followers of Palawa. They seek refuge after their seers have seen glimpses of a dark, oppressive future."
Altis nodded toward the three followers of Palawa, who were seated next to Harry and Luna and then took his place.
Lerhra stood and bowed toward Altis. "I thank you for your greeting. When our elders allocated this task to me, the task of reaching out to those we called the agents of the new order, those who stood against the darkness. For many centuries, our sect has hidden itself away. Hiding our secrets and hoarding our knowledge as our numbers dwindled. Then as our sect dwindled, we began to sense a change coming. Our seers began having visions of a dark, twisted future. Fearing what they saw, we started searching for these agents so that we could help preserve our beliefs and knowledge."
Harry stood and studied the gathered people of Haven before turning to face Lerhra. "Any who seek to preserve knowledge of the Force, who would work toward confronting the darkness many of us here have seen for ourselves, are welcome at Haven."
Yanra, the elderly matriarch of the Bright Cave Clan, stood and walked to stand next to Harry and Lerhra. "Haven is a place of strength and safety, be welcome amongst your sisters and brothers."
That seemed to be the signal for the people of Haven to step forward. Singly and then in groups people came forward and welcomed the three newcomers.
"That went well," said Luna as she wrapped her arms around Harry and rested her chin on his shoulder.
"Altis and the others have done well; I expected any cohesiveness to take longer to develop, to see it in my mind was one thing to see it in reality, it's inspiring."
"And a little disappointing," added Luna "Seeing it thriving, I had somehow expected us to be more needed."
"Does that make me arrogant?" asked Harry.
Luna kissed Harry's neck, just below his ear, "No, besides we've been away so much. We have a greater role to play my love, and we've just gotten started."
Harry smiled as he reached backward to grasp Luna's bum, "Do you think we can slip away then?"
Luna responded with a laugh and stepped back as she took Harry's hand. "While I believe that's an excellent idea beloved, perhaps we should mingle a bit first. We don't want a reputation do we?"
oOoOoOo
As Harry undid Luna's bra, he gestured to his left, and the door slammed closed. Two steps later Luna pulled her tunic off and helped Harry out of his. By the time, they reached the bed both only wore trousers.
In the corridor, Velath sighed and as quietly as possible pulled the slightly ajar door closed.
"You are jealous?"
Velath turned to see the Zeltron girl Sahdra leaning against the wall.
"What are you doing here?" demanded Velath as a scowl formed on her face.
"Watching you," replied Sahdra with an innocent smile.
"You sh….what, what do you mean watching me?"
Sahdra stepped forward, closer to Velath, "I like you, I like watching you…and feeling your emotions as you watch Master Luna. Loyalty and love are very similar emotions."
"My emotions, love," Velath was having trouble speaking as Sahdra stepped forward again bringing with her a hint of an alluring scent.
"I'm an empath, so I'm pretty wiz at sensing what's going on," explained Sahdra as she reached up to run a finger over the tattoo on Velath's face.
"Don't do that," said Velath as she stepped back, away from the Zeltron.
Sahdra looks crestfallen, "I'm sorry I didn't mean to upset you."
Velath was unsure what to say and before she could come up with something Sahdra smiled sadly and walked off, disappearing around the corner.
oOoOoOo
"How bad was it?" asked Hermione.
Harry took a sip of his butterbeer before answering, "As we flew overhead the Jedi Temple was under attack and burning, so pretty bad."
Ron shook his head, "Bloody hell, I know we'd seen it but…to know it happened outside of our visions."
Harry shifted slightly as Luna leaned against him, "And yet in some ways it was still a victory. Altis pointed out that we've seemingly managed to avoid the least desirable outcome of our visions. The Jedi order has survived and with it, their knowledge and history. We have groups of Force users being gathered here, safe from the Sith."
"And you saved a great many lives and even though Palpatine escaped he's been exposed now. We have gained more time to maneuver," said Remus.
Luna shifted slightly as her expression became serious, "I'm still worried, Harry. I have sensed Palpatine trying to find us, thanks to our training and the Force based wards protecting Haven we have so far escaped his search. Since Coruscant we've sensed something, an echo in the Force, another darker presence behind the Sith."
Everyone in the room knew what Luna was implying and for a few moments no one spoke.
Eventually Sirius broke the silence, "So what do we do?"
"We carry on, warn our people, but we continue our mission," said Hermione. "That the enemy was seeking us out is no surprise."
Harry smiled at his friends words. Hermione would deny it but since coming to Haven she had changed becoming more confident in her abilities and those of her allies. In her youth, she was hesitant now she was decisive. "I think you are right Mione, we don't want to fall into the same trap as the Jedi. We are not the enemies of the Sith, it's not our role to oppose them, we seek balance."
"And this shadowy presence?" asked Sirius.
"Has there been anything similar reported here at Haven? I haven't heard anything reported," said Remus.
"We need to check," said Luna. "It might mean that Harry and I are being targeted ...Lerhra seemed to sense it as well."
"We are going round and round here; we don't know enough to decide on a course of action here and now. So as Hermione said we carry on with our mission and we be careful," said Harry as the others nodded. "The other thing we need to consider is what we do about the Jedi."
"Do we need to do anything?" asked Ron. "You've derailed the Sith's plans and prevented what death's you could."
"It's a fair question," agreed Sirius. "I'm not saying that we wash our hands of them, but we need perspective here."
Harry closed his eyes embraced the Force letting it flow around his awareness as he sought guidance. Within the Force wards of Haven, he didn't sense any presence, that was as he had expected. Slowly he let his consciousness expand, finding connections in the flow of energy.
"Be careful beloved," said a familiar voice.
"Talia," whispered Harry.
"The dark ones cannot sense Haven, not while they have no physical presence in this galaxy. They must work through others..."
"Palpatine," said Harry "That's why we needed to identify the Sith."
"Yes, Palpatine has grown strong, corrupting others and twisting the Force into horrors even the maddest of his brethren would have been repelled by. Remember beloved he seeks to dominate or destroy...he remains a danger to all that you are destined to build."
"I am unsure of my path Master," admitted Harry.
"Protect what can be protected, preserve the knowledge, you must bring balance," whispered Talia.
Harry felt Talia's presence begin to fade.
"The dark ones are seeking to destroy everything about you...everything that threatens them. The Force, Magic...they seek an end to it all before it begins, they seek the source," Talia's presence faded altogether.
"Harry?"
Harry's eyes snapped open to look into Luna's.
"What is it?" asked Luna.
"I think we have a problem,"
oOoOoOo
HoloNet News Special Broadcast
Republic Senate Welcomes Chancellors Return
The full Senate has sat for the first time since the attempted coup led by the Jedi Council. Chancellor Palpatine has roundly condemned the attempt and has vowed to restructure the Republic to make such illegal actions impossible in the future. He has vowed that the restructure will guarantee peace and stability.
In the interests of public safety and order, the military continue to patrol Coruscant and some other important political hubs.
Read more here
Chancellor Tours Damaged Senate Building As Senate Calls For Decisive Action Against Rebel Systems
As Chancellor Palpatine toured the heavily damaged Senate building several prominent senior Senators have called for a decisive military response to the actions of several major systems that remain opposed to the legal government of the Republic.
Ludo Morth was quoted outside his ruined Senate offices, "The leaders of these systems must be made to see reason. The Jedi have manipulated these people and in all likelihood they continue to do so. I call on the Chancellor to deal decisively with these systems so that we do not have to deal with another situation like the separatists."
The Chancellor dismissed fears of another protracted war, "I shall attempt to resolve the political situation peacefully. Let these rebellious systems see our resolution as we enact trade embargos and other sanctions."
Read more here
oOoOoOo
Merchant Ship "Fairwind" – Jedi Refugee Fleet
"Be careful you must, dangerous the core worlds are now," warned Yoda.
"We will be as careful as we can Master Yoda," replied Obi-Wan Kenobi.
"Intelligence we seek Master Kenobi, time for action later it will be," Yoda addressed Kenobi, but his eyes traveled to Anakin and Ahsoka. "May the Force be with you," with that final benediction Yoda's image flickered and disappeared.
"Why does everyone think Anakin and I are going to get into trouble?" complained Ahsoka.
Obi- Wan raised an eyebrow in amused disbelief before studying the navi-comp. "The course is laid in I believe. You have the rendezvous co-ordinates Anakin?"
"Memorized," confirmed Anakin.
"Me too," added Ahsoka.
Obi-Wan gestured for Anakin to take the pilot's seat, "Good so if we are separated make for there."
The freighter shuddered slightly, and several warning lights came on as Anakin begin bringing the systems on-line. "I'm more worried about this rust bucket making it to our destination."
"Master Triel insists that it's completely spaceworthy Anakin, we could hardly fly through Republic space in a Jedi ship," Obi-Wan replied as he sat in a spare seat. "Although I admit that I will be pleased to reach Alderaan."
Ahsoka sat in the co-pilot's seat and started checking the warning lights. "Nothing critical…it looks like the power distribution system more than anything else. I will get R2 to have a look."
A loud warning tone had sounded before the lights flicked, died and then came back on.
Anakin powered down the engines, "Right, there is no way I am activating the hyperspace drive before we have a look at the power systems.…R2?"
It had taken nearly three hours before Anakin was satisfied that the power plant was stable enough to risk hyperspace. R2-D2 had eventually rewired most of the power distribution system.
With a nod to his colleagues, Anakin pushed the hyperspace lever forward.
oOoOoOo
Coruscant
Darth Sidious shuddered as he sat back in his chair. He had failed, once more to find any trace of his foes. Even with his control and his prodigious power he had been denied time and again. Whatever it was that hid them it was beyond his ability to pierce.
"My Lord?"
Sidious didn't need to turn in is chair to identify the speaker, "What is it Dravian?"
Dravian remained kneeling, "A report my Lord, it is unverified, but I felt you should see it."
Sidious turned and extended his hand summoning the data pad held by Dravian. The report was from an agent among the mercantile houses of the Outer Rim worlds. Some individuals that the agent had identified as possibly being Jedi had been spotted buying bulk foodstuffs. The agent had tried to enquire further before they took possession but had somehow failed to find out anything of value. Suppressing his anger at his agent's incompetence he considered the information.
There was no reason for the Jedi to be buying food; the Agricorps had supplied a large surplus. The date was prior to order 66...what did it mean? Had the Jedi been preparing secret bases unbeknownst to him?
"What do you believe Dravian?" Dravian was cunning and he a great deal of knowledge around the Agricorps given his past.
Dravian shook his head, "The Jedi would have no need to buy supplies in bulk. So who else would have the money or need? Outer Rim merchants require hard credits so whoever it is had sufficient money to buy the goods and the ships to haul the goods themselves. These adepts have to feed themselves, I suspect it may be them. It is a pity that Trovas failed to follow through more thoroughly."
"Yes it is, see to it that he is not in a position to do so again," replied Sidious with naked malevolence.
"I will see to it, My Lord."
"Good, I want you to find me an answer Dravian."
"Yes My Lord."
oOoOoOo
Haven
"Bloody hell she meant Earth didn't she?" said Ron as Hermione finished explaining what had happened to the newly arrived Altis.
"It could mean Earth," admitted Remus. "The source...I'm not entirely sure what that means, though. There isn't really a source of magic; you are born with the ability."
Altis ran a hand through his hair as he shook his head, "Perhaps it means something else but can we risk not acting?"
Luna looked worried as she considered what they knew, "Talia's vision was that Harry and I would form the adepts. The adepts mission is to preserve knowledge and hopefully, bring balance to the Force. With that knowledge and some balance, our galaxy will have a chance to defeat an enemy so destructive that we can barely comprehend it. What if that enemy were to find Earth?"
"Then we need to warn Earth," suggested Altis.
Hermione was the first of the Earthborn to respond, "It's not that simple beside a few people in the know, extra-terrestrial intelligent life is science fiction or at best a topic of scientific speculation. Not to mention that there is no central government….well maybe the UN but we would be laughed out of New York if we aren't locked up as lunatics. Even if we took proof of the greater galaxy, actually that might even be worse."
"What do you mean?" asked Sirius.
"I don't fancy be experimented on by the military, how about you?"
Remus looked thoughtful as he considered the situation, "The ICW might believe us but as a body it has little real power."
"Not to mention that it's populated by arch-conservatives," said Sirius. "If we were to take this to the ICW they'd wave the International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy at us and assume that our magic would protect us from some non-wizard threat."
"Tell Dad," suggested Ron. "He knows a lot of people in the ministry, and he gets on well with the minister. We might not be able to tell everyone at once, but we can start letting the right people know."
"And if Palpatine sends a fleet against Earth?" asked Hermione as she thought about her remaining friends and family still on Earth.
"Then we won't have a choice," said Harry.
oOoOoOo
"I wish you would reconsider Harry."
Harry turned to face Altis, "I understand my friend I really do, but I won't leave Haven less well defended than I need to so the Wookie Gunner stays here. The Lily will be fine."
"You will take on a few extra crewmates I assume," Altis conceded the point regarding additional ships. He had argued that they should take at least two ships to Earth.
A lopsided grin appeared on Harry's face, "I don't think that will be a problem, Luna's having to turn people away. At this point, I can't see us needing more people."
"Are you still taking Alyssa?" asked Altis.
"I think so; she is an excellent healer and a great ambassador for Haven."
"And as a non-human she will be very convincing for the non-believers," added Altis with a smile. Once more Harry had proven just how perceptive he could be.
"There is that," agreed Harry.
"Well, I had better get moving as we've got a few issues with the Chu'unthor."
"Oh?"
"Nothing too bad; it is mainly just maintenance work that's backed up while everyone has been busy training here. Well, that and the deflector shields have been working hard to protect the old girl from debris. Callista and Ravis have been working on a repair schedule."
"Any other issues?" asked Harry.
"With the food production improving and with the bulk supplies we purchased that issue is dealt with, which was one of our biggest concerns. The Dathomiri have been a gift from the Force mainly because they count quite a few farmers among their number. The droids had been doing well with the hydroponics but having some experts...well you saw the meals, the variety."
"I did notice although I didn't realize."
Altis grinned and gestured toward the door, "No reason you should have, there's not a lot else and what there is will have to wait I think."
Harry turned to see Sirius, "Did you need me?"
"Remus does, he's been putting together a shopping list with Hermione. Apparently she and Alyssa have been talking, and now her wish list is reaching epic proportions. We are getting worried that we may end up needing a fleet of merchant ships, and she may bankrupt the Black family, not that I care about that. Anyway if we don't get it finalized there is no way we'll be ready to leave in the morning."
Altis laughed at Harry's expression before sobering, "I can see that your busy Harry, you need to be careful my friend. I have a bad feeling that the Sith will not stop with the retreat of the Jedi and Palpatine knows that we are out there somewhere."
oOoOoOo
In high orbit of Corellia –Cintar- Dreadnaught Heavy Cruiser Corellian Defence Fleet
Garm Bel Iblis Senator for Corellia although now it was probably the formerSenator read the HoloNet news with a look of disgust on his face. Palpatine's grab for power was now apparent to any politically adept observer. Given what he now knew it was becoming more and more apparent that the recent war had been almost certainly orchestrated by Palpatine. The Jedi had been duped on a massive scale; by the eternal core the entire republic had been duped. It was only by being off world that he had avoided arrest or worse.
"Garm, the shuttle is just landing," reported his aide Lalida.
"Thank you Lalida, please have them escorted to the main conference room. I will be along shortly."
"Yes Sir," replied Lalida as she left the observation room.
There were decisions to be made and no amount of righteous anger would change the facts. After a few minutes watching Corelli through the oversized viewport Garm took a deep breath and nodded to himself, it was show time.
"Garm, it is good to see you, my friend," said Senator Obal Nor.
Garm nodded, "I am relieved to see all of you safe when Coruscant fell I had feared you all lost or at best hostages."
"We were lucky if we had not received warnings from Senator Amidala and Master Yoda we would have been caught up in events," said Felica Solmarin. The older woman looked exhausted.
"Did any other of the Loyalists survive?" asked Obal.
"I received a short encrypted message from Bail Organa. He and Padmé were amongst a group of Senators evacuated by the Jedi," replied Garm.
"What of Mon Mothma?" asked Felica.
"She got off Coruscant I know that for sure although her ship was destroyed as it lifted off," said Garm. "Her bodyguard used the ship as a decoy."
"That says it all doesn't it, Palpatine is playing for keeps if he is openly attacking his opponents," said Felica in a resigned voice.
"What do we do?" asked Obal.
Garm activated a HoloProjector and an image of the sector appeared, "Prepare to fight but with subtlety. The Corellian Defense fleet won't be able to hold the system against a determined attack so we don't. We move what resources we can from each of our worlds, and we move to the unknown region or the outer rim and begin building a military force to fight Palpatine."
Felica frowned as she considered Garm's words, "Will that be enough? With the Jedi gone who will lead the military?"
"The Jedi have not abandoned you Senator Solmarin," said a voice from the doorway.
The three former Senators turned to see four Jedi entering the room. All four were clad in green robes, a fact not lost on three politicians.
"Green Jedi," whispered Obal. The Corellian Jedi had long been known as the Green Jedi due to the dark green robes that they had adopted. They were rarely seen off Corellia and while they acknowledged the Jedi Council they gave their first allegiance to Corellia.
The eldest of the four stepped forward and bowed, "On behalf of the Corellian Jedi enclave we pledge our service to you Senator Bel Iblis."
Garm had blinked several times before he answered, "I...I thank you, Master?"
"Master Hull," said the eldest before introducing the other Jedi as Masters Cortel, Tar Seras, and Hobban. "We have command of five Defense Force Dreadnaught and their crew as well as two battalions of reserves, all volunteers. Our cousins on Coruscant may have been blindsided but we are now forewarned."
"Have you been attacked?" asked Obal.
Hull nodded, "We had people embedded with the Clone troops mainly in the mid rim, over a dozen of our brethren, four returned to us."
"Have you been in contact with the Jedi Council?" asked Garm.
Cortel nodded, "Master Yoda sent us a message." He left it at that as he recognized the Orders need for secrecy around their relocation. Given the dire situation, they had followed the same example and moved their people into hiding.
Garm nodded and turned his attention to his data pad. It was time to start contacting his political allies and spreading the word.
oOoOoOo
The Burrow – Earth
Arthur Weasley hid his grin as he watched Fleur maneuver herself across the room. The Veela was fast approaching her due date and was doing so with less than good grace. Due to a quirk in biology Veela and many part Veela had a longer gestation. For a full Veela it was twelve months for part Veela it was anywhere between nine and twelve, Fleur looked to be going the whole twelve.
"Are you alright my dear?" asked Molly as she entered the room with a tea tray.
"Oui although I feel like the beach ball," complained Fleur as she sat on the lounge.
'Would you like a cup of tea?"
"DAD FLOO FOR YOU."
"There's no need to yell Ginny," scolded Molly.
Arthur shook his head and walked to the kitchen to find Ginny sitting at the kitchen table reading Witch Weekly and ignoring the head amidst the green flames.
"Arthur, thank Merlin," said a breathless Simon Taterby. Arthur's newest assistant was a recent Hogwarts graduate and a rather good fit being a half-blood who grew up in the Muggle world. "You need to come into the office, Sir."
"What's happened, Simon?"
"There's been a big flap with the Prime Minister's office. The Minister has asked for you to attend a meeting at ten."
Arthur looked at his watch and signed it was already nine; it seemed like a nice relaxed Sunday was off the agenda. "Alright, I'll be in the office in ten minutes."
"Molly have I got clean robes?"
oOoOoOo
Ministry of Magic – Mundane Relations Office
Arthur took a sip of his tea and sighed. Ministry tea was, well it was ministry tea and not a spot on Molly's blend. He managed another sip, and a bite of his crumpet before the newly elected Minister of Magic Amelia Bones walked in followed by the Rufus Scrimgeour the new head of the DMLE.
Amelia was an old acquaintance of Arthur and so didn't hesitate to steal a bite of his crumpet with an unrepentant grin, "Arthur sorry haven't had breakfast yet."
Arthur waved away her complaint, "Simon can you get two more cups of tea and some more crumpets please?"
"Right away Mister Weasley," replied Simon as he scuttled out almost relieved to be out of the room of top floor officials.
"He's new," explained Arthur.
"Ah that explains it," said Amelia while Rufus merely grinned. "Right well I'm sorry to call you in on a Sunday but we've got a situation brewing with the Mundane's." Amelia had been one of the supporters of the changes in the ministry and had been a co-sponsor of the bill that pushed through new bigotry laws. The term Mundane was gradually replacing Muggle as the polite term for the non-magical.
"Right well don't worry about that Minister, tea and crumpet will have to do."
"Well, we've certainly not called you in for something routine. I've had the Prime Minister asking if we have anything to do with these sightings."
"What sightings?" asked Arthur.
"These flying ships...I take it you haven't read the paper yet?" asked Rufus.
Reading select Mundane papers was now expected on Senior Ministry officials as Minister Bones would not accept ignorance of the non-magical as an excuse.
"My daughter in law is staying with us, she is quite a way along." explained Arthur.
Rufus nodded, he knew how that went his eldest was pregnant again. "Well apparently there have been sightings, credible sightings of,..what's the word...ah yes unidentified flying objects. The Prime Minister wants to know if it's magic."
Arthur didn't know what to say to that, so he considered his options as Simon hustled back in with a tray.
"Simon is it?" asked Rufus.
"Yes, Sir."
"Have you got the Sunday Times out there?"
"Yes Sir I'll get it for you," Simon disappeared for a moment returning with the paper.
"Good man, thank you," said Rufus as Simon quickly left the room.
Arthur read the front page with a frown; it looked different but similar enough that he recognized the starship on the front page.
"So what do you think a prankster?" asked Amelia. She knew Arthur had experience dealing with just such pranks in the past. "Are you alright Arthur?" The red haired wizard had paled as he read the front page.
Arthur sighed and lowered the paper. He had hoped that he wouldn't be in this situation, but there was not a choice now. "Simon please establish the privacy ward."
Simon nodded and after a few moments the background sounds deadened and then disappeared.
Amelia raised an eyebrow as she peered at her subordinate through her monocle, "Arthur what's going on?"
"You know how I told you, Hermione, Ron and Harry were abroad studying?"
oOoOoOo
Once Amelia and Rufus emerged from the Pensive Amelia turned a gimlet eye toward Arthur.
"Why in Morgana's name didn't you say anything Arthur?" demanded Amelia.
Arthur winced, before straightening, "Well it was a bit outside of our jurisdiction."
Rufus laughed, "He's got you there Amelia." He quickly sobered however as Amelia frowned.
"Sorry...but well I'm not sure what to say...l Aliens, Alien Wizards, the Prime Minister, Merlin the world is going to go crazy over this if it gets out."
"Right well we have to face the bloody Prime Minister in half an hour so what the hell do I say?"
Rufus shook his head, "As much as I hate to say it we might have to stall here. We don't want to start a panic."
Amelia opened her mouth and then shut it before sighing, "You are right we might have to lie to keep order here, at least until we have a better handle on events. Damn, I don't want to turn into Fudge!"
"Politics at its best," grumbled Rufus.
"How long will it take Potter to get here?" asked Amelia.
"Umm, I'm not sure. I can ask," explained Arthur.
"After the meeting we'll all have a discussion. Right now you two can help me prepare for our meeting."
oOoOoOo
It was an agitated Hermione that knocked on Harry and Luna's door.
"Hermione, what's wrong?" asked Luna as she pulled the door open.
"We've got a problem."