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"All we have is to live"
Chapter XXXVI
A trepidation clenched down upon Mora's heart hearing her worst fear – she had failed to protect her Queen. "Is her Highness all right!?" The handmaiden shouted helplessly.
The stormtrooper looked at her from behind his helmet, he decided to be straight up with her. "Her Highness was wounded in the shoulder in the attack, but Lady Nadara managed to subdue the would-be assassin."
Either by adrenaline, or pure instinct, Mora brushed passed the stormtrooper, but was promptly gabbed by the arm.
"I'm sorry handmaiden, but you can't pass yet."
"That's right, I'm a handmaiden to her Royal Highness! We took a solemn vow to protect her from harm, and right now I need to be by her side! If you want to stop me, you'll have to shoot me!"
She did not know if it was her time spent with Ruvino, or that kiss, or perhaps something otherworldly that had emboldened her, but Mora had made a promise to him, and she was going to keep it – or die trying.
The stormtrooper loosened his grip. He observed a certain fire within her eyes, she was completely unafraid of him, and like him, willing to die for her honorable duty. It was a value he understood fully from being raised among the other Jango Fett clones on Kamino.
"All right, I'll see you into the palace," the stormtrooper spoke in Jango Fett's voice.
Mora was led inside the palace by the stormtrooper, inside the Grand Hall she could see a small blood trail. Setting down the wicker basket and mended Royal gown, Mora followed the blood trail, what she saw next horrified her. One of her fellow handmaidens was lying on her left side, a blaster pistol resting on the floor next to her limp hand. Mora quickly ran to her side and pulled her body onto its back. A single mortified gasp escaped Mora's throat when she saw Ellé's lifeless brown eyes staring back up at her.
Tenderly, Mora reached down and took hold of Ellé's face in between her hands, hoping that maybe, just maybe Ellé would blink, but Ellé did not respond, her lifeless body still warm.
"Ellé! Oh, Ellé no…" Mora covered her mouth and wept quietly. She did not know Ellé too well, but that mattered little to her, her tender heart still grieved. The two of them only interacted when on duty, Ellé was a very private person. What she did know of Ellé was she wanted to become an artist after completing her service as a handmaiden, and now she would never get that chance.
For the first time, Mora stared upon a dead individual, the brightness of their burning soul extinguished. During the Imperial invasion of Naboo, Mora and her family took refuge inside their home and did not come out until the aftermath. During the invasion, her father grabbed a blaster and was prepared to defend his home and family, fortunately they were lucky, and it never came down to that, and she was spared seeing the carnage that ensued that night.
"Mora!" A familiar voice called. It was Dolamé, Mora's only other friend within the Royal palace.
"Dolamé! What's happened here!? Ellé… She's…"
"I know…" Dolamé said with sadness and regret. "She confronted the assassin sent here to kill the Queen, she was stabbed and shot. She managed to limp out here before finally succumbing to her wounds."
"How is her Highness? I was told she was wounded…" Mora said standing up and facing Dolamé.
"She was minorly grazed in the shoulder, she's being treated now in her chambers, and is expected to make a full recovery," Dolamé answered, walking over and joining her compatriot.
Mora, her heart while feeling a sense of relief that Queen Servana was not permanently injured, wept for Ellé. In a display of solidarity and comfort, Dolamé hugged her friend.
"Well, isn't this sickeningly sweet?" Permé commented, stepping into view. The two handmaidens remained silent as Permé stepped towards them. "Well, I see you're back Mora. I suppose it's a good thing you were away, otherwise you might have taken Ellé's place on the floor here."
Dolamé gasped in disgust, her eyes fuming with indignant anger. "How can you say that!? One of our own just paid the ultimate sacrifice today in service to her Queen, and you treat us like we're-we're cannon fodder?"
Permé balked and waved her hand dismissively in the air before glaring at Mora. "Well, Lady Nadara is in the Royal bedchambers with her Highness, now that you've returned, she wants to see you, but first why don't you prepare some berries you brought back? I'm sure it would raise the Queen's spirits."
"Yes, Permé," Mora answered.
"I'll go with you," Dolamé added, following Mora to the table where the wicker basket was resting.
Together the pair entered the nearby kitchen and Dolamé assisted in washing and sanitizing the berries.
"What happened here while I was gone?" Mora asked as she washed some berries in her hand.
"We had a couple of maintenance workers stop by, at the behest of the Queen. One of them checked the electrical systems in the palace, the other the plumbing. The plumber turned out to be an assassin. He pulled a knife and a blaster. Ellé put herself in between him and the Queen, she was shot on the arm while reaching for her pistol, and then she was stabbed. The Queen was able to run away, but was struck on the shoulder. Ellé managed two shots, but she missed. Soon afterwards, Lady Nadara appeared and killed him – struck him down with her lightsaber," Dolamé explained, drying the berries and placing them inside a crystalline container.
"And where was Lady Nadara, she was not by the Queen's side?" A perplexed Mora questioned.
"No, she was called away by Permé, I don't know what the two were discussing at the time."
A scowl formed over Mora's face. "I can't stand her," she said without even thinking, but she didn't have to. Mora's disdain for Permé was instinctive at this point.
A very small laugh huffed through Dolamé's nose. "That makes two of us."
Mora finished cleaning the last batch of berries and carried them over to the nearby countertop and began placing them into the crystalline container. She glanced long-faced into Dolamé's green eyes. She wanted to tell her about the incident earlier with Permé, but she did not know how go about it. Dolamé, sensing something was amiss took the initiative. "What's on your mind?"
Permé… Ellé… Mirala… Everyone, Mora thought briefly before sobering and deciding to take it from the top. "Earlier, Permé struck me across the face."
Dolamé reacted instantly and drew Mora into a supportive and sisterly embrace. "Oh, Mora… That's terrible. I'm not surprised though… Given the incident the other day where she purposely tripped you," she said before taking hold of Mora's face and looking at it carefully, but could find no evidence of marks. "Did Lady Nadara heal you again?"
Mora's thoughts went to Ruvino. Recalling how the Queen was going to install listening devices in the palace, Mora could not tell her friend the whole story – at least not here. Mora shook her head, but before her compatriot could respond, Mora placed a finger gently on Dolamé's lips to quiet her.
Reaching for a tablet on the nearby counter, Mora began tapping the screen; writing a small message before handing it over to her friend. Dolamé took it and glanced at the screen:
Can't tell you here, talk outside when we're both free.
Dolamé looked up and gave Mora a somewhat confused expression, but nodded silently. What sort of intrigue is going on here? She wondered.
Taking the tablet back, Mora promptly deleted what she wrote across the screen and replaced it in her hands with the container of berries. "Come, let's greet her Highness and tend to her."
Both, Dolamé and Mora moved to exit the kitchen but stopped in their tracks when they captured a glimpse of Permé leaning over Ellé's body and was moving her around. The pair pulled back into the kitchen and carefully peered their heads around the corner, spying on the handmaiden chieftain.
"What is she doing?" Dolamé whispered.
"I… Don't know," Mora replied in a state of confusion.
Morbidly, Permé began posing the deceased Ellé like she was a mannequin: Gently folding one arm above her head and the other next to her side.
Permé stared at Ellé and seemed to be admiring her; in a very demented and twisted way.
Taking the back of her hand Permé gently began caressing Ellé's face. "Beautiful… Just beautiful," she stated softly to herself.
The sick display before Mora was almost too much to bear. She pulled herself back into the kitchen and clutched onto her stomach, feeling it churning. It was all too obvious to Mora that Permé wasn't just a bully who craved power; she was also very mentally disturbed, and that fact made her an extremely dangerous person.
"Oh…My…Gods…" Dolamé uttered. Like Mora, Dolamé felt deeply perturbed from the macabre scene she had just witnessed. Turning to her friend, Dolamé's eyes became alarmed. "We need to do something about her, she'll be the death of us all someday."
Mora nodded in agreement. She knew Dolamé's assessment was correct, if Permé ever achieved a position of high power, it was self-evident to her what Permé would do with it. However, now was not the time or place to discuss such matters. "Come, her Highness needs us," she stated, taking lead and quickly exiting the kitchen, with Dolamé in tow.
As the pair journeyed through the Grand Hall, Dolamé contemplated why Mora was acting a little strange. Her private message to her in the kitchen told her that Mora had discovered some revelation that she wasn't privy to discuss. She worried that her friend had discovered something sinister within the palace. She would not be surprised if that turned out to be the case, given the recent happenings on Naboo.
First, Queen Apailana had been deposed for being in league with the Rebel Alliance, then the Emperor appointed Mirala Andrierrie as Queen. Dolamé had been a late addition to the handmaiden crew and was not present when Mirala was brought in. She had heard what happened to the new Queen from Mora, telling her Emperor Palpatine had brainwashed her, and at first refused to believe such a story. As time went by, and as she tended to the Queen on a daily basis she came to the realization that Mora was right. Permé had told her in passing it would be in her best interest to keep her mouth shut about what goes in in the palace and that they all served the Empire. If any had any doubts about their duties it may land them in a detention center.
Like the Emperor she so admired, Permé used fear to keep the other handmaidens in line, although Dolamé was unsure how many of them were quiet dissidents, and who supported the Empire. Joré, one of the other handmaidens was Permé's little brown-nose, and she knew better than to trust her. Ellé was a quiet and reserved person, but she knew her a little better than Mora did. In passing Ellé had told her how it unnerved her tending to a someone who was almost a zombie. Now, Ellé lay dead in the Grand Hall, how many more of them would have to die defending an unpopular leader? If only the Naboo knew the truth about what was happening, if only they knew Servana has been brainwashed.
The two now found themselves at the Royal bed chambers' door, Dolamé gave it a few knocks for Mora. The door opened and the pair found themselves staring at Joré. She was about average height, with brown eyes and blonde hair that was concealed under the hood of her cloak.
"Nice of you two to finally drop by," Joré said. She spoke in a high voice that Dolamé found rather akin to sounding like fingernails on an ancient chalkboard.
Dolamé responded with a sarcastic smile. "Charming as always Joré. We're here to tend to her Highness, we brought some of her favorite berries."
With a hand gesture, Joré invited them in before stepping outside. Both Mora and Dolamé paid no mind to her as she departed. They saw Queen Servana resting in her bed, a physician stood at the edge of the bed and was talking with the Barriss Offee. She glanced over and motioned for the two handmaidens to come forward.
"Mora, Dolamé, this is Doctor Paulo Malatesta, the physician in charge of her Highness' healthcare," Barriss introduced.
Doctor Malatesta was a tall lanky man with short brown hair and matching eyes. He nodded over towards the two handmaidens before sliding a medical instrument he was using on the Queen's shoulder back inside medical case and closed it. "Well, her wound was not serious, all mended now. But I recommend that she get plenty of rest for the next day. Her body has endured a shock, and she needs bedrest. Thank you for your hospitality Lady Nadara."
"You're welcome Doctor, and thank you for promptly coming. Dolamé, would you mind escorting Doctor Malatesta out?"
"Not at all Lady Nadara, Doctor, if you please?" Dolamé asked, moving towards the door.
Doctor Malatesta gave a bow before following the handmaiden out.
Mora walked over to Barriss' side, still holding the container of berries in her hands. She glanced down at the sleeping Queen Servana. Despite her pale appearance she looked incredibly peaceful – in a surreal sort of way. Mora could not help but recall the fairy tales she listened to as a little girl and thought all the sleeping Queen needed was a kiss from a handsome Prince to be awoken from her terrible spell.
Almost as if Servana could sense her presence, she opened her eyes and looked up. "Mora," she spoke in a very soft voice that almost had inflection behind it.
"Yes, I'm back your Highness, and look, I've brought your favorite; nara berries," Mora exclaimed with enthusiasm.
The Queen's eyes fell upon the container, and for just a moment, Mora could have sworn she saw Mirala, not Servana behind them.
Mora lowered the container and offered a savory fruit to the Queen.
Slowly, but deliberately, Servana plucked the berry from Mora's hand and ate it. "Thank you, Mora," she said before staring blankly ahead. "Ru-vino… Mother," Servana whispered before her eyes rolled into the back of her head and passed out against her pillow.
"Your Highness!?" Mora worriedly called out. For just a brief moment it had appeared as if Mirala had managed to break free from her spell. "What happened?" Mora questioned, turning to Barriss.
Wanting to keep their conversation strictly confidential, Barriss gently led Mora out onto the adjacent terrace connected to the Royal bed chambers. Overlooking the palace yard Barriss freely spoke to the handmaiden.
"She's waging a battle within herself, but the moment Mirala comes close to breaking through, the Emperor's will reasserts itself over her. She is… Beyond my power, or to be specific, she needs more than what my Jedi powers alone can do for her," Barriss stated with regret.
"She needs her brother, Ruvino," Mora said.
"She also needs Anakin Skywalker," Barriss added.
"Anakin Skywalker?" The handmaiden gasped in surprise. "Padmé Amidala's Jedi husband?"
Barriss nodded. "Yes, he's the most powerful Jedi in the galaxy. If anyone can help us free her soul, it's him."
Mora turned, looking through the tall glass doors, focusing her eyes on the unconscious Queen Servana in her bed. Then we'll take her to him, whatever it takes. Mora's thoughts trailed away, wondering where in the galaxy Anakin Skywalker may be.
"I'm going to have to inform the Emperor what has transpired here today," Barriss stated ominously.
Mora's heart sank at Barriss' statement. The Emperor, the scourge of the galaxy. She looked back at the former Lady of Darkness with a glum expression. All Mora could do was nod helplessly.
Looking on at the palace grounds below her, Mora began thinking once more about Ellé, uncovering her body and then witnessing Permé desecrating it like Ellé was nothing more but a doll for her amusement, it disturbed her in a way she never felt before.
A gust of cold air brushed behind Mora, she felt now as if someone had stepped over her grave. With a foreboding shudder, she wrapped her arms around herself instinctively.
"What's wrong?" Barriss asked.
Mora choked up, finding it very difficult to speak suddenly. "It's… Ellé. I found her lying dead in the Grand Hall when I returned. It was the first time I looked upon someone who had died… I didn't know her very well, but she's still one of us, still a person. I can't find the words to explain how upset I am over it… And-and then Permé, I-I saw her posing Ellé like a doll, and she said Ellé was beautiful now that she was dead…" Mora could not hold back any longer, she placed her face inside her hands and wept.
All Mora wanted at this moment was to be held and comforted by Ruvino. I've never seen people die before… Maybe I'm not cut out for this after all? She wondered, feelings of doubt and anxiety pouring over her like an unrelenting rainstorm, threatening to drown her. Mora closed her eyes and remembered what she said to Ruvino earlier: "It's a handmaiden's duty to protect her Queen, with her life if necessary." Mora now fully realized the truth of her earlier statement, and Ellé had paid that ultimate sacrifice in defense of Queen Servana. However, making a statement of fact and seeing it play out were two very different things. For Mora, the reality of that was as harsh as a Tatooine sandstorm.
"Mora," Barriss said gently.
The handmaiden opened her eyes and looked at her. Barriss could easily see the apprehension and grief intertwined behind her hazel orbs. The web of Mora's powerful emotions flowed into the living Force like the shockwave of a star going supernova.
"I know what you're feeling, and I understand…" As she spoke, Barriss had flashbacks of killing Queen Apailana's handmaidens in that now destroyed cathedral. Calling them killings would be conservative – Barriss as Lady Nadara slaughtered them without mercy, without compunction. Now those screams of her victims haunted her like spectral demons chasing her through an endless maze that wanted to drag her to Hell. No, she had to maintain her focus, Mora, Mirala, Anakin, Padmé, they were all depending on her on Naboo to be the heart of the Resistance.
"But," the former Sith Lady continued, "I need you to remain strong, we are currently faced with a clear choice: Either fight for freedom or live as slaves. We cannot turn our backs now, lest Ellé's sacrifice be in vain. As for Permé, I will try to find a way to deal with her."
"Please, you must! She's a menace! She struck me this morning."
Barriss' eyes briefly looked away in regret. "I'm sorry I wasn't there to stop her… I've looked inside her heart, I've seen how dark it is. It's a good thing she isn't Force sensitive. Despite that, I think Emperor Palpatine has a plan for her. Whatever that might be, I'm not sure yet… For all I know he could be vying to have a concubine…"
"That's," Mora began, unable to wrap her mind around the thought of Palpatine fornicating, "that's so repulsive…"
"You'll get no argument from me."
Suddenly, Barriss' Force senses alerted her to an incoming presence. She straightened her head and made an about face. "Someone's coming, I can sense them." The pair then re-entered the Royal bedchambers.
Not two seconds later a soft knock then came at the bed chambers door, Mora answered it and saw Dolamé on the other side. "I'm sorry to disturb you and Lady Nadara, but Colonel Braxton is here and he wants a sit-rep."
"I'll see to it and contact the Emperor afterwards, thank you Dolamé," Barriss then stepped outside and turned her head back to Mora. "Why don't we let her Highness rest for a little while? She'll be all right for the time being."
"All right," Mora agreed and gently closed the door to make as little noise as possible.
While Barriss moved away from them Mora mouthed the word "outside" to Dolamé and gestured with her head for her friend to follow her.
Dolamé curled her eyebrows in confusion but followed Mora through the Grand Hall and to the outside of the palace. Dolamé nearly tripped on the heels of her shoes as she moved to keep pace with the fast-moving Mora.
"Mora, what's going on?" She asked, unsettled by her friend's recent behavior.
"Dolamé," Mora said, looking around to make sure the two were alone, "we're friends right, and I can trust you yes?"
"Of course!" Dolamé replied without falter.
"Well, when I was inside the Queen's chambers this morning gathering her gown to take in to be mended, I overheard a conversation she had with Emperor Palpatine. Dolamé, he instructed her to bug the palace with listening devices," Mora explained.
Dolamé paused as the realization dawned on her. Mora's almost paranoid behavior now made sense to her. "I'm not surprised honestly, but what else? I sense there's more to the story, and what about your face?"
"Lady Nadara did not heal me… Mirala's brother, Ruvino did."
Dolamé's eyes grew wide as saucers. "Wait, run that by me again?!"
Mora sighed in vexation. "I was out and ran into Mirala – Queen Servana's brother, Ruvino. He's a Jedi Padawan…"
Dolamé grabbed Mora and pulled her aside and looked at her sternly. "You mean to tell me you've been having secret rendezvous with this man?"
"Yes."
"Consorting with a Jedi?"
Mora nodded.
Dolamé exhaled through her mouth, she was in a state of shock from this news. "Do you realize you can be locked up for this?"
"It's a risk I'm willing to take… Dolamé, someone has to stop what's happening on Naboo, someone has to have the courage to free Queen Servana from being brainwashed. Damnit Dolamé, it's wrong!" Mora stated passionately.
Dolamé held onto Mora's shoulders tightly and maintained eye contact before softening her stare. Her conscience screamed at her that Mora was correct and on point.
"I agree with you, I've seen many disturbing things in this palace in such a short time… So, you reached out to her Highness' brother then?"
Mora shook her head. "No, he was already training to be a Jedi so he could rescue his sister before I met him," she purposefully neglected to mention Ruvino had only just begun his training right before she met him.
After taking in what she had just been told, Dolamé gently let go of Mora's shoulders and took a look around her, they were still alone, nevertheless, she lowered her voice. "So… If he's a Jedi Padawan, that must mean there are more Jedi still on Naboo."
For the moment, Mora could not tell Dolamé the remaining Jedi was in fact Lady Nadara. All she could say was "yes".
Dolamé turned around and rested her arms on top of the large stone baluster that overlooked the palace grounds, she seemed to be in deep contemplation. "You should have been here earlier, when the assassin attacked. I was not with her Highness, I instead was in the library re-organizing the books. I could hear Ellé shouting, and then she screamed, I ran out and saw her limping through the Grand Hall. She told me what happened and I went after the assassin, by the time I got there, Lady Nadara had already dispatched the assassin. She summoned the doctors and calmed her Highness with her powers," Dolamé paused briefly and swallowed hard. "A little while later, when we got back to the Grand Hall, Ellé had succumbed to her wounds."
A heartbroken Mora moved next to Dolamé and slipped her arms around her. The two women held onto one another comfortingly. "The Queen has been brainwashed by the Emperor… A handmaiden has a solemn duty to protect her Queen from harm. You're right Mora, we can't let this continue, we have to help her," Dolamé said, resting her head on Mora's shoulder as her eyes began to water.
Mora could hear Dolamé sniffle. Instinctively, she tightened her embrace, not wanting her friend to be alone, not wanting to let go.
"We also protect each other," Mora stated matter-of-factly.
"Which is why I can't let you do this alone Mora," Dolamé added, reaching a firm decision to stand by her friend and do what she felt was right.
Withdrawing from Dolamé, Mora took in a long breath, for she would have a long story to tell.
The hour was now 7PM and Ruvino was just sitting down at the dining table to have dinner with his mother. He was most excited to be eating his favorite dish: Jambalaya Theed Style. It was a dish that consisted of spiced rice, meat, and sometimes seafood from Naboo's oceans, although Ruvino preferred it without the seafood.
"Oh, I could smell the heavenly aroma all the way from my bedroom!" Ruvino exclaimed, rubbing his hands together in anticipation.
"Well, you're worth it. I hope you enjoy it," Athala replied with a gentle smile, sitting down at the table across from her son.
After savoring a couple bites, Ruvino glanced at his mother. "Mom, the ingredients for this are expensive… Where did you get the money?"
It was a question she dreaded answering. Athala had hoped the two of them could enjoy their dinner without him asking. "Your mentor, she gave me some extra credits."
Ruvino blinked. "W-what? I can't believe it… That does it, tomorrow I'm hitting the sabacc tables. We shouldn't live on charity," he growled.
"Ruvino, no!" Athala pleaded, slamming her silverware down onto the table. A gesture that certainly caught her son's attention. "The last time you almost got killed! You gamble with the dregs of society!" Athala protested.
"That's because they're the ones with the most money! It wasn't my fault last time, Navarro was cheating!" Ruvino countered.
"No, you aren't doing it again. I don't care, and that's the end of it!"
Ruvino recoiled, he may be an adult now, but she was still his mother, and she was firmly laying down the law to her son. He acquiesced to his mother and nodded in obedience.
"I like Mora, she seems like a very sweet young lady," Athala remarked, wanting to shift the conversation to a more pleasant topic. She noticed her son blushing across from her.
"Yes, yes, she is," Ruvino answered softly, thinking back to kissing Mora earlier.
A knock at the front door interrupted Ruvino's trip down memory lane. "I'll get it mom," he said, getting up and answering the door. On the other side it was Lucas Althrum, leader of the Nubian Partisans, and longtime family friend who served alongside his father, Brevin Andrierrie.
"Hello Ruvino, can I come in?" Lucas asked.
Ruvino opened the door and stepped aside, allowing Lucas to enter. It was not long before Athala rushed to greet him with a hug. Ever since Ruvino's father had been killed, Lucas would visit from time-to-time to check up on them. When he heard what had happened to Mirala, it was the last straw for him. He then quietly set out to establish an organized Resistance group now known as the Nubian Partisans to resist the Imperial occupation of Naboo.
"I come bringing dessert, courtesy of Anara, she sends her best as always," Lucas said handing Athala a small box that contained a home baked pie.
"Oh, thank you Lucas, I'm sure Ruvino and I will love it!"
After a gentle beat, Lucas' expression turned serious.
"What is it?" Athala questioned.
"There was an assassination attempt on the Queen earlier today."
"What!?" Athala and Ruvino blurted out simultaneously.
Lucas held up his hand to calm them. "Mirala's all right, she's okay. The assassin failed and was dealt with I have heard. Athala, you must know he was not one of my people."
"Lucas, please, you have to do something, get her out of there!" Athala pleaded.
"It's not that simple mom! We still have to figure out a way to free her mind from Palpatine's hold. It wasn't simple brainwashing he employed on Mirala, he used his Sith powers," Ruvino added impulsively.
Lucas glanced at the young man, arching a brow. "And what do you know son?"
Athala shot her son a wide-eyed glance. She knew he had unintentionally spilled the beans he had high profile inside knowledge of what was happening on Naboo.
For a moment, Ruvino did not say a word, becoming fully aware he had spoken without thinking. He thought to keep his explanation simple, and minimal. "I know the Emperor is actually a Sith Lord, and he used those powers to drain Mirala of her life force, chain her mind to his."
Lucas took a few steps towards Ruvino. "You're quite right about that, but how do you know that?"
Ruvino looked at his mother and then back at Lucas. He remained silent.
Lucas sighed and ran a hand through his short black hair. He was a man of average height, slightly wide bodied, and had strong, determined blue eyes. He went to the RSF academy where he met Brevin, the two struck up a long-standing friendship. Lucas had watched the Andrierrie children grow up, and felt a family kinship with them. Now he was concerned, concerned that that Ruvino might be getting himself involved in a situation he wanted to protect him from.
"Ruvino, please answer me," Lucas said gently, but there was a stern almost fatherly tone to his voice.
"I know somebody who's in the Empire who has been talking to me about what is going on here," Ruvino answered, trying to be as simple as he could. He would not divulge the identity of his master, even though she was also the source of Lucas' information and was coordinating with him. Lucas did not know who she was, and Ruvino wanted to keep it that way.
Something else caught Lucas' attention, he could see the shine of metal from the inside of the short jacket Ruvino was wearing. "And what's that you got there, inside your jacket?"
Athala closed her eyes with regret, for she knew what was coming.
Ruvino tightened his jaw and reached inside his jacket and handed Lucas his lightsaber.
"Do you know what this is!?" A flabbergasted Lucas asked.
"Yes, it's a lightsaber."
"You realize you could be executed for being in possession of one? Where did you get this?"
"I built it."
Before Lucas could respond, Ruvino held up his hand and willed his lightsaber to return to his palm.
Lucas' face dropped, the revelation smacking him in the face like a runaway speeder. "You're Force sensitive?"
"Yes Lucas. Me and Brevin hid him from the Jedi Order when he was born. We've kept it a secret… Until now," Athala explained.
The former RSF Colonel and friend of the Andrierrie family paced back and forth in a deliberate manner, eyeing the young man he had known since birth, who suddenly seemed to be a stranger now before him. "You couldn't have done this alone Ruvino. That means there's still Jedi on Naboo. That's how you know about the Emperor being a Sith," Lucas stated, his expression becoming grim.
"Lucas, you say it like it's a bad thing!"
"Because it is a bad thing Ruvino. If the Empire finds out there are Jedi here on Naboo, they will commit the fullest extent of their forces to find and eliminate them." Lucas looked to Athala. "And that includes you son."
Casting aside Lucas' reservations, Ruvino lifted his head, his expression filled with pride. "I am learning the ways of the Force so I can rescue Mirala, and then I will join the Partisans to-"
"You will not be joining the Partisans," Lucas interrupted.
Ruvino's arms dropped to his side. How dare he say such a thing, does he really think he can keep me from saving my sister? Who does he think he is? "What? How can you say that!? You need my help! Once I am trained I will have the necessary skills to be an invaluable asset to you!"
"Introducing a Jedi into the Partisans would be a surefire way of raining hell down to Naboo."
"Take a look around you Lucas!" Ruvino stretched out and opened his arms. "We're in hell already!"
"Ruvino, that's enough!" Athala spoke in a firm but gentle voice.
With a long sigh, the Colonel rank a hand through his greying hair. "Son, no one in our ranks wants that. Our mission is to provide covert intelligence to the Rebel Alliance, while engaging in clandestine operations that will lead to the liberation of our homeworld. You also aren't trained in covert tactics. Having a Jedi among us would introduce a disruptive element to a critical situation."
Ruvino's eyes fumed, he was beside himself. Disruptive element?! He thought before opening his mouth to plead his case."I… Can't believe what I'm hearing!" The young man turned his back. "What if I promise then not to use the Force and fight only with a blaster?"
Lucas shook his head, remaining unwavering in his stance. "No, that is simply not good enough. What if you were put into a situation where you instinctively used the Force?" The aged RSF veteran let out an exasperated sigh and ran a hand through his greying hair. "Ruvino listen, I am trying to protect you."
"Stop… Treating me like I'm a child!" Ruvino yelled, feeling a certain darkness bellowing within him.
Both Athala and Lucas froze, exchanging worrisome glances before looking back at Ruvino.
"No one is treating you like a child. I just don't want to see you embroiled in a situation you can't handle, or just simply having your mere presence being enough to incur the full wrath of the Emperor. Training to be a Jedi? Ruvino think, you wouldn't be safe anywhere in the galaxy. The Jedi, or what's left of them don't have a lot of friends these days, and you're not exactly Anakin Skywalker. Let's not forget the Jedi failed to protect the Republic, we're better off without their help. Me and Lanara have never been so blessed with children like your mother and father, but I've watched you grow up. The man I'm seeing before me now… He isn't the same Ruvino I've known all these years." It pained Lucas to say those words, but he felt the young man needed to be served a cold dish of the harsh reality of the galaxy he'd seen.
Ruvino huffed and bit his lip. The darkness bellowing within him was now growing into a thunderstorm of rage. Not exactly Anakin Skywalker? I'll show you, I'll show all of you! He thought, wanting to grab his lightsaber and run away to the palace to free Mirala and prove Lucas wrong. Only the pleading voice of his master, Barriss Offee in the back of his mind prevented him from doing something that might be foolhardy.
"So, you don't think I can handle it? And you're right, I'm not the same man I was a short time ago. Losing your father and having your sister kidnapped changes you. Remember when me and Mirala were little? How you always said if we needed anything you'd always help? That no matter what we would never be alone? Where's your help now?" Ruvino spoke, the indignance in his voice becoming more apparent.
The near middle-aged RSF veteran took a few firm steps towards Ruvino and stared him down. "I'm trying to help you by advising you to think and not commit to a world you know little to nothing about. Let's say you as a Jedi free Mirala and incur the Empire's wrath? What then? Would you leave Naboo? Because the only one who would probably give you refuge is Padmé Skywalker," Lucas stopped, it felt strange to him calling her by that name. In addition, he had lost some respect for her upon learning she had secretly married a Jedi, feeling it made her a less than honorable woman.
"Then I'll find her," Ruvino said determinedly.
A dismayed Lucas shook his head. "And leave your life and everything you have known and loved behind? Who would take care of your mother? And what about Mirala? Would you leave her alone too? Perhaps it's time for the Jedi to come to an end. Ruvino, I've seen a lot of good men die over the years, including your father… If you follow the Jedi path you will be throwing your life away. You will end up dead or hunted to the ends of the universe like all the rest of them. Mark my words, this will be a decision that will haunt you for the rest of your life. Now, you're a grown man, you can make your own choices, but that doesn't change my opinion you're making a fatal mistake."
"Then I guess I really am alone, after all," Ruvino answered sullenly.
Situated in a massive drydock was the flagship of the Alliance: The Liberator. Nestled alongside it was the Queen of Naboo's Royal Starship. It's chrome plating gleaming brightly under the heavy lights of the drydock facility. Various shuttlecraft scurried about delivering supplies and engineering teams between the two vessels.
Aboard the Queen's yacht Anakin Skywalker once more was sitting at a small work bench where he labored on a special modification to Padmé's lightsaber. She had come to him the other day with a very radical proposal; she asked if it would be possible to develop a blaster add-on that could attach to the hilt. At first Anakin thought the idea of combining the two weapons was almost heresy, Obi-Wan lamented how "uncivilized" it was. However, after getting over the initial surprise of her proposal he came to realize it just might suit her fighting style perfectly.
"That for mommy?" A curious Luke said, poking his head around R2-D2, who hovering around Anakin, was watching his every move with intent interest.
"Yes, it is son, she's getting an upgrade to her lightsaber," Anakin replied with a smile.
"Can I have?"
Anakin snickered. "No, not until you get a little older Luke."
The young boy pouted in response.
"Luke, what have we talked about you making that face?"
"That it won't get me what I want."
"Exactly."
The little Jedi's expression then softened. His blue eyes locked on to to his father working intricately and meticulously on his mother's lightsaber. Leia was back in their quarters with her mother.
When Anakin left to work on Padmé's lightsaber, Luke had insisted on accompanying his father, it was one of the few times he had done an activity exclusively with his son in a while, as Luke and Leia usually did everything together, and that included activities with their parents. This activity however was father and son bonding time.
With a twist of his hands, Anakin secured the small blaster add-on to the hilt of the lightsaber, it was powered by the kyber crystal from within the hilt chassis. The barrel of the blaster faced perpendicular to the lightsaber's blade when ignited. Anakin felt this was the best position that would allow Padmé to both swing her blade, and fire the blaster simultaneously if need be. It might even make for a nasty surprise the next time he dueled with her.
Anakin held the weapon up and grinned; admiring his handiwork. Am I good or what?
"Papa, done?"
"Mmmhmm, all finished! Let's go surprise your mother with it!"
"Okay!" Luke answered with a hop and a skip, much to the amusement of his father.
"Artoo, come on, Anakin gestured with his head, leading them now through the corridors of the ship.
For Anakin Skywalker, there was no greater joy – no greater fulfillment in his life than being a father. There was also no greater challenge for him than being the same. Sure, he may have been the "Chosen One", but he cared little for the ancient prophecy. What he cared most about was family. Growing up without a father, he had no idea what to expect when his own children arrived or even how to be a parent. Even learning to utilize the Force and wielding a lightsaber was simplistic, almost second nature by comparison. He hated the Galactic Civil War, longing for it to be over so he and Padmé could devote most of their time to raising Luke and Leia.
How are our children going to even receive a proper education? On a starship? Always on the run? I don't want that for them. I want them to go to school, be surrounded by other children their age, make friends, play, have fun, do things normal children should do, Anakin thought while he and Luke traversed the brightly lit corridors of the Queen's yacht. Taking one look at his happy son he knew however his children were anything but normal. My children, there's a special destiny waiting for them, just like me and Padmé. Anakin just hoped his children would not have to make the same sacrifices in their lives that he and Padmé had to.
While navigating through the corridor, the father and son passed by several engineers and technicians who were prepping the Queen's yacht for a refit and overhaul. The ship was going to be retrofitted with a new cockpit which would include two seats – one for a pilot, and one for a gunner situated behind.
Anakin's thoughts dwelled on the young Queen Eletré Apailana. He had heard of her crack shooting during the battle with the Raiders and was quite impressed. He was so impressed he recommended to Padmé and Captain Deens she be made the primary gunner of her ship whenever going into battle.
Deens' reply was to proudly affirm the RSF has among the finest security training in the galaxy, up to and including training the Queen herself.
Anakin and Luke rounded another corner before entering their quarters, Anakin paused momentarily to the sight of Padmé sitting at a table, eyes closed, her right arm dangling at her side, a tablet lay loosely clutched in her fingers.
During such hellish times, one would sleep standing up. Nary a time for a cozy sleep in a soft bed. The mere fact they were on a fully equipped starship was a luxury. Compared to the life Anakin lived as a young child, being on such a starship was pure heaven, and he appreciated such a precious gift each day.
Luke gazed up at his father, who promptly made a "shh" gesture with his index finger. The young boy looked back at his mother and smiled. It was the smile of a child who could not resist the urge to be a little miscreant – a proclivity both the Skywalker children would take to on occasion.
Anticipating his son's move to pounce on his sleeping mother, Anakin placed a hand on Luke's shoulders and stepped in front of him. Squatting down to his now pouting son. He leaned forward and quietly explained to his son it was important for his mother to get whatever rest she could.
With a gentle kick of his foot on the ground, Luke acquiesced to his father – knowing his opportunity to be mischievous would come later.
The tablet in Padmé fingers broke way, but before it could hit the ground, Anakin called it to his hand and gently set it down on the nightstand beside the bed. With his strong arms he carefully picked up Padmé and carried her over to the bed and pulled the covers over her. Padmé made a soft sound and clutched onto the sheets. "Nighty night," she breathed.
For the first time in a great while, Padmé actually looked peaceful, Anakin would even call the sight breathtaking. Taking it all in, he treasured the tranquil moment he beheld.
After a beat, Anakin sat Luke down on the bed, and once more placed his index finger to his lips before pointing to boy and stepping over to the nearby table where Padmé was sitting. Luke knew his father well enough to know he meant business, but at the same time it was incredibly difficult to remain still. However, the child was fascinated with watching his father, and his actions were enough to keep his attention, for the moment at least.
The Jedi Knight pulled out a scarlet rose from a flower vase and carefully tied it to the lightsaber he made. Anakin would never skip out on a chance to be romantic for the woman that meant everything to him.
Anakin set the rose and lightsaber down on the nightstand beside Padmé, knowing it would be waiting for her when she awoke. In the meantime, Anakin sat on the bed beside his sleeping Angel, and clutched their son in his arms. Anakin gazed down at his son with a tender and joyous smile. For him it was the perfect end to an unending day.
Inside a seedy pub on the outskirts of Theed, Vinz Navarro, gangster extraordinaire was busy – busy emptying the wallet of a poor, unfortunate gambler who dared to challenge him at the sabaac tables.
"Read 'em and weep!" Navarro cackled, throwing down his sabaac hand triumphantly, taking a puff from his cigar to cement his victory over his opponent.
Navarro's would-be challenger's eyes went wide in disbelief, he was sure he had a winning hand. "B-but that's all the money I have left!" He protested.
"That shit happens, cough it up ninny," Navarro responded leaning forward menacingly, blowing cigar smoke in the man's face whilst rubbing his thumb and fingers together.
His challenger responded by coughing against the plume of toxic smoke ensnaring his lungs. He shook his head, refusing to admit defeat.
"Well, boys, looks like we have a problem," Navarro reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a short knife and quickly placed it against the throat of his opponent. "If you want to walk out of here with your gizzard intact…" Navarro suggested, slightly pushing the cold steel into the flesh of his challenger.
The man flinched and handed over his remaining credits. "See, we're all friends here boys," Navarro grinned and glanced around at his two henchmen standing on either side of the table. "A pleasure doin' business with ya," Navarro then pocketed his knife and sat back in his chair, puffing his cigar and counting his winnings.
"There's a sucker born every minute, here's your share," Navarro said splitting the credits up among his men.
A determined Ruvino stepped inside the pub and breathed in its smoke-filled air, the Jedi Padawan didn't flinch, not did he recoil from the toxic haze that engulfed him. His lungs well adapted to breathing in the vile atmosphere. For Ruvino, this wretched hive of scum and villainy was almost a home away from home. The sabaac tables started out initially as a means of escape from his everyday problems, when he realized he had a talent for the game it turned into a means to provide. Despite his mother's objections, he made his way down to the pub to earn some credits. Although it was a slightly veiled line of reasoning for getting even with Navarro.
It wasn't long before he caught the attention of one of the scantily clad waitresses. "Hey there Ruvino, what'll it be? Your usual?"
Ruvino recognized the waitress as Breann, who frequently served him when he came to the pub. Breann was known for her outgoing, if not flirtatious personality. Such traits were part of the job description if one wanted to waitress at the pub.
"No, not tonight Breann," Ruvino said, his eyes locking in on a smug looking Navarro at his table. "Tonight…" He turned and gazed at the waitress. "Is personal."
"Oh my!" Breann exclaimed, setting down her tray. "Just a heads up, Vinz has been talking about you, I think he wants another go with you."
"Perfect," Ruvino stated, marching off towards the table where the pompous gangster sat, encapsulated in cigar smoke.
It didn't take long for Ruvino to catch Navarro's attention, who promptly stretched his hands out on either side. "Hey, Ruvino, I thought after that last ass-whupping I gave you, you would have learned yer lesson. Glutton for punishment huh?"
A stone faced Ruvino sat down in the chair across from Navarro, who stretched his hand out. "By all means then, take a seat and I'll take everything from you. Say, I see that pretty sister of yours is now Queen, not bad kid. If you lose tonight, maybe I'll have to take my winnings out of her. You know, with you being so poor and all" the gangster erupted into laughter.
Navarro's incendiary comments caused Ruvino to ball his hands up into fists. He began imagining taking his lightsaber and turning Navarro into Gungan shish kabob. It took every ounce of control he had learned from Barriss Offee not to reach inside his cloak and will his thoughts into reality. No one talks about Mirala like that. Ruvino quietly thought to himself.
"Okay, okay, hey, kid, I'm kidding. This is just between you and me, alright?"
Ruvino nodded.
"Say, since I cleaned you out last time, what do you have to bet with?" Navarro asked while lighting a new cigar, the man was a chain smoker.
Ruvino reached inside his cloak and pulled out his prized and historic sabaac deck.
"Ooh, lookie here boys, these will fetch a very handsome price on the market. Alright, you just bought yourself a game," Navarro then slid some credit chips over to Ruvino. "The deal is yours," he added.
Ruvino's eyes remained transfixed on Navarro as they played their first hand. The Jedi Padawan watched his opponents every move like a Nubian hawk.
"Will ya make yer move already? You move slower than old people fuck," a frustrated Navarro commented.
Ruvino smirked. "What's the matter? You have a hot date?"
The snide remark earned the Jedi Padawan a snicker from the gangster.
"Ya see, this is why I like ya kid," Navarro stated, pointing his cigar at Ruvino while taking a sip from his drink. "But don't test me," his patience now growing thin.
Ruvino placed his card hand down on the table and waited for Navarro to do likewise.
"Well," an exhilarated Navarro began, "looks like Lady Luck isn't with ya tonight," Navarro said revealing his winning hand. "Sorry kid looks like I'm gonna have to take yer deck. Give my regards to yer sister."
Navarro began to collect his winnings when Ruvino grabbed his right hand. The gangster paused as Ruvino reached into Navarro's sleeve and pulled out a sabaac card.
"You cheated!" Ruvino flung the card into the gangster's face. The Jedi Padawan caught eye of Navarro swapping out cards while he was setting his drinking glass back onto the table. "You hear that everyone, we have a cheater in our midst!" Ruvino shouted to the bar patrons who exchanged confused looks with one another.
"Hey, hey, no need to make a scene kid!" Navarro said, lowering his voice. He then quickly nodded to his henchmen who charged at Ruvino. Navarro used it as his opening to dart away and make his escape.
One of Navarro's henchmen attempted to land a right hook against the Jedi Padawan, who quickly ducked and answered with a punch to the henchman's crotch, who keeled over holding onto his precious family jewels.
The bar patrons began to cheer and chanted "fight, fight, fight!"
The remaining henchman drew a knife and began swinging it at the Jedi Padawan. Using the Force, Ruvino was able to anticipate his opponents moves and he managed to dodge them. This elicited a few "oohs," and "ahs", from the exuberant bar patrons.
"Come on kid, give it to me!" The angry henchman snarled as he prepared for another round of attacks against the Jedi Padawan.
Ruvino suddenly noticed one of the bar patrons was extending an empty beer bottle his way. He wasted no time in grabbing it, and with a swift move, broke it across the head of the henchman. "You got it!"
With the two henchmen now dispatched, Ruvino chased after Navarro. The young man had never felt more exhilarated, nor more alive than he did in the present. Tonight, he was bringing himself a dose of much needed justice. He would even go as far as to say he enjoyed the adrenaline rush he got from the fight. He did not care if his Master would scold him for this, all that mattered right now was Ruvino righting a wrong – by any means necessary.
Ruvino made his way through the kitchen of the pub and finally out through the back, into the alley. Navarro was close, he could feel his presence, but he could not ascertain his location.
Where are you? An angry Ruvino thought to himself. When he found Navarro, he was also going to make sure he paid for that comment he made about Mirala.
The alleyway outside the pub was filled with mist from the exhaust pipes protruding out from the side of the buildings that lined the street on either side. Ruvino reached for his lightsaber, when he felt a sharp impact against his back, knocking the Jedi Padawan to the floor.
Ruvino grunted as he hit the pavement. He glanced up to see Navarro hovering above him with a blaster pistol drawn. Before he could take aim, Ruvino Force pushed him away.
Ruvino called his lightsaber to him and activated it, while using the Force to help him back to his feet.
"Well, I'm impressed, I never figured you for a Jedi. Well played kid, but I'm afraid only one of us will be walking away from here," Navarro likewise was also getting back to his feet as he made his declaration.
Navarro holstered his blaster and pulled out a vibroblade. Ruvino knew they were resistant to lightsabers. What began as a bar brawl, had mushroomed into a deathmatch. "You may not know this, but I served with a band of Mandalorians, they taught me how to kill Jedi."
Ruvino was unfazed by the gangster's taunts. He focused with the Force and called onto his albeit limited training. This was going to be his trial by fire.
The two men circled one another, mere seconds became an eternity, which was now waiting on one of the two to make the first move. Eternity continued to wait, would it be gangster or Jedi who would make the first move? The answer eternity received was Jedi.
Emerald green plasma swung through the air and clashed head on with the vibroblade. Navarro managed to parry the Padawan's repeated attacks before answering back with several of his own.
Navarro was clearly an experienced swordsman. Ruvino could see the cold hatred inside Navarro's eyes. These were the eyes of a seasoned killer. And his attacks were quick, fierce, and savage, which placed Ruvino on the retreat. It did not take the Padawan long to realize he may have bitten off more than he could chew as they say.
Ruvino's latest strike was parried and he felt his right hand being seized as Navarro brought his vibroblade to bear across Ruvino's face. The Padawan suddenly felt his upper and lower lip being sliced open by vibroblade before being kicked to the ground.
Navarro could only shake his head as he loomed over his fallen opponent. "One thing is for certain," Navarro began as he switched his vibroblade into a reverse grip and raised the weapon over his head, preparing for the killing blow. "You are no Jedi."
Ruvino braced himself for the inevitable, his thoughts focused in on Mirala, Mora, and his mother.
Before Navarro could bring his vibroblade down, he felt a burning sensation in his chest. Looking down he saw a blade of crimson plasma sticking out from it. "Well played… Kid," he managed to say as the life was being snuffed out from him. The crimson blade retracted itself and the now lifeless Navarro fell to the ground.
Ruvino gazed up at the sight of his Master Barriss Offee. She quickly moved to the side of her Padawan and pressed a hand to his damaged face – healing him, although his wound now left behind a scar that ran from his upper to his lower lip.
"M-M-Master, what are you doing here?" A weak Ruvino managed to say while being held in Barriss' arms.
"I sensed you were in danger, so I followed you. What ever possessed you to go to this bar and stir up some trouble?!" A rather displeased Barriss asked.
Ruvino blinked and thought about her question. "I… Came here to win at sabaac. It's my main source of income. And…"
"Yes?"
"And I came here to administer some justice."
"Justice!?" A flabbergasted Barriss asked.
"Yes, Master. You see Vinz Navarro is a gangster who notoriously cheats at sabaac. He cheated me last time and I couldn't let that stand."
Barriss reflected on the words of her Padawan for a few moments. He had a point on the one hand, but on the other revenge was not the Jedi way. "I understand," she sighed. "But you shouldn't go out looking for trouble Ruvino. You're supposed to be keeping a low profile. If I wasn't here, you would have died!"
Ruvino swallowed hard.
Barriss offered her hand and helped her Padawan back to his feet. While gazing upon her apprentice, she could feel something more, something he was hiding from her.
"Is there something more you want to tell me?"
Ruvino thought long and hard about her question. What was he going to tell her? That he enjoyed the thrill of getting revenge? That he was now flirting with the Dark Side?
"There's," Ruvino spoke, "a difference between revenge and justice, isn't there Master?"
Barriss nodded. "Yes, and tonight you went out seeking the former. Ruvino, you mustn't allow your passions to govern your actions, they will be your undoing. Believe me, it will lead you down a dark path."
Defeated, Ruvino slumped his shoulders slightly and sighed. He knew she had a point, even if he didn't want to hear a lecture. "Yes, Master," was all he managed to say, calling his lightsaber back to him before pocketing it in his cloak.
Just then a squad of Imperial Stormtroopers came running down the alley, they paused at the sight of their superior.
"Lady Nadara," one Stormtrooper asked from under his helmet. "We had no idea you were in the area."
"I was following up on a lead that a dangerous gangster was stirring up some trouble in the area, and I came across him mugging this young man here," Barriss lied without compunction. "Clean that up," she added while pointing at Navarro's corpse.
"Yes, milady, right away!" The Stormtrooper said in acknowledgement.
Barriss watched in almost appreciation as the squad carried away the body of the late Vinz Navarro. "You have to admire their loyalty sometimes," she commented, crossing her arms.
Ruvino however remained silent. Barriss turned to her Padawan, her expression softening.
"I understand why you did what you did, but it doesn't change you made a poor judgment."
All Ruvino could think about now was how Navarro had told him he was no Jedi. The memories of how he failed to protect Mirala came rushing back up to the surface.
"Master I-" he began, but paused, trying to find the words to say. "I apologize for my lack of discretion, but I just have so much to prove… To myself, and to you."
Barriss nodded. "I know Ruvino, but be patient, your time will come. Now… You'll need to explain all this to both your mother and Mora."
"Not to mention," Barriss added, "you'll need to explain to your mother and Mora how you got that new scar on your face."
Ruvino sighed and placed his face in the palm of his hand and shook his head.
"Come, I will walk you home," Barriss said, escorting her Padawan home.
On their way back Barriss explained to her Padawan how actions have consequences, and that she was unable to fully heal his skin. Now he would forever bear a memento from this night.
Back at the Andrierrie residence, the discussion of the night's events did not go well. Athala was livid her son had deliberately disobeyed her and risked his life. At one-point Athala blamed Barriss for the situation, arguing Ruvino's Jedi training was making him more defiant. However, Ruvino defended his Master and insisted he would have done the same tonight, with, or without Jedi training. He then made the case he was an adult who could now make his own decisions. Athala insisted no matter how old he got, she was still his mother and while he lived under her roof, she made the rules. While Ruvino apologized, he remained defiant, insisting he was doing all of this for them. After everything was said and done, Athala was so distraught she retired to her bedroom.
Ruvino and Barriss stood outside his house as he prepared to see her off.
"Don't worry about Mom, she'll be all right," an exasperated Ruvino said.
A concerned Barriss turned to her Padawan. "She loves you, and doesn't want to lose you," Barriss then reflected for a moment. "Maybe I have been pushing you too quickly, maybe we need to slow down-"
Ruvino shook his head before his Master could finish that statement. "No, Master, I am ready, and we don't have time to waste!"
"Then act like it! Think about how your decisions will not only affect you, but those around you," Barriss scolded.
All Ruvino could do was turn his gaze down slightly and nod.
"Remember, as powerful of an ally as the Force is, it doesn't make you invincible. Many a Jedi have fallen because they felt invincible and too sure of themselves," Barriss said.
"Look at the Jedi Purge," Ruvino added.
Her Padawan's statement caused a painful shudder to shoot up Bariss' spine. It was a thought she'd rather not dwell upon, if only she had that luxury. She thought about the Jedi Purge every day. Try as she might, whenever she'd sleep, she'd conjure up the tormented faces of the Jedi she hunted down and murdered. The weight of her sins seemed to bear down upon her chest harder as the days passed.
Barriss then parted ways with Ruvino and began walking back to the palace, her thoughts reflecting on the past day's events. From the attempted assignation of Queen Servana, to having to rescue her Padawan. She just wanted the day to be over. She was so caught up in her thoughts she almost failed to detect her commlink ringing.
"Lady Nadara," she responded, commlink in hand.
"Ah, Lady Nadara," Colonel Braxton's voice boomed from the commlink. "I've just been informed the Emperor will be paying a visit to Naboo as a courtesy."
Those were the last words Barriss wanted to hear to end her day.