GOLDENHEART STORIES PRESENTS

A MICHAEL J. PINEDA PRODUCTION

THE FROZEN FORCE HOLIDAY SPECIAL

Chapter: 47 (It's a Wonderful Life Day Part 1)

"A simple act of kindness can turn ripples into waves."

A happy, merry, holly, jolly Life Day to all! Across the galaxy, countless families are coming together in celebration of the holiday season. While Life Day originates from the Wookiee homeworld of Kashyyyk, many planets have adopted its traditional values of unity and joy. As holiday cheer reaches the Republic capital of Coruscant, its inhabitants prepare for a day long remembered...


While the city of Coruscant was already bustling on a very brisk morning, there were those in the Jedi Temple still slumbering away. The shades remained tightly sealed in a knight's dormitory. The warm air was still and calming, yet a single device flickered in the darkness. Its flashing light was enough to make the Jedi groan and roll over from his bed. But his torment had only begun as a cheerful, HoloNet voice started making announcements.

"Good morning, Coruscant!" she cheered. "And a very Happy Life Day to all. What better way to start this most festive day off than with some beloved hits?"

"How about we don't?" the Jedi grumbled from beneath his blankets.

His gripe went unheard and tunes spewed from the broadcaster. "Tip-yip roasting on an open fire-" He threw up a hand and used the Force to switch the channel. "It's beginning to look a lot like Life Day. Everywhere you-" Frustrated, the Jedi flicked his wrist and swapped to a third channel. "ALL I WANT FOR LIFE DAY IS YOUUU-" Disregarding the Force entirely, Jedi Knight Hans Westgard flung a whole boot at the broadcaster. He grouchily watched it smash and crash against his dorm room floor.

"Life Day," he scoffed. "Humbug." Hans yawned heavily, rubbed his aching head, and checked his communication devices for notifications. His heart sank when he noticed a message on his holocom. Biting his lip, the Jedi answered and braced himself. His eyes widened when a pale-skinned Twi'lek flickered into view.

She smirked towards where the recording's recipient would be and said, "Same time tonight, honey?"

"Kriff," Hans cursed under his breath. "I only gave you my holonumber so you could send me information."

"You know where to find me," the Twi'lek said with a wink. A knock at Hans' door had him scrambling to shut the message off.

"I'll be right there!" he hollered and rushed to look presentable. Hans tumbled out of bed and hurriedly straightened his robes. The knocks returned to his door with twice the ferocity. "By the Force!" Hans barked. "Would you give me a damn minute?"

"I've given you five too many," a deep voice bellowed and made Hans freeze.

"Master?" the Jedi uttered in realization.

His mentor knocked again to further fluster him. Hans quickly tied his tabards only to realize he was missing a boot. "Karabast," he growled and scoured the floor for where he'd thrown it. He checked behind the broken broadcaster while simultaneously opening the shades. Hans recovered his boot and swiftly dashed for the door. He opened it just as his master's firm fist was about to knock again. The Jedi Master quelled upon seeing his frazzled, former apprentice. His cleft chin dropped with his relaxed grin. His bold, robust frame took up most of the entryway when he stood before Hans. Incoming sunlight made the master's golden tabards glisten against his crimson robes. His piercing, bright blue gaze remained fixated on the disheveled knight.

"It took you long enough," the master jested and let his dark brows narrow.

"Master Gaston," Hans greeted. "What do you want?"

"Hans, you insult me." Gaston countered. He gestured to his broad chest as if he'd been stabbed in it. "Why, can't a master just come and wish his old student a Happy Life Day?"

"He could," Hans considered. "If he was a Wookiee and this holiday hadn't become ultra-commercialized by the Core Worlds."

"Oh please," Gaston scoffed and stormed in. "Those walking carpets should be happy, Hans. People are spreading their culture across the galaxy every year."

"By appropriating it," Hans replied and Gaston glowered. "I'm just saying! Might as well call it out for what it is!"

"You want to play that game?" Gaston boasted. "Fine by me, boy. We're a bunch of peacekeepers serving as generals in a war. Oh, and our ability to lift objects justifies taking children. So child soldiers are acceptable, right?"

"Enough," Hans groaned. "If you're here to celebrate Life Day, where's your gift? Isn't the whole 'new meaning' out here to give people gifts?"

"I already gave you the greatest gift of all, young man." Gaston assured. "I was your master!" His chuckle was as irksome as it was ear-splitting. "It doesn't get better than that!"

Hans rolled his eyes. "So aside from formalities, what is it you really want?"

Realizing Hans saw right through him, Gaston sighed and closed in. "You see, not everyone can be as lucky as you were to be my apprentice. But no one does charity like Gaston."

Hans raised a brow as Gaston wrapped a firm arm around him. "Where's this going?" he asked.

"More like where are you going!" the master proclaimed. "I have a special gift for the homeless. All you have to do is deliver it to the Vica Foundation Shelter."

"Why don't you do it?" Hans inquired.

"Because I'm a busy man."

"Well I'm a busy man too!" Hans retorted. "I've got a district to-"

"Hans," Gaston interrupted. He pat his head as one would a tooka and watched his anger rise. "Hans Hans Hans...How do I say this? To hell with whatever you have to do."

"Excuse me?" Hans snapped.

"You can be excused," Gaston assured. "I might not be your master anymore, but I can still look out for you. Believe me when I say that you've literally accomplished nothing in CoCo Town."

"That's bantha crap," Hans contested.

"No. You being made a Sentinel to that district is bantha crap. So do Coruscant and I a favor. Deliver my gift and actually be worth something."

Hans scowled at Gaston and sighed, "Fine."

"I knew you'd accept!" Gaston rejoiced as Hans stormed off. "The task is so easy, not even you could screw it up. Happy Life Day, Hans!"

"Mhm," Hans barely acknowledged. I hate this kriffing holiday, he thought while departing.

Once Hans left, Gaston smirked and activated his comlink. "The twerp's actually doing it, Donma," he bragged.

"Not bad, my dear." Master Gothel admitted in a sultry tone. "But now that your schedule's been freed, how about you hurry up? I'm very...lonely."

Her call ended and Gaston bit his lip. "Happy Life Day to me," he whispered and set off to meet her.


Coruscant's Financial District was booming with holiday business. Bordering the city's Senate District, it was common to see political personnel dropping in for some shopping of their own. A news speeder landed just outside of the Galactic City Super Mall. The Coruscant Rose logo split across its doors as reporter Belle O'Har emerged.

"Come on, Chip!" she beckoned. "We're going live any moment now." Belle brushed the brown tresses from her face and straightened her posture. Her short and stout, C1-P camera droid hovered in front of her face. While his patterned design was chipped, he still prepared to record. Belle raised her microphone and greeted thousands of viewers with a smile. "Happy Life Day, Coruscant!" Belle announced. "I'm here at Galactic City Super Mall where citizens are engaging in one of their favorite traditions: Last minute shopping! But perhaps this is just the type of hustle and bustle that Coruscant needs right now. After our city was rocked by attacks just one month ago, the threat of the 'Coruscant Killers' is still fresh for some. But now that it's Life Day, Coruscant's populace has a chance to come together and heal. At its core...Life Day is about family, joy, and harmony. The Wookiee tradition has spread far from the forests of Kashyyyk...to the discounted aisles of Coruscant malls." Chip zoomed in on a giddy customer departing with a brand new datascreen. "Yes folks," Belle continued. "It appears everyone is getting into the holiday spirit. Even senators by the looks of it!"

A Corellian-crafted, luxury speeder landed on camera. Its polished doors parted and revealed the seafoam coat of Senator Dia Veritaz. Elsa and Taline exited at her sides as they made for the mall. "Now's our chance, Chip." Belle whispered and scurried over. "Senator Veritaz!" she called and Dia instantly rolled her eyes. "Master Jedi! Belle O'har with the Coruscant Rose."

"We know who you are," Dia muttered and ushered the others to keep walking.

"What are your plans for Life Day?" Belle asked.

"Not answering questions," Dia replied.

"But you just did," Elsa jested and glanced at Belle. "We-"

"Don't," Dia intoned.

"She's just asking about our holiday," Elsa insisted.

"That's how it starts," the senator assured. "They just need an opening, so trust me and ignore her."

"Master Jedi," Belle called. "How does your Order celebrate Life Day?"

Elsa took two steps onward, bit her lip, and came to a halt. Whether Dia was right or wrong, she couldn't bring herself to ignore Belle. The horrid feeling ate at her from within until she gave in to answering. Dia gasped as Elsa spun to acknowledge Belle. "Given the amount of diversity within our ranks, the Jedi Order celebrates Life Day in many unique ways. We even have some Wookiees who go the truly traditional route. But I think at its core, Life Day brings us all together through acts of kindness. And a chocolate cookie or two in between is a bonus." Elsa winked and Belle chuckled at her remark.

"Well it's so nice to see our neighborhood Jedi getting into the spirit of the season," Belle admired. Her smile faltered as her brows furrowed inquisitively. "Although I must ask-"

"Here we go," Dia murmured and Elsa gulped.

"Do any of these acts of kindness include further investigation into the 'Coruscant Killers'?" Belle asked. Before Elsa could even fomulate a response, Belle added an additional question. "Are the Jedi working to ensure that the Republic's citizens have a safe holiday?"

"Well," Elsa began. "We-...The Jedi are always doing their best."

Belle tilted her head with intrigue while Chip zoomed in. "So when the killers escaped last month and were never captured...Were the Jedi doing their best as well? I'm only asking for the record," Belle genuinely inquired.

Understanding the hole she'd dug herself into, Elsa tried to backtrack. "I believe each Jedi is unique. And so too are those situations."

"So what you're saying is...more capable Jedi are needed?" Belle queried.

"Um," Elsa thought until Dia placed a hand on her shoulder. The senator's grip tightened and she pulled Elsa back.

"Alright then!" Dia declared. "That's enough questions! The only thing this city needs more of is capable reporters. Buh-bye! Ta-ta!"

"But wait!" Belle called until Dia, Elsa, and Taline fled into the mall. The reporter sulked and glared into Chip's lens. "People of Coruscant," she snarked. "I give you Senator Veritaz of the Ethics Committee."

Dia's group entered the glistening palace of a shopping center. "Thanks for the save back there," Elsa admitted.

"I warned you," Dia grumbled. "Talking to those reporters is just opening up a can of trouble. Especially anyone from that phony Coruscant Rose. She really is a funny girl, that Belle. Not a reporter I could ever take seriously."

"Did you have to be so harsh with her?" Elsa asked.

Dia sighed. "I'll put it this way...When a pest bites your hand or heel, sometimes you can't just swat them away. You really have to shake or smack them off. It's the only way for them to get the hint. But enough about her! I'm here for you!"

Elsa's eyes widened while Taline looked equally surprised. "Me?" the Padawan asked.

Dia gestured to the monumental testament of commercialization around them. "Happy Life Day, Elsa!"

Unsure how to react, Elsa continued to observe the mall around them. "Um...Happy Life Day to you too, Senator Veritaz-"

"Ah ah ah. Call me Dia. You've been my assistant for over a month and we can dispense with such formalities. Now, how did you celebrate Life Day back in your temple?"

"Well," Elsa recalled. "We'd volunteer to help others in need, whether it was on Coruscant or offworld. And bake-"

"Yes yes cookies," Dia muttered. "But you never received any gifts?" Elsa shook her head and Dia smirked. "Oh! Well then this Life Day with me shall be the best one in your life!" She wrapped an arm around Elsa and guided her towards the finest store she could find. "Aha!" Dia cheered while Elsa observed the sign.

GoldHeart Regalities

"This is it!" Dia rejoiced. "Come on!" She led the way while Taline reluctantly trailed behind. "Mipps, darling!" she called to the outlet's owner.

A yellow-skinned Rodian was measuring fabric when he heard her. His antennae bent towards the senator and his bulbous, blue eyes lit up. "Dia, baby!" he hollered back. "Happy Life Day!" Elsa watched the two embrace and exchange a record-breaking amount of cheek kisses. "Last minute shopping, hm?" Mipps teased. "And I see you brought some new friends! Ooo and a Jedi of all people." Mipps could barely contain his giddy excitement. "Ugh!" he exerted. "I love it all! So what can I get you?"

"Let's find out," Dia replied and looked to the Padawan. "Alright, Elsa. Pick anything in Mr. Mipps' store and I'll buy it for you. Anything."

Elsa nervously hugged herself and examined the shop's options. Regalities seemed to be an understatement. Every outfit was fit to surpass an entire lineage of royalty. Intricate patterns and luxurious fabrics meshed together for the ultimate statement of status. Wide display cases glistened with profuse amounts of jewelry. But despite how fantastic it all appeared, nothing spoke to Elsa. The lifestyle just wasn't...her. "I'm sorry," the Padawan said. "Your store is very nice. I just can't accept any of this as a gift."

"Oh Elsa," Dia said. "You can't because you don't know how. As a Jedi, you've always been taught to give yourself to a greater good. Well maybe sometimes that greater good is you! You need to go for what you want and treat yourself." Dia slid behind Elsa and rubbed her shoulders. "You've dedicated so much to this galaxy and its people. You've followed all the rules with that big, pure heart of yours. What's so wrong about letting someone else give something to you?"

Elsa took a deep breath. "I suppose...one gift wouldn't be so wrong," she said.

"That's the Life Day spirit," Dia intoned. "Now go try something on."

Elsa ventured into the store's clothing aisle while Dia observed an overhead banner.

A NIGHT OF DREAMS: THE MISS CORUSCANT BEAUTY PAGEANT

"Are you ready for that?" Dia asked.

"I work at my best under pressure," Mipps admitted. "I've been designing countless pageant outfits for months now."

"Better hurry," Dia teased. "It'll be here before you know it."

"Yes well-" Mipps' snout drooped and eyes widened even further. "By the stars," he uttered.

Dia and Taline turned as Elsa emerged from a dressing room. She was bundled in a navy blue coat with shining furs. Detailed patterns were stitched across its hem and thick cuffs. She approached the counter and said, "I'd like this, if it's alright."

"Elsa," Dia replied. "You. Look. Beautiful."

"That coat is positively spectacular on you!" Mipps blurted. "You're shining like a supernova, young lady!"

"That's Senator Dellian to you," Dia joked.

Elsa blushed and shyly tucked her hands into the coat's pockets. "Th-thank you, Mr. Mipps. And thank you, Senat-...Dia."

"You're very welcome, sweetheart." Dia assured. "You deserve it." Mipps rang up the coat's expensive price in his digital register. As the Corellian noble flaunted her riches, she made a sudden observation. "Say, Mipps." Dia whispered. "What happened to Sahira? Didn't she used to work this register?"

Mipps glowered. "With everything going on, I thought it was best for her to take a leave of absence."

Dia raised a brow. "Because she's an Umbaran?"

"It's not like that," Mipps insisted. "I was worried that she'd be harassed by customers."

"I thought better of you, dear." Dia huffed. "If such were true, you'd be there to defend her. You just didn't want an Umbaran tarnishing your store's reputation."

Mipps swallowed hard and chuckled nervously. "Dia I-"

"Good day," she said and shut him down. "Elsa. Taline...we're leaving."

"Are you alright?" Elsa worried.

"Fine," Dia snapped. "Just reminded yet again that this city and its injustices never sleep. An Umbaran is out of work to preserve that uptight Rodian's image."

"Maybe we can find her a job," Elsa suggested. While Dia's eyes lit up, Taline bit back a gasp. The Mirialan's distress was difficult to conceal and Elsa feared she'd made a mistake. The Padawan deduced that her comment made Taline fear replacement.

Dia placed a reassuring hand on Taline's shoulder and spoke up. "That sounds like a marvelous idea, Elsa!" the senator said.

Belle was getting footage of other shoppers when she noticed the trio departing from the mall. She was astonished to see a Jedi in such a fine and expensive coat. "Chip," she whispered. "See if you can get some snaps for me." The C1-P beeped and hovered after them.

As Elsa and Dia walked ahead, the Padawan couldn't help but ask a question. "What about Taline?" Dia's brows raised as she continued. "Doesn't she get a present too?"

Dia glanced back at her Mirialan handmaiden. She smiled softly to Elsa and said, "Of course she does. Just keep your voice down, because it's a surprise for later."

Elsa frowned. "I feel terrible for not getting either of you anything," she said.

"Oh nonsense," Dia remarked. "A Jedi's company is a gift in itself." Elsa froze and furrowed her brows. Dia paused and worriedly leaned over in response. "Elsa? Did I say something wrong?"

"No," Elsa whispered between winces. "I sense something. Someone." Elsa paced along the sidewalk and stretched out with her feelings. Amidst all of her Force senses, she detected a small and shivering lifeform. Elsa peeked into an alley and spotted a quivering blue mass. Stocky limbs were bunched together beneath a pair of floppy ears. "By the Force," Elsa gasped. The Ortolan child felt her boot shuffle the garbage around him. He looked up with his black, beady eyes and examined Elsa's face. "It's just a child," the Padawan lamented. His trunk sniffed away at her utility belt while Dia observed the situation. Chip hovered overhead while Elsa offered the Ortolan an energy pellet. "He must be starving," Elsa said. "Are you all alone out here?" The Ortolan didn't answer and kept munching away at his snack. Once he was finished, he began frantically signing with his little, grimy hands.

"I think he's deaf," Dia deduced. "Don't Jedi know sign language?"

"I don't," Elsa confessed. "But I know we can't just leave him out in the cold. On Life Day of all days!"

Dia's lips twitched. "Yes, well...I'm sure we can take him to a police station or orphanage or something. I can call for-"

"We can't leave him out here any longer," Elsa contested and felt his soft forehead. "He could run a fever."

"Elsa," Dia insisted from behind gritted teeth. Her eyes swayed towards Belle's camera before returning to the situation. "We aren't doctors."

"But I am a Jedi and he needs our help."

"We don't even know if he's actually homeless," Dia said and Elsa's heart sank. She looked up at the senator with sheer disbelief in her eyes. "I mean it," Dia doubled down. "You know how many of these tricksters play this game on Life Day?"

"You can't be serious," Elsa replied. "I thought you were against injustice in this city. Dia, he's just a kid."

As their debate carried on, Dia noticed observing bystanders and Belle's vigilant camera droid. She took a deep breath and addressed Elsa calmly. "Just leave him be and I'll place a call, okay? We can't just be picking anyone off the street."

"Just Jedi," Elsa fired back. "Anyone who would make a valuable assistant to you, right?"

Dia huffed. "Elsa, that's not what I meant."

"It sure seems that way," Elsa retorted. "That you're not free from 'selectively caring' either." Elsa thought about Yelena's similar behavior and sighed. "You speak of a hypocrisy you despise so much, yet here you are doing it."

"You'd better watch your tone," Dia scolded. "Remember who bought you that fancy coat you're wearing."

Elsa scowled. "Oh I do," she said while unbuttoning it. "And I also remember what Life Day is really about." Dia's jaw dropped as Elsa wrapped her coat around the Ortolan. Its expensive, illustrious fabrics were quickly stained with dirt and grime. The Ortolan cooed and snuggled in the fine furs like a blanket.

"Unbelievable," Dia grumbled. "Taline, come."

Elsa rose and rushed after them. "Dia, wait-"

"Senator Veritaz is fine," Dia corrected. She glared at the C1-P droid floating in front of her. "Get that camera out of my face!" she snapped.

Taline opened the door to Dia's speeder while Elsa caught up. "Senator," the Padawan said. "I was just trying to do the right thing. I'm sorry for my words to-"

"No you're not," Dia asserted and took a seat. "You're glad you did what you did. But careful, Elsa. Even the moral high ground has its limits. You can only decree so much before you lose your voice. The next time you call me a hypocrite, Jedi...you'd better look in the mirror first." Dia slammed her speeder door shut. Elsa was left staring at her reflection in its window while Dia jeered from within. "Happy Life Day!" The vehicle sped off and left Elsa coughing in its exhaust.

Nice going, Elsa. She scolded only to end up correcting herself. No, she thought. I did the right thing. Senator Veritaz has some nerve ousting me like that.

Elsa regained her composure and returned to the decrepit alley. She found comfort in seeing how cozy the Ortolan was in her coat. The deaf child had observed Elsa's argument with Veritaz and appeared nervous on approach. "It's okay," Elsa reassured and gestured with an open hand. "It's just me." Elsa sat beside the Ortolan and he rested against her arm. She scratched his head and searched the alley for any other Ortolans. "Where's your family?" she asked aloud and the child only snuggled closer. "Looks like we both got left behind," Elsa admitted. "But it doesn't mean we have to spend this Life Day alone. We have each other!" The Ortolan curiously watched Elsa rise and offer a hand. "Come on. Let's find some place warm...and much less smelly." Elsa winked and the child cautiously extended his hand. His stubby fingers clenched her palm as she led the way. They made it a whole step before his trunk was already sniffing her belt for more food.


Deep within the the ice chasms of Ilum, Jedi Master Mattias and his team were hard at work. He traversed the Hammerhead's rebooted control bridge and checked for loose wiring. "How are we looking, Lieutenant Sparx?" he asked.

The clone finished tightening a panel into place and tossed a welder over to Blazer. "All set on our end, sir!" Sparx reported. "It looks like today might be the day."

Rapunzel finished plugging in an extra power cell and double-checked her handiwork. "All supplies is tucked away in the cargo hold. We're just waiting on Anna and Speedy with the hyperspikes."

Mattias nodded to her and peeked from their opened hatch. He smiled at the sight of Anna and Speedy dashing down the icy incline. "We're coming!" Anna hollered. Speedy's cybernetics cranked as he and Anna hauled several, needle-like devices over.

"Fantastic work," Mattias admired while they entered the ship. "That should be everything. Plug those into the hyperdrive and let's see the fruit of our labors!"

Anna and Speedy hastily inserted the hyperspikes before joining the others. Everyone found a seat in the Hammerhead's expansive bridge. Transferred power cells and components from the Jedi corvette were administered throughout the ancient vessel. The group fluctuated between excitement and sheer anxiety as Sparx announced, "Ready for launch!"

"Let 'er rip!" Anna dared to yell.

Sparx grit his teeth and flipped the primary ignition. Everyone shuddered as a series of cacophonous, yet unsettling chimes rang out across the dashboards. While Anna and Blazer cheered, Mattias reserved any applause until they were airborne. He didn't even want to think about repairs if their little 'experiment' had failed.

"Rapunzel," Sparx called. "Activate repulsorlifts. Speedy, prime the thrusters." Each activation prompted the Hammerhead to respond with various hums and alarms. With its engines readied, Sparx gripped the controls and tilted upward. The group braced and smiled as their ship actually lifted off of the ground.

"By the Force," Rapunzel gasped and examined the engine readouts. "It's working! It's working!"

The ice walls around their new ship melted and crumbled. As Sparx piloted them out, their viewport was soon bathed in Ilum's bright sunlight. "My friends-" Sparx declared. "We have liftoff!" Everyone rose from their seats and cheered. Though it wasn't in perfect condition, they'd successfully resurrected the Old Republic starship.

"We did it!" Anna rejoiced and hugged her master. "Happy Life Day, Mattias."

"Happy Life Day indeed," he agreed and squeezed her tight. As they left the snowy plains of Ilum, their former corvette stayed behind. Its hollow remains would forever serve as a symbol of what was and what could be.

"Holy kriff!" Anna blurted as their Hammerhead left the atmosphere. "We're actually in space with this thing! Where to now?"

"Back to Coruscant, right?" Blazer asked. "Business as usual?"

"My blood's rushing for a good fight," Anna admitted. "But my stomach's grumbling for real food too. Energy pellets for a month would drive anyone insane!"

"Black Spire Outpost is rumored to have the best eats in the galaxy," Rapunzel said. "Ronto wraps are a delicacy there."

"Our captain on Felucia had mentioned Black Spire from time to time," Blazer replied. "That's on Batuu, isn't it? We're already in the Unknown Regions. We can't be that far from the Outer Rim."

"Now hold on," Mattias said. "We-"

"I'm down," Anna added. "Let's go to Batuu!"

"Hell yeah!" Blazer barked. "For the ronto wraps!"

Blazer and Anna clenched their fists and chanted simultaneously, "Ron-to wraps! Ron-to wraps! Ron-to wraps!"

"I'll roast you both into ronto wraps if you don't simmer down!" Mattias chuckled. "Anna has one more test to pass."

The bridge went silent and Anna rose from her seat. "Well bring it on," she replied. "After everything else, what's one more?"

Mattias smirked and looked to Sparx. "Lieutenant. Chart a course for the Kamino system. It's time to see what our hyperdrive can do."


Master Yelena sat in the temple cafeteria by herself. She poured a glob of fresh muja sauce over her plate of space waffles and sighed. She sensed a presence slipping into the seat across from her. Her joy was short-lived when she realized it wasn't her apprentice.

"A Happy Life Day to you, Master Yelena." Master Depa Billaba said. "Mind if we join you?" Yelena glanced over and noticed her young apprentice still gathering food.

"It's fine," Yelena mumbled.

"Forgive me-" Billaba continued. "I know there are other tables, but no one should be alone on Life Day. Even a Jedi master such as yourself."

"I appreciate that," Yelena sighed.

"How is your Padawan liking her role as a senatorial assistant?" Billaba asked.

"She seems to be alright," Yelena confessed.

Billaba raised a dark brow. "But are you?"

Yelena pursed her lips and shook her head. "I don't really know anymore. It's like she's already a knight but nowhere near ready at the same time. I tell myself I've done all that I can, yet it doesn't feel like enough."

"They'll never be fully prepared for the next stage," Billaba said. "You weren't...I wasn't. No one on the council was. You only want the best for your student."

Yelena prodded her waffles with a fork. "I think I knew what's best, and that's my problem. Elsa doesn't trust me."

Billaba tilted her head with intrigue and asked, "Do you trust her?" Yelena's ensuing silence was enough of an answer. Billaba smiled softly and said, "Yelena...we are masters, but we remain students within. We haven't learned everything yet. Young Caleb over there is still teaching me how to better myself. But this only works if we trust each other." Billaba's grin widened. "Here he comes now. Did you grab enough waffles, Caleb?" she teased.

The young Padawan placed a colossal stack on the table and scooted his chair over. "Master Yoda says space waffles can improve cognitive focus," Caleb said.

Billaba humored her student's claim with a snicker. "Does he now?" she inquired.

Yelena noticed Caleb repeatedly eyeing her muja sauce and sighed. "You can take it," she jokingly grumbled. As Caleb saw to his waffles, Yelena couldn't help but remember when Elsa was that young. How simple everything had seemed back then. The galaxy had its problems, but war had never escalated like this. She missed the days before Elsa became so questioning and she despised even having that thought. Yelena loathed what wishing for a submissive Padawan said about her and struggled to move forward. In those moments, it seemed like the will of the Force was calling her elsewhere.

"Well well," Billaba said and glanced over Yelena's shoulder. "Look who's making headlines again." Yelena gulped and viewed the wall-mounted datascreen.

"This is Belle O'Har coming to you live with the latest in Coruscant news. Kindness is far from diminished in our city and it took a Jedi to remind us. While shoppers went about their lives at the Galactic City Super Mall, no one paid any mind to this homeless child." Footage zoomed in on a shivering Ortolan in an alleyway. That was until a young Jedi came to this child's aid." Yelena watched as Elsa knelt beside the Ortolan and removed an extravagant coat. "While we were perplexed to see her possessing such fine garments, she was willing to bestow them upon the child for warmth. Senator Dia Veritaz of the Ethics Committee...did not seem pleased." Yelena's heart sank when she witnessed Dia abandoning Elsa at the clip cut to Belle addressing her viewers. "Is this a Life Day blessing or publicity stunt for the cameras? I attempted to interview the Jedi for details." Belle was seen walking alongside Elsa while the child's trunk slinked into frame.

Before the reporter could ask any questions, Elsa put her companion's needs first. "Where is the nearest homeless shelter?" the Padawan inquired.

Belle paused. "That would be the Vica Foundation Shelter," she answered. "It's about two blocks north of here."

"Thank you," Elsa said.

"Master Jedi," Belle inquired. "Just some questions-"

"Respectfully," Elsa responded. "The only question any of us should be asking is why there are homeless children in the Republic's capital." With her thought provoking comment in place, Elsa continued on her way.

"I admire her heart," Billaba said.

Yelena huffed and slid out of her seat. "I've got to get going," she said. "Enjoy your breakfast, young man."

Caleb waved to her while Billaba asked, "Where are you off to?"

"To find Elsa," Yelena said. "No one should be alone on Life Day." Before departing, she glanced over her shoulder and added, "Cherish every moment you have with him. He'll be Elsa's age before you know it and ready to take on the galaxy." Billaba smiled softly and playfully nudged Caleb. She inquisitvely watched Yelena depart for her journey of reconciliation.


A frigid breeze blew against Elsa and the Ortolan. The child shivered and instantly hugged her leg for comfort. "Don't worry," she said. "We'll get you all warmed up soon. I wish I knew your name, little one." She gently pat his head and observed a nearby structure. Her eyes lit up like its welcoming sign. "We've made it!" Elsa cheered and pulled the child inside.

The duo passed through a set of gleaming doors and found volunteers hard at work. Coruscant's impoverished could rest safely in the Vica Foundation's shelter, where they were provided with warm blankets and fresh meals. "May an act of kindness inspire another!" a woman called from the front of a queue. Elsa observed an older Pantoran as she poured hot stew for the homeless. "You're the Jedi from the datascreens!"

That's not a bad thing for once, Elsa thought. "That's me," she answered. "I have a child here in desperate need of food and a place to stay."

The Pantoran's frown was sympathetic and sincere. She had another volunteer take over for serving while she approached Elsa. "Of course, Master Jedi. Our shelter is open to all in need."

"Thank you," Elsa said. "I know it's a formality, but I'm no master. I'm only a Padawan learner. Elsa Dellian."

The woman smiled and offered a hand. "Datya Vica. It's a pleasure, Elsa."

"Vica?" Elsa reconsidered. Between the building name and Datya's similar facial markings, there had to be more to Elsa's rising theory. "Pardon me, but are you by any chance related to-"

"Tori?" Datya chuckled. "She's my pride and joy."

"Seriously, Mom?" Tori groaned from the second level. "Do you have to embarrass me in front of my friend?"

Elsa broke out into a stuttering fit. Her eyes darted between Tori and Datya as she tried to process the situation. "W-wait," Elsa said. "So...you're Tori's mother?"

"The one and only," Datya replied.

Elsa looked up at Tori, who was shifting beds with the Force. "And you know?" Elsa queried.

"That is correct," Tori huffed while her master came into view. "How's this look, Master Sumar?"

Meliz examined the new arrangements and gave her a thumbs up. She then peered down at Elsa and smiled. "Padawan Dellian!" she hollered. "Happy Life Day! I've heard a thing or two about your ventures. Want to help us spruce up the shelter?"

Elsa tried to suspend her disbelief while Datya pat her shoulder. "Don't worry about your little friend," the Pantoran said. "I'll make sure he's all settled in with the other children." Datya guided the Ortolan away while Elsa waved goodbye. She then scurried upstairs to meet up with Tori and Meliz.

"Right then!" Meliz declared. "I'll rearrange the couches if you two want to get the lights up."

"Come on, Elsa." Tori beckoned and grabbed a bushel of multicolored lights. "Everyone deserves a festive Life Day." Elsa didn't realize how long she was staring at Tori until she was called out. "Can I help you?" the Pantoran asked.

"I'm sorry," Elsa confessed. "It's just...You seem...different."

Tori raised her brows while uncoiling the lights. "Is different bad?"

"No!" Elsa blurted and chose a different approach. "You look happier and...I'm happy for you. I was worried about you, Anna, and the others."

"Well, a little closure went a long way." Tori admitted and handed Elsa a string of lights. "It was nice to truly meet my parents after all of this time."

"Meet is one thing," Elsa considered. "But you're still spending time with them. Aren't you worried about the consequences of attachment?"

Tori glared at her. "If there's something wrong with getting to know your family, then the Jedi need to reevaluate some things. I mean, you have a sister in the Order! Besides, all I'm doing now is helping others while spending time with them."

"Are you trying to convince yourself about that last part?" Elsa inquired.

Tori dropped her lights and muttered, "Elsa...do you always ask so many questions?"

Elsa sighed. "Forgive me. Maybe I'm just really curious about this closure you speak of. I wasn't in the initial Scarif attack, but that doesn't mean I wasn't affected." Elsa handed Tori's lights back to her. "You know, Anna and I never even met our parents. We were given up when we were very young. Anna takes it personally, but I like to think they had their reasons. I'm just glad there's hope for some of us to find our families." Elsa smiled to Tori as they hoisted lights up together. With the flip of a switch, Tori powered the red and green strips.

"Wow," the Padawans whispered in unison as the lights shimmered around them.

The shelter doors opened as another Jedi came trudging in. "Happy Life Day!" Datya shouted while tending to the homeless.

"Yeah yeah," Hans Westgard grumbled. He guided a repulsorlifted crate towards the lobby and nearly fell over in the process.

"Hans?" Elsa mentioned under her breath.

"What's that sleemo doing here?" Tori griped.

"I must say-" Datya began. "The shelter is quite a popular Jedi destination today. We'll take all the help we can-"

Hans shoved the crate in front of her and deactivated its locks. "There you go," he scoffed. "Happy Life Day and all that stuff from Master Gaston."

Elsa, Tori, and Meliz watched as Datya opened the crate. Her sudden scream had them rushing downstairs. While Elsa and Meliz darted for the crate, Tori went straight for Hans. "What the hell are you trying to pull?" the Pantoran snapped.

"Hey!" Hans fired back and raised his hands. "Don't blast the messenger. Gaston wanted me to send it. I don't know what the kriff is in there." Tori's unwavering glare was venomous while the others examined the crate. As a metallic-scented mist departed, a horned head came into view. The bizarre, quadrupedal creature barely fit in its container.

"Is it a sculpture?" Elsa asked.

"No," Meliz deduced. "Way too lifelike."

Datya observed a digital message and read it aloud. "Dear Vica Foundation...I've taken the liberty of sending you the freshest nerf I could fine. Sure, it will require skinning and cleaning, but if I did that...how could you possibly admire my kill? This delectable beast has been perfectly preserved in carbonite. Please tell all of the homeless that I, Master Gaston of the Jedi Order, hope they enjoy the flavorsome spoils of my hunt. No one gifts like Gaston." Datya confusedly swiped through the message and found a personal image of Gaston winking. "Is this Jedi...serious?" Datya cringed.

"Unfortunately," Meliz huffed.

"Datya," one of the volunteers called. The eldest Pantoran seemed to understand the situation only by looking at him.

"Oh dear. Does anyone here know how to prepare a creature like this?" Datya asked and hunched forward. She lowered her voice to a whisper and said, "You see, we're in a bit of a predicament here. The holidays have always seen a bigger surge in capacity at our shelter, but we usually have a resupply by then. And my volunteer's just signaled me that we've given out the last of our meals."

"Where's Dad?" Tori asked.

"He embarked on a resupply voyage back to Pantora," Datya explained. "I know how long those Outer Rim flights can take, but he should've checked in by now. I'd better give him a call. Buthri!" she shouted for her aid to bring a communicator.


A tremendous freighter glided through the starry void of the Sujimis Sector. The Vica Foundation's golden emblem vividly contrasted against its silver hull and shined in space. Hoff Vica oversaw his crew from a chromium-plated seat in the command bridge. "Sir!" One of his Twi'lek pilots croaked. "We have an incoming transmission from Coruscant."

"Probably the missus," Hoff chuckled. "Put her through."

"Hoff, darling?" Datya called over comms. "Where are you? Are you alright?"

"I'm fine, beloved." Hoff assured. "You know me. Why go double when you could go quadruple? Sorry for any delays. The ship's loaded with plenty of food, new clothes and upgraded beds for the shelter. Happy Life Day, my sweet!"

"You truly are wonderful," Datya replied. "Just please hurry home and be safe."

"Will do and see you soon. I love you."

"I love you too," Datya said before the transmission ended.

The ship's intercom chimed and Hoff took a listen. "Hey boss!" a Rodian technician called. "We may have a turbine malfunction down in the hold. Can I get your thoughts?"

"Sit tight and I'll be right there," Hoff ordered. "You four," he told the remaining crew on the bridge. "Set a course for Coruscant and prepare to make the jump to lightspeed. I shouldn't be long."

Hoff departed, leaving Kristoff pondering the accuracy of his salute. He glanced over at Sven, who seemed rather itchy in a pilot's uniform. Vivi snorted from her seat and typed away at her dashboard. "I want you all to know that it took everything not to vomit during that call," she snarked. "Darling," she mocked. "Beloved."

"Hush up," Crujik scolded beside her. "Patoni's luring him into the hold, but that'll only buy us so much time."

"Time for what?" Kristoff asked and the Twi'leks paused. The couple exchanged suspicious glances and countered with peculiar reactions. While Vivi rolled her eyes, Crujik tried to explain.

"You see, my friend." Crujik began. "This is..." He struggled to find the right words until Vivi simplified it.

"-the only way to make it look like an accident," she concluded.

Sven mooed in protest while Kristoff's jaw dropped. "Accident?" he gasped. "Hold on. You said this was a chance for the Outcasts to make real money."

"Real money," Vivi reiterated. "As in plenty of it. And who better to take it from than some wealthy Pantoran?"

The Twi'lek's cackling only infuriated Kristoff further. "You're just going to sell all of this supplies?" he asked. "This isn't right. It's for the homeless."

"Homeless that we can help ourselves once we have the money," Crujik lectured.

"No," Kristoff retorted. "We both know that isn't true. Once you gain that kind of wealth, you can't just give it back. You horde it. I've seen it before."

Vivi scoffed. "I told you it was a mistake to bring those two along."

"Just everyone hold on," Crujik placated. "Kristoff...Sven, the Outcasts are starving just as these homeless you speak of are. We need this supplies and the money will help."

"Then we can earn it fairly," Kristoff asserted.

"Time window's closing," Vivi muttered.

"Look," Crujik said. "You've got a good heart, kid. I admire that, but it drifts into the wrong places. You need to prioritize your friends sometimes."

Kristoff glanced at Sven before making his decision. He glimpsed the camera feed on Vivi's dashboard and watched her prime an airlock. "My friends aren't murderers," he said.

"It isn't murder if you can't prove it," Vivi corrected. Tired of their smugness, Kristoff withdrew a blaster and aimed it at her head. Sven mimicked his gesture and targeted her boyfriend. "Crujik," Vivi growled irritatedly. "What does this human think he's doing?"

"Step away from the controls," Kristoff ordered. His nostrils flared when the Twi'leks didn't budge. "I'm tired of the lies. I've lived a criminal's life once and I'm not going back. Now step away!"

"After everything I've done for you," Crujik pleaded. "I gave you opportunities when the Republic turned its back on you. I treated you like a son!"

"Don't give me that crap," Kristoff snarled and thought of Barbossa. "I'm not doing this again and I don't owe you a thing."

Crujik sighed. "Do as he says, Vivi. Get up."

His girlfriend's eyes widened. "But...the plan-"

"Just do it!"

"Karabast," Vivi scoffed. She reluctantly raised her hands and rose from her seat. "All the work to sneak into the foundation's crew...just to lose."

"We'll be fine," Crujik assured as he also stood up. Kristoff raised a brow when he noticed an irregularity. Unlike his girlfriend, Crujik kept his hands lowered. The Twi'lek's frantic eyes swayed in a pattern Kristoff had witnessed many a time.

In that instant, Crujik slid his hand towards a concealed blaster. He tried to raise it, but Kristoff shot the grip clean off. Crujik stumbled back and watched his broken firearm clatter to the floor. "No more tricks," Kristoff intoned. "Vivi, drop your pistols and kick them over to me. Sven, grab some emergency wiring and tie them up."

"So what now, kid?" Vivi jeered while surrendering her weapons. "You'll present yourself as a hero to an ungrateful Republic?"

"It's not about being a hero," Kristoff countered. "It's about doing what's right. The Republic isn't perfect. No government is and I accept that. But no matter what status you hold, there's always a choice between right and wrong."

Sven grabbed a thick set of emergency wiring while Kristoff considered how to explain things to Hoff Vica. Hey, sorry we posed as your crew and tried to steal your supplies. Sven and I didn't want to though, he considered saying and instantly facepalmed. Sven tightened the Twi'leks' restraints as a comlink chimed from Crujik's belt. The call was accompanied by a sudden rumble from the starboard side.

"We've got a situation over here," Patoni called in.

Kristoff plucked the comlink from Crujik's belt and answered, "You're damn right. It's over, Rodian. Your little heist is shut down and-"

"Incoming!" Patoni yelled, completely disregarding Kristoff's words.

Before they could comprehend what he meant, a tremendous blast shook the entire freighter. Communications silenced and Kristoff grabbed Crujik by the collar. "What did you do?" he interrogated.

"That wasn't us!" he hissed while Kristoff glared in disbelief.

"We wanted to steal the supplies, not destroy it." Vivi added.

Kristoff's grip loosened as he heard laserfire from their viewport. He rushed over to see the cobalt markings of a dreadful warship. "What...who is that?" he asked.

"The only thing worse than the Republic," Vivi scowled. "The Separatists. The ravagers of our homeworld. I know we have our differences...but if you want to survive, I suggest you untie us."

"She's right," Crujik added as the ship rumbled again. "The supplies isn't good to anyone if we're all dead and this is no time to argue!"

Kristoff and Sven exchanged worrisome nods before reluctantly untying them. Another blast sent warning symbols flashing across the dashboard. "The hyperdrive's hit," Vivi warned. "Guns please."

"No," Kristoff affirmed. "We find Hoff and Patoni first."

"Seriously?" the Twi'lek snapped while Kristoff kept them at gunpoint.

The bridge doors opened as the very men of the hour came scurrying in. Hoff collapsed at Kristoff's feet while Patoni blindly fired at something. "You know-" the Rodian blurted. "It's hard to jettison someone without the proper signal."

"Excuse me?" Hoff gasped. "Jettison?"

"It's a long story, sir." Kristoff told the Pantoran.

"One which none of us will live through if you don't give us kriffing weapons!" Vivi growled. "We've got bigger problems now and you need the firepower, kid!" Kristoff huffed and returned Vivi's pistols to her.

"I don't understand," Hoff panted while the others rushed about. "Why are you all armed? What's going on?"

Kristoff took a deep breath. "Your crew was planning a mutiny to rob you, only I didn't know it was a mutiny. I thought we were finally making honest money! Moral of the story, don't hire just anyone."

"I was just trying to be inclusive!" the old Pantoran explained.

"Now I need you to be elusive," Kristoff quipped and jumped into the pilot's seat. "Keep your head down. I'm gonna try and maneuver us out of here. Everyone else, try and buy me some time!" In those moments, Kristoff felt like the captain of his very own ship. He clenched the controls and sent the freighter swerving across the stars.

"Catch!" Vivi shouted and tossed Crujik one of her blasters. "Let's see what we're dealing with," she said. "Patoni, open the bridge doors." The Rodian obliged and revealed multiple waves of B1 battle droids. Their ominous marching was coupled only by a spray of scarlet lasers down the hall. "Close the bridge doors, damn it! Close them!"

Crujik, Vivi, Patoni, and Sven returned fire as the droids advanced. Their dreadful clanking permeated the sealed doors until they were right in front of them. "Those doors won't hold forever," Crujik lamented.

"Hey hoo-mie," Patoni hollered. "I don't know where you think you're flying us too, because the droids are already on our ship!"

Realizing this, Kristoff calmed himself and stepped away from the controls. "You're right," he said while checking an adjacent panel. "And they're jamming our communications. We'll have to stand and fight."

"Kriffing hell," Vivi huffed. "He's right. What choice do we have. We-"

The group went silent as a distinct set of hums sounded from behind the doors. It was enough to make them back up and start aiming their weapons. "Steady," Kristoff whispered. "Steady..."

Several metallic stomps had everyone's heart racing. In that instant, beams of green and blue plasma shot through the door. The bright blades scorched its metals and swiveled into a cleanly cut circle. The blades retracted as quickly as they'd appeared and a daunting stillness followed.

Sweat dripped from Kristoff's forearm and soaked his shaking wrist. Hoff raised his head from cover and asked, "What the-"

A taloned foot kicked through the sliced door. Whatever haunting, skeletal being had caused such an opening slinked back. It yielded so its battle droids could pour into the bridge. "Get'em!" Vivi screeched. She and the others blasted away at as many droids as they could. Sizzling B1 corpses littered the bridge while scores of them continued to march in. Their heavy laserfire forced Kristoff's group to take cover behind the chromium command seat.

"Sven!" Kristoff yelled over the laserfire. "No matter what happens, you'll always be my best friend!"

The Cevrian roared in agreement and rammed a battle droid with his antlers. He and Kristoff shielded Hoff with their bodies while the others kept shooting. It was only a matter of time until they were completely surrounded by B1s. Surprisingly, only then did the droids cease fire. This didn't stop Vivi from getting free shots on those closest to her. Crujik stopped her as they stood in a daunting silence. The expressionless droids kept them corralled for their armored host. The scrape of taloned, metallic feet was enough to have Patoni quivering and Hoff gulping.

Several B1s parted to reveal their powerful leader. His yellow, reptilian eyes were piercing beneath his skull-like face. Hoff emerged from between Kristoff and Sven. "General Grievous," he uttered as the cyborg's shadow loomed over him.

Grievous relished in the Pantoran's fear and laughed. His modulated voice obscured a cough while he seized Hoff by the throat. "Mr. Vica," he mocked while lifting him higher. "So nice to finally meet you. How is your wife?"

"Leave Datya out of this," Hoff croaked and writhed.

"I think not," Grievous replied. "In fact, why don't we give her a call? It is Life Day, after all."


Author's Note: My friends and dearest readers, thank you so much for reading part one of the first Frozen Force Holiday Special! It's an honor and pleasure to deliver this adventure every week. I hope you're having a fantastic time and I'll see you next week for part two!

NEXT WEEK...All paths converge for a holiday showdown! General Grievous has taken hostages and it'll take Anna, Elsa, and all of their friends to mount a rescue. The action never stops here at GoldenHeart Stories!

GoldenHeart Story Updates: "Anna's Creed" returns next Saturday, January 2nd.

Long Live Imagination and Happy Holidays!

~ Michael