Savior

+++++++++++++++++
Coruscant to the Verona En Route to Bonadan
+++++++++++++++++

We'll hit Walkar, Melbanka, Haalst simultaneously. The appointed General of the New Republican Army informed Senator Palpatine of his intentions. We will attempt to retrieve the Governor and Jedi Master Li'sarrow before the attack-

No need, Palpatine sliced the idea in two. The likelihood of their survival is minimal. Strike immediately. The Senator did not leave room for questions, but the veteran General was familiar with wartime etiquette and risked the query. Should we announce our intentions to the populace?

The stoic face revealed the Senator's resolve. Bonadan is now the enemy and should be treated as such. Strike as planned. Touching his lips lightly, Palpatine continued for confirmation. You are still jamming communication?

The General nodded in affirmation.

Make sure there is no outside contact with the planet until it is secure. No one goes in, no one goes out. Is that clear? Testing his general's loyalty, Palpatine cocked an eyebrow to assure that his every word be followed.

Yes, sir. ALL ports will be closed; no ships shall be allowed admittance nor departure.

Very well. He seemed satisfied enough in his choice when the decorated commander bowed respectfully.

Your counterparts will rendezvous with you shortly, at which time you may begin landing your craft. With that, the Senator ended the link.



+++++++++++++++++
En route Mandalor to Bonadan
+++++++++++++++++

In the short amount of time it took to gain a transport, the recently abducted healer had revived. The small amount of Speed with which Fianat had injected her actually counteracted the sedative Wek gave her earlier. Although any larger a dose might have been fatal, now she sat quietly behind the two Jedi as they lifted off Mandalor.

Hovering in the space port docking bay before gently easing away, Obi-Wan suddenly pulled the craft to a halt. Just before their take off, the control tower was attempting to reroute them to another atmospheric window.

Obeying, Obi-Wan redirected the small transport. While Qui-Gon did not demand an explanation, a look revealed that such was an odd maneuver, considering the space port seemed perfectly clear a few moments ago.

Both men peered out the front plexiglass barrier searching for the cause of the interruption. From just behind lay another hangar within which seemed an important entourage had amassed. Although they were unable to see specifics, Obi-Wan flew slowly out of their dock, increasing their vision momentarily before the view disappeared altogether.

It must be a diplomatic mission, Elia contributed, immediately recognizing the Mandalorian insignia. But the two Jedi merely glanced over to one another in quiet suspicion.

They watched as ten or more engines fired up readying to depart, and just before they slipped out vision, a rippling effect washed over the transports, rendering them invisible.

Why would a friendly diplomatic mission require a cloaking device? the younger Jedi thought aloud.

What do you mean? the healer popped her head between the two, but Obi-Wan commanded her to sit back as they were granted permission for take off.


*****


Half way into their journey, Obi-Wan began to get very nervous. I must be making a mistake, he mumbled to himself as he fidgeted with the keys. I can't get through. All communications are down on Bonadan, Obi-wan's voice hinted at nervousness, and a secondary glance at Qui-Gon revealed he was feeling the heat as well.

Contact Coruscant, maybe they imposed the blackout as a part of sanctions. I'll take it from here.

Yes, master. Obi-Wan spun out of the pilot's chair and logged into another system, strapping on a headset.

You're not making a mistake, Jedi Obi-Wan, Elia sat up out of her comfortable nook where the Jedi had thought she was sleeping. Communication has been out on Bonadan since I left. She wiped sleep from her eyes as if she were washing with imaginary water.

Pausing, Obi-Wan listened as she recounted her last conscious moments on Bonadan. ...Altogether, Bonadan has given itself over to Martial Law.

Qui-Gon had not foreseen such violence, buy now that the treaty had been signed, there would be no need for military advancement and they could refocus the singularity of retrieving Li'sarrow.

You'll be pleased to know, Qui-Gon concluded, that the healers made it safely Coruscant. Unfortunately, Master Li'sarrow is still not accounted for.

She stayed behind to look for me.... Dropping her head, she recalled the prayer she recited that her Master would not leave her behind. Could she take back a prayer?

Although Obi-Wan was on hold for more information, he listened to their conversation out of one ear. Now that Elia knew Master Li'sarrow was still in danger, she would never return to Coruscant independently. He had planned to secure an escort for the healer, and then retrieve Master Li'sarrow with Qui-Gon. Now, Elia would demand to go with them, and if Bonadan was in the condition she claimed, recovery of Master Li'sarrow seemed slim.

A voice interrupted and he had to turn his attention away from their conversation, though they continued.

Why didn't you go with them? Qui-Gon asked gently, reaching out a comforting hand.

Her eyes had glazed over. I went to kill M'ztka.

The direct statement cut the air. Obi-Wan, listening with half an ear, knew they would have to turn her in if she actually killed the political leader. Yes, I'm here...

But Anisse got to him first, the older man finished her thought as if he understood from the beginning. Touching her knee, it was all very clear to him what had happened those last few moments on the planet.

Tapping his bold knuckles with ginger fingertips, she thwarted emotion with a quivering chin, when Obi-Wan interrupted with an impatient tone.

No. I'm trying to reach the Jedi Council. My access code is 5`55`KB`.

Yes, its imperative.... Thank you.... Yes, he's here. We are en route to Bonadan now.... No, we've not made contact with anyone on planet for some time. Since yesterday 8030 ST. You can't get through either? They're what?

He looked over to Qui-Gon who hadn't even turned around, but remained patient throughout the conversation. We can be there in one hour.

Obi-Wan unhitched the headset and swiveled away from the consul. The new army is in control now.

Although the Jedi Master did not seem to reveal any reaction, he was thoroughly surprised by this move. What's the Council to say?

Master Yoda is trying to work with the Senate, but the army's already been deployed and is now in Trafalgar's hands.


Barely bothering with an upwards glance, Qui-Gon admitted their defenselessness in a sigh. We cannot interfere, and Master Li'sarrow is stranded with no idea.



+++++++++++++++++
Outskirts of Bonadan Air Space
+++++++++++++++++


An hour later, Trafalgar glided into the General's private quarters. His splendidly colorful attire dripped with golden medals that reflected superiority, but they were nothing more than heavy items of show. However, the clothes did not cover his casual demeanor as he sunk back into the soft dark skin of some gamed animal. Smiling, the two drank naturally. The Chancellor told me to expect you. We appreciate your cooperation.

Of course. We are here to do whatever we can, He swept open his palm in an courteous offering, and it was promptly filled with a glass of champagne.

After the general was served, they paused to smile at one another and toast to their success before moving onto business.

We've blockaded entry and departure, but we waiting for your signal before we went down below. The General directed him to view the miles and miles of ships that spread out into the stars around Bonadan.

You are certainly well equipped, the young man admitted, his lips curling in satisfaction.

The Republic was very generous with their stores. I guess they were afraid of appearing cheap. They laughed heartily over that one until Trafalgar got strangely serious again.

So you've not had contact with anyone?

No, not in any significant way. We've intercepted a number of small vessels attempting to flee, but they were either shot down or returned.

What about ships trying to get in? Trafalgar's mind spun with how the Jedi might infiltrate the blockade, and in the process, learn more than they need. There were a couple of cargo ships that hadn't heard about this mess, but they turned away with no problems.

I'm glad to hear it hasn't been a problem. But in the future, I'd like to be informed of all other attempts to penetrate the blockade. I may have some unexpected visitors.

The General narrowed his eyes, wondering if this might interfere with their intentions, but respectfully agreed to accommodate his wishes. As long as we can still go ahead.

Trafalgar worried that the general would soon learn out much more than he bargained for if the Jedi really did survive, as his father feared. He didn't care what happened to his sister, but he did care about preserving this newly acquired power. You are free to do so now.

The General's suspicions melted away into a smile as he stood. Are you ready then? Spreading his arm out before him, the General opened his hand to lead his guest to the bridge where he would assume command.



+++++++++++++++++
Outskirts of Bonadan Airspace
+++++++++++++++++


Onwards they sped towards Bonadan, trapped in the smooth black of space, where action was stilled at the mercy of Time, and one was only left with the truth of their own thoughts.

Qui-Gon's thick voice almost cracked into the stillness. How's that wound looking?

Obi-Wan slowly turned sideways with a look that clearly stated he didn't want to concern himself with it. It's nothing, he admitted quietly, losing his master's gaze out in the space before him.

Seeking distraction, it was at this moment that Elia even noticed he was wounded. So much for my senses, she noted to herself, unbuckling herself and scooting forward.

You don't even have a medkit, he commented with one last effort to be left alone.

The Bacta in your utility belt will do just fine, she admitted.

Resolved, he quietly pulled out the small pack of tincture and passed it on to Qui-Gon as Elia rolled up her sleeves.

Obi-Wan held back a roll of the eyes as Qui-Gon nodded for him to turn about. Swiveling around, the Jedi swung out his stiff leg. At some point, he found the time to tie off the wound, and as he loosened it, they were glad to see it had stopped bleeding even though his pant leg was burnished brown and sticky from dried blood. Slowly yanking his pant leg out of his boot, Obi-Wan gently rolled up the damp crumpled cloth.

As it neared the wound, he flinched slightly as it began to bleed again.

Here, I'll do it, Elia offered as he looked away and gripped the edge of his bucket consul chair as the wound tore further.

I'm sorry. Watching him subtly cringe, she made a diamond with her index finger and thumb over the wound. The area grew warm, and he was surprised to admit the sensitivity decreased enough to continue in more comfort.

Obi-Wan overtook Elia's hands and gently helped her peel away the fabric from the wound. A meaty flap of skin eased open, stuck to the fabric. Qui-Gon winced at the sight.

It's superficial. That's why you were able to walk on it. For the first time, she actually touched his bare skin, and it sent shivers up her spine. Delicately slipping her hand further up his pant leg, she gently lifted the fabric away from his skin. They could both feel him draw the Force around him to adjust to the discomfort. Flopping the skin back on top of the raw wound, she patted her fingertips along the top, and summoned her healing powers. An itchy, tingling feeling spread over the wound, and he unclenched his fists as the pain subsided.

Now rub the Bacta around, she commanded and sat back.

Qui-Gon handed it off, and took a long look at the healed area. He understood why the gene was so valuable. Whether it be used for good or evil, it was a powerful tool.


*****

After the excitement was over, it was natural to fall back into the anxious monotony. It seemed world's ago that Elia had been locked in her cage, a lab rat. She didn't want to think about that place anymore, but her thoughts kept rerouting against her will. Then there was Bonadan, that den of death. Why did she survive? There was something impersonal and numbing about the explosion that nearly drown out Marta's last words pleading for a merciful end to the horror.

Too self-conscious to cry about what was already gone, she hunched in the darkness of the corner and looked out into the stars pulling back when her breath fogged the window. Elia drew her feet in closer, and finally tucked them up under her legs. The black was comforting, isolated, and it swallowed her whole in its infinity.

Floating out in the inky distance, Bonadan loomed a lackluster gray, a mysterious quartz seemingly worthless. The next hour ticked by in an eternity, shortened only by the Republic's blockade far out in the distance. Still tiny dots, they soon rushed up to meet them.

Elia peered out the small porthole towards the planet, examining its intricacies. There were no strings of turquoise, and there was no pretty woman looking back at her, but she did notice the twinkle of colored lights that flashed out in the darkness. What is that?

Even from that great distance, they witnessed the demolition of the planet. An attack, Qui-Gon's steady voice was definitive. Buckle in. Displacing the shock that Bonadan was under attack, Elia strapped in as a hoard of red pellets battered the side of their transport. What are they doing? her eyes grew wide as a combat-equipped airship flanked their port side.

Shields up. Should we resist? Obi-Wan took a second to glance at his master as he evaded more fire.

No, there are too many fighters.

Instantly, the rolling ceased and Obi-Wan leveled out the ship as fighters encircled them. Let them escort us in, Qui-Gon reasoned. They will take us to whoever is in charge. At least we will have the resources to reach Li'sarrow.

HIs padawan did as he was told, but did not share his master's optimism that they would be given much help, especially if they found Trafalgar in charge.

Even before Qui-Gon finished his statement, their transport shook with the
gravity of a tractor beam. A single look among Jedi communicated patience, but Elia was sure they had to be a little apprehensive at the move. When the doors slid open, they were greeted with two officiates and a number of white clad guards, all heavily armed.

Taking this in stride, they allowed themselves to taken deep into the vessel without much more than a request to see whoever was in charge.


*****

The Jedi were lead down a maze of military corridors, yet strangely enough, they were not bound and their weapons had not been confiscated. Not sure what to make of this trusting move, Qui-Gon paid keen attention to the Force and hoped they would not have to fight, but when they were sealed into a mysterious room, his doubts arose.

Stepping forth from the center of the hexagonally shaped room, Trafalgar smirked at his guests as they were escorted in. Passing through two rows of sheer curtains, the guards held back in the purple shadows as the others slipped by the satin caresses of the drapes. Initially obscured by the transparent layers of shimmering cloth, they now saw the innards of the room in all its gilded glory. Oversized sitting pillows in a dual colored fabric lined the edge of the curtains, while an arabesque detailed throne headed the circular arena.

Wasting little time on appreciating the odd decor, the Jedi bowed to the sultan as Elia did little more than dip her head. Trafalgar snickered at the effort and mentally noted the number of personal bodyguards that he knew surrounded the room from behind the folds.

I'll bet you are surprised to see me, he finally spoke. Although none more than I you. At this, he tipped his champagne glass in their direction and took a giant swig, finishing it off, then smashed it down into the stone polished floor.

He continued, Well, it looks like I've got something you want, and you've got something I want. Trafalgar pointed at Elia, then curled a seductive finger beckoning her towards him, but received nothing more than a glare of disgust. If the Jedi seemed to have forgotten the girl in the singularity of their focus, they now moved together like the Cliffs of Scylla (Jason and the Argonauts) to guard her, but eased off when Trafalgar wagged his finger at them. Wait until you see what I've got.

In a number of seconds, Master Li'sarrow was pulled through a wall of opalescent tiers of glittering fabric. Catching her breath with relief, Elia wanted to rush forward into her master's arms and tell her how wrong she had been, and the choices she had made were selfish and careless. But now was not the time, Li'sarrow's eyes understood all and commanded her to stay put. Peering between the two Jedi, Elia noticed Li'sarrow's impeccable demeanor, and the fear that her master may have been injured on her account dissipated into hope. Li'sarrow's braids ringing her crown were untouched and her robe was not in the least disturbed. In fact, she looked entirely serene had it not been for the electro-shackles that bound her wrists.

Qui-Gon began, still weary that more guards were not within sight. Might I inquire as to why Master Li'sarrow is in your custody?

She has broken a trade agreement and infiltrated a secure area. A smooth lie, a skill fit for a politician.

As far as I understand the treaty we signed had nothing to do with a Mandalorian take-over.

His nostrils flared, and there was some movement behind the screens. Perhaps you haven't been informed yet, but I have been elected to-

If the offer is one Jedi for another, we do not accept, Qui-Gon bold words stood alone. He would not be talked down by a weakling politician.

Then you all will be dead within the hour. There was a feminine swagger to his hips as he turned his back on them and faced Li'sarrow, but Qui-Gon was not about to allow him to walk away.

By what means? We can easily take out your hidden guards.

Ha! The real question is, he turned a full circle, how would you plan on leaving? Your ship is still being held under our tractor.

Before Qui-Gon could respond, a messenger bustled through the door with a small plate. The youth read it efficiently and delicately set it back down, his cheeks creasing into a jester-like smile.


The stiletto heals pounding the slick floor announced her presence before a hidden door whooshed open somewhere behind the screens. Framed by the angular light piercing her sharp expression, she posed as rigid as a mannequin. One by one, she tapped out a straight line to the center of the room, brushing aside the drapery.
Look, dear brother, Fianat folded her arms across her chest. Should we not see surprise upon these faces after they left me to die?

Yes, it's been a true resurrection, dear sister. The last word slurred out harshly and he rolled his eyes at her drama as she continued.

You will die today, and so will all your precious Simmians. The saccharine words slipped out like from a forked tongue.

Why don't you keep me? Li'sarrow spoke for the first time, avoiding all eye contact with the Jedi lest they oppose her intentions. I am a healer. I am all you need. Subtly waving her hand towards them, she tried to persuade their thoughts.

She is all we need, Trafalgar whispered to himself turning towards her as if she had just solved his problem.

No, no! Fianat sliced a flat hand through the air and the clutched her brow with the other. If that's true, Fianat swayed and closed her eyes, Then heal this.

Her violet eyes flamed as she pulled forth a hidden blaster and shot Li'sarrow.


Time slowed as the Jedi ignited their sabers and kicked out towards the two siblings while colored light rained down the party from the hidden Mandalorian guards. Both Trafalgar's were instantly knocked down and the Jedi spun back to back to ward off the array of light that seemed to appear from the folds of the curtains.

Meanwhile, Elia lurched forward falling on top Fianat as the deadly rays passed overhead. Kicking her hard in the face, she swiped the blaster and crawled towards her master who lay in utter stillness on the cold floor.

Rolling her to the gold throne for cover, they laid next to each other as Elia sought out the wound. But before she could examine it, something caught hold of her foot, and she was ripped away from her master's side.

Trafalgar yanked, sliding her on her stomach across the smooth floor. Laying the entire of his body on top of her, he pinned her hands above her head and ripped the blaster from her grip.


*

The blaster fire, passing directly through the sheer curtains without so much as shredding even a single thread, peppered them from all sides, but continued to hide the aggressors such that it was impossible to attack the source. Shouting to move passed the curtains, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan worked towards one edge of the room, dodging red hot bullets in all directions. Keeping low, they maneuvered their blades in a keen sequence, careful not to deflect fire towards the others. Finally slipping between the two folds of curtains, they crouched low as the fire pinged above their heads. Blinded, the two Jedi could now neither see the guards or the others left inside the circle.

Suddenly all fire was concentrated one the area where they slipped through the curtains. Flying out in separate directions, they ran about the ring, stirring the air as they rushed passed. Realizing they were drawing more attention, they spread out flat, stilling all fire.

*

Obi-Wan closed his eyes and looked inward. Although he was blinded from the snowy shimmer of the curtains, he used the Force to seek out his target. The guards must be higher than eye level, he surmised, or they would have fired upon each other around the room. Reaching out with the Force, he felt for the location of the nearest guard. There was one directly above him, and fortunately, the well armed guard had no knowledge of him so nearby, and Obi-Wan only just realized, they had been shooting blindly all along!

Slowly, he stood and pulled forth Elia's electro-dagger that he had taken from Anisse. Jumping upwards, where they would least expect an attack, Obi-Wan rose above the length of the curtains and threw the blade directly at the guard, who stood on a wall mounted pedestal with a heavy loaded blaster. Fire rang out as it followed the rustling of the curtain and he landed a number of panels away. Within seconds, another barrage of bullets began and he slipped to the other side where guards hid in the elevated nooks.

*

Meanwhile Qui-Gon, too, had penetrated the second layer and drawn numerous fire, that he was now able to deflect back into the shooters. One by one, they ran about the circle and picked off the urchin by deflecting their own blaster fire and slashing with their lightsabers.

*

Trapped beneath Trafalgar's weight, Elia squirmed for escape, and eventually righted herself, even as more fire exploded about them in a display of flickering light that sparked about the energy curtains. Forced to lie down longways to avoid the random fire that rained horizontally about the room, Trafalgar struggled to keep her down, and keep hold of the only weapon between them.

But Fianat had come round, and sitting back against the throne with the Jedi master's head in her lap, she held the point of a needle at Li'sarrow's throat, just as she had done only hours before.

Now that the onslaught of blaster fire had dwindled, the air buzzed with silence. Pushing aside the curtains, the Jedi mirage before them, and Fianat looked to them nervously, and then back to Trafalgar. She would not fail again. Stop right there! she screeched as Trafalgar ripped the blaster from Elia's hand and pointed it at her forehead.

It was over in an instant.


Master Li'sarrow withdrew her violet lightsaber from beneath her folds, decapitating the young woman in one sure move. At the same moment, Obi-Wan slid Elia's dagger across the floor where she picked it up and jabbed it into Trafalgar's chest. Thrusting him off, he fell aside. Gasping for air, he crumpled to his back, clutching his chest in agony. As the Jedi went to help Li'sarrow, Healer Elia hovered over the Mandalorian on hands and knees and whispered prophetically in his ear, You are going to die. I can heal you.

The man remembered the Resurrected Thaum, and cursed himself with bloody cough. What you do want?

Her eyes were cold and unfeeling as he suffered there beneath her. I want you to honor the treaty and free the slaves. He began to cry with fear. Alright, alright. His face was blanched with death, but she went on as if his suffering wasn't enough, and he must look down at the valley below. If you ever clone a Simmian, I will reveal all I saw at Curel. Do we agree?

He whimpered a yes through suffocating gasps, and she willingly laid her hands on his chest. Li'sarrow joined her, and the wound miraculously mended and his breathing evened. As he fell into a deep healing sleep, she once again whispered in his ear, You will keep our bargain.

And that was the last word she would ever speak with Trafalgar.


Sliding over to Li'sarrow, Elia fell down on top of her, and the older woman folded her in her arms, relieved. When they finally pulled away from one another, they looked around the room to see the results.

The guards bodies lingered behind the panelling and the place reeked of death. Fianat's body lay drizzling like the beheaded Gorgon, and next to it, her pristine violet eyes threatening to spring open, turning one to stone.

Qui-Gon watched Traflagar climb to his feet and followed him out of the room as the three others held behind and waited for directions.



+++++++++++++++++
Later:
+++++++++++++++++


Qui-Gon obtained a shuttle with the General's blessings, and Chancellor Palpatine promised to explore the mess in further detail when the Occupation was over, but the Jedi knew it would be long forgotten by that time. Nonetheless, the four of them returned to Coruscant and reported to the Council as was their duty.

The reunion with the healers brought much happiness, but their voices were tinged with a sadness at their losses. Overall, the seven healers would now pursue different paths, which they hoped would one day cross again.

The Jedi continued to issue forth justice in the galaxy, though their days were numbered.

And Senator Palpatine and his minions, well, we all know the end to that story.

What would she say if she were ever given that opportunity? The Temple received them graciously as was expected, but found it difficult to face prying eyes and innocent inquiries. Even reuniting with her Healers seemed out of mind now that they were not in their home on Bonadan.

But what control did she have of that? It was time to relinquish the illusion that her influence mattered in any way. Perhaps in the end she was able to undo her disavowment of Li'sarrow, but the Simmians were a fight too big for her. She would have to live with the faith -and the doubt- that Trafalgar would honor her demand. In the meantime, she would have to give up.

Yes, the General was more than cooperative, Qui-Gon affirmed to the Jedi Council in debriefing.

Good. The treaty has been signed by the Chancellor. Bonadan will give up its live labor, but the process may take many decades. We are not likely to see it our lifetime, Mace Windu admitted to Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, or even Yoda's, he threw in doubtfully.

Good news though, we have. Dismantled has been this Benzoic Mechanism, thanks to Senator Mon Mothma. Rallied a great deal of support she has, and earned much respect in turn. Thank her we do.

Qui-Gon swallowed with pride. Mon Mothma had great heart, and it pleased him to see her efforts rewarded. He must pass on the congratulations himself.

As they exited the Council chamber, Qui-Gon also felt a congratulation was due to his padawan. How do you feel now that this has been turned over to the Senate to resolve?

I fear Bonadan will continue to be a challenge to the Republic for some time.

They paused at the skywalk that overlooks the city. That is no longer up to you. You have done well. It should be reward enough that the abolitionists have made a positive step forward.

I thought you said our opinions don't matter?

After seeing the suffering Simmians in the clinic, I, too, was moved. As Jedi, we may not be able to express our opinion, but we certainly have them.

I spent so much effort concealing my opinions that sometimes I feel like they don't matter.

He simply nodded. Those who do not directly express what they feel can be misinterpreted-

-Or appear cold, he finished, obviously refering to a specific instance, though his master wasn't sure which one.

Moments later, Healer Elia strode up with Master Li'sarrow. They bowed at each other formally, though it seemed rather silly to Elia after all they had been through.

Your turn? Obi-Wan nodded in the direction of the Council chamber. They both nodded but Li'sarrow answered for both of them.

Hopefully we will be able to put this behind us and move on, the comment was directed more towards the young healer than in response to the Jedi. Li'sarrow hooked a gentle palm along her shoulder and lead her away.

But before they moved passed, Qui-Gon reached out with the Bondani greeting, and Elia smiled as she touched the top of his hand. Obi-Wan did the same. Move on, but not forget, she thought to herself as she entered the Council chamber.



+++++++++++++++++
Later that day:
+++++++++++++++++


Landryth, huh?

Thaum smiled, noting her hesitation and anxiety. Don't worry, I'll be fine.

You're leaving tomorrow?

He nodded enthusiastically and swung his hands out from side to side before sitting down next to her. I promise to write.

How will you know where to send it? Even I don't know where I'm going, she rolled her eyes to see Obi-Wan standing in her doorframe.

Thaum kissed her on the cheek and nuzzled her nose before turning to leave. he gasped, and smiled. I'm off for Landryth.

I heard. Congratulations. It's an honor to be chosen to attend such a prestigious school. They touched hands in the Bondani fashion, and Thaum waved his good-bye to Elia before dashing out the door. I'll see you off tomorrow! she yelled after him, and stood to greet Obi-Wan.

Her eyes traveled the small space of the temp room before landing on Obi-Wan. I brought you something, he said.

She smiled and squinted her eyes at him as if suspecting somekind of silly joke. But when he pulled his hand from his pocket, he had a small package of seeds.



Where ever you go, it will be like home.

She didn't say anything but stood staring at the package.

I hope it's the right kind. He moved closer for a better look at her expression, but when she lifted her head, she could do no more than step into his arms.



+++++++++++++++++
Letter from Dathomir
+++++++++++++++++

Dear Master Li'sarrow,

I am hidden away safely on a remote corner of my homeworld, Dathomir. It has been a difficult transition since I have had to say good-bye.

Word has come to me that my theory was true. The New Republican Army did indeed fire upon the clinic as they sped away from Bonadan, Healers in tow. They claimed it was simply Riot Control. Ironically, many more deaths occurred at the Republic's hands, than at M'ztka's. I can't think what prevented me from murdering that abomination, but I am now quite thankful that his blood is not upon my blade. That was not my path.

Every now and again I hear that Bonadan is regrowing, to the benefit or detriment of Trafalgar, depending on the reporter. The Treaty of Walkar is being honored though, and that is truly the most I could have asked for.

As for myself, I have settled into a quiet place of my life. The woods are my home, and it is a rare occasion that I have visitors other than the village ill, who seem to regard me as a witch doctor. The science based galaxy from which I have flown does not understand these people as I do. They are my people.
I know I will not stay here forever, but it has taken some time to process or realize who I have become. As much as I may have wanted to save the Simmians from slavery, I could not succeed until I relinquished the fact that it was not truly my decision. Something far greater than me was a at work, guiding me, though I struggled to fight it.

No matter, for what I've learned, and sincerely believe, is that you can't save those who don't want to be saved. As much as Obi-Wan may have wanted, I wouldn't be saved because I lacked the courage to change. While they say no honor is lost in admitting defeat, where should I have gone, tail tucked between my legs, in the cold shadow of myself?
I now face a cold winter ahead, and death, but be assured that spring awaits, and with it, Resurrection.

Sincerely,
Elia

P.S. I've included letters for Thaum, and the other healers, and Obi-Wan. Please see to it that they are received.




+++++THE END+++++





+++++AFTERWARD+++++


This story is intended to reflect the Emperor's slow infiltration of the Republic that leads to its demise. A wise man, Senator Palpatine slowly built up reserves of wealth and power throughout the galaxy. Exercising his influence as a Sith Underlord, he was able to acquire cloning technology, that later enabled him to take over the galaxy. Not only was he creating an army of super soldiers, which would later evolve into Storm Troopers, but he also gathered the Republic's own forces against themselves when he reinstated the New Republican Army. Like all great emperors, he valued the importance of loyal leaders who would maintain his influence while he was away conquering more territory. In this case, Trafalgar was chosen because of his LACK of ambition and personal drive, making the character easy to control. By investing a great deal of his own wealth back into these at risk planets, he was also able to gain economic control of their systems while appearing a savior to the public. Overall, Lord Sidious' power spread like a virus over the Republic weakening it from the insides, at which time, he wiped out the last remnants of the Old Republic and crowned himself Supreme Emperor.

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Thanks for sticking it out until the end! I hope it was worth the ride.

Please read and review. I appreciate all constructive feedback.

+Merlynne