Jedi Keladry - Thanks for ready!! And yep, I as well love the 'shady'
types! ;) hope ya like this chappy. It's a little bit differ than I'm used
too.
Chandlia Jade - Thanks for reading too! Glad you are enjoying it!
This was a little shaky for me cuz of one of the plots that I have upcoming for the story. Though the man is back from the Outer Rim... the things that he has done still and will continue to haunt him. And because of that he is forever tainted. Hope you enjoy this segment, as I said it was a little shaky in the working of it!
Menaria and her friends slipped into an unoccupied study room that was near the classrooms to talk quietly.
"Did you find anything out?" Seriu asked as he programmed the door to reflect the room being used.
The knot had returned in her stomach making her now wish that she had not eaten breakfast. A furlong look took precedence on her face. "Yes...and...and it is all true." She whispered under her breath. 'How I did not want to discuss this!' She fidget slightly from one foot to the other and pulled at her braid's edge. Hoping that the reminder would bring happier thoughts, but alas it wasn't meant to be.
Nania paled considerably and sat down heavily in one of the chairs that were scattered about in the room. Her breath caught as Seriu glanced over at her.
"Nania are you OK?" He went around a small desk and knelt next to the girl. Laying a comforting hand upon her shoulder he looked into her pale eyes.
She nodded weakly. "I can't believe it. I..I had hoped it was just an exaggeration or even a prank being played by the Senior Padawans." Tears formed in her eyes as she glanced over in Menaria's direction. 'How does she feel, truly feel? How horrible for Menaria!'
Menaria bit the bottom of her lip as she felt the concern flow off her friends.
Kork caressed her arm slightly in reassurance. It was one of the Squib's responses for any stressful situations.
Menaria looked at her blue furred friend and smiled weakly. "It is a shock, but he does regret it. You didn't see him last night when I asked him...he.." She gulped loudly. "He does have remorse. But he had no choice. He.."
Seriu interrupted, his voice rose in volume. "No choice? What type of crock is that?! All have a choice whether to murder someone or not!" His eyes flashed with the rising anger.
"Seriu, he was undercover. He had to do a lot of things that he didn't want to do. If he had not the mission would have been compromised. The Republic gave him no choice. The Council...the Council even approved..." She trailed off as the realization hit her once more. Her voice choked up and she could not continue. For even she could not believe that the Council had approve of the mission and the fact they had sent her Master to do those terrible things, let alone any other Jedi for that matter.
Seriu's anger left him as he sighed and looked at Menaria's sadden expression. "I'm sorry. I did not mean to come across so angrily. I just can't see how the Council would allow something like that to happen. I can see the Republic doing it because of all the politicians, but the Councilors?" He was confused as he shook his head. "I don't understand. The Code forbids Jedi to kill except in defense. And even then it isn't looked upon favorably. We're always supposed to find a diplomatic solution in all aspects." He shook his head once more as he stood up from his kneeling position next to Nania.
"Perhaps there was a just cause for what they allowed him to do." Nania spoke up hesitantly. The others looked her way which caused her to glance down at her hands in her lap.
"But if that is so, then they broke the Code." Kork's fur rippled slightly as he flicked his ears back against his head. A rumbling sound was coming from his chest as he bared his canines. "How do they expect us to follow the Code to the letter if they don't?" His voice came out in a growl, deeper and more ferocious than what his friends were used to.
Menaria looked at him warily. "Kork, we can't judge them until we know exactly what his mission consisted of. He couldn't tell me due to the confidentiality of it. We must have faith if not in the Code then in the Force. The Force is our ultimate guide." Menaria exclaimed as she gently caressed his blur furred arm, using the same relaxation treatment on him as he had on her just moments ago.
The rumbling stopped as the initiate's shoulders slumped. "You are right; we don't know what it dealt with. And the Force is what we should ultimately listen to. I'll meditate on this after lunch. It is confusing..."
Seriu nodded. "I agree. We better get going otherwise we'll be late for our classes. Let's talk more about this later? Guess we'll have to do it after evening meal. Think your Master will allow you to, Menaria?" Seriu asked as he walked over to the console and keyed the room as being available once more.
Nania got up from the chair and hugged Menaria. "I'm sorry. I do hope it works out for you with him. I will try to give him a chance. He seems well enough."
Menaria smiled and returned the embrace. "Thank you." She said then glanced over at Seriu. "I'm sure he won't mind. See you later then. Coming Kork?" She waved at the other two as they headed down the opposite hallway. She waited for Kork to join her in the hallway and the two headed toward their class.
Lindoro waited by the Council's door. He was trying to figure out what they might want. 'I know it isn't Menaria and I definitely know it isn't me. I haven't been any where to do anything. Unless...no! I will not think of Nar Shaddaa. Or could it be a mission? So soon? I hope not. I wanted to see my Master...' But his thoughts were interrupted as the door slid open and a Senior Padawan bowed slightly, he assumed this was Lionel. "Knight D'Lockens, they'll see you now." The young man stepped aside to let him through. Lindoro nodded and walked into the circular room. The young man stayed outside.
Lindoro bowed respectfully at the few Councilors that were in the room; Masters Ki Adi Mundi, Adi Gallia, Mace Windu, and Yoda. Mace nodded in greeting to Lindoro.
"We would like you to hand carry a message to Senator Bail Organa. It is vital that he receives it and confidential enough to not send it by electronic means. He is on the 100th floor in room 162. You will not need to wait for a reply. He will be sending an aide later on or be coming here himself. We thank you and may the Force be with you." Master Windu said as he got up and handed Lindoro the packet. Lindoro bowed once more and left.
Being tasked to deliver the message was a distraction that brought a smile to the Knight's serene face. 'A little time away from the Temple will be good. Not that I'm bored or anything...well sort of.'
Signing out one of the speeders wasn't too much of a hassle. Knight Stani was on duty for the day.
"Hey D'Lockens, out for a spin?" The dark skinned human asked. He was a few years older than Lindoro. His height barely reached over five feet and was dressed in a unisuit that had multiple grease stains on it. At the moment he was wiping his hands off onto a dirty rag.
Lindoro shook his head. "No, actually running an errand for the Council." He waited patiently as Stani put down the rag and brought out a rather large data pad. Nodding, the mechanic handed it over to the taller Knight. Lindoro keyed in his clearance code and destination of the speeder. He marked the speeder out for several hours. It was still early in the morning and Menaria had her classes up until lunch time.
"Council seems to be having several folks running errands for them these last couple of days. Shoot the activities are picking up I guess. Makes you wish that a feller knew what was going on." The man said as he ran a hand through his short salt-n-peppered cropped hair. Once Lindoro was done with inputting the information, he took the pad back.
"Yeah, guess so. See you around." Lindoro nodded politely as he then headed off to the assigned speeder. He climbed in started the speeder up and headed off to join one of the many lines of traffic heading for the Senatorial building.
Little did he know that with in minutes of his departure, another figure signed out a speeder and took off after him.
'I've always loved coming here as a Padawan. All the chaos was great; people rushing to and fro and all the bickering over miscellaneous topics.' He sighed as he parked the speeder and leaped out of the seat.
The man trailing Lindoro parked his speeder a little down from the taller Knight's ride. He watched as Lindoro entered the building. Only pausing for a few moments he then slipped inside as well.
As he entered the immense building, he paused momentarily to look around. The floor consisted of black marble with silvery swirls. A variety of races of people were walking around, talking in small groups, and working at numerous desks that were scattered though out the large room. Some of the walls had pictures that depicted the Republic in all its glory. Statues of pass Chancellors were lined up near several turbolifts that were at the opposite end of the immense room. 'Nope, hasn't changed a bit!' Wearing a sheepish grin, Lindoro started off to a turbolift to take him up to the 100th floor. The looks he received from several senatorial aides caused him to remember not to grin so widely. 'People probably think I'm space happy or something! They probably never have seen a grinning Jedi!' This caused him to chuckle even more. Entering the turbolift he told his destination and awaited the lift to stop. He gazed outside the window as levels shot by. Watching the different levels of traffic that consisted of speeders, privately own cruisers, Republic cruisers, and other miscellaneous ships, he sighed with content. Once the lift stopped, he turned around and exited the lift. 'Now to find room 162...'
"Master Jedi!" A calm voice called out from his left. Turning toward the voice, he saw an older man in purple and dark blue robes coming down a corridor heading his way. The short graying hair and the regal face made Lindoro suspect that the man was probably a senator. The smile upon his face was genuine.
Lindoro bowed slightly, "May I help you, Senator...?"
"Palpatine, I'm the Senator from Naboo." The man offered his hand. Lindoro took it.
"I am Knight Lindoro D'Lockens." After letting the senator's hand go a chill passed through him. Something seemed to flash all too quickly in the senator's eyes. Lindoro shrugged the thought away thinking that it was possibly just a reflection from the lights as several aides had passed by at the same time.
"Ah, Knight D'Lockens. I have wondered at who you were." The man smiled as he began to walk down the hallway. He motioned for Lindoro to follow. The tall Knight did more out of curiosity than respect.
'He knows of me? Only a few of the senators and the Chancellor know. Hmmm he must be one of the top senators of Valorum.'
Something must have crossed his face as Palpatine looked up into the Knight's face and nodded. "Yes, believe it or not I've heard of the few dealings you have done out in the Rim. I discovered a couple of those problems and I am happy to be able to meet the man who set the wrongs right!" Though the man's words and body movements were ecstatic, Lindoro couldn't relate to the feelings that the man was emanating. For he was wondering which few that the man was referring to.
"I only do what the Council tells me to do." Lindoro stated automatically as he followed Palpatine onto an open balcony.
From the height they were at the sight was breathtaking. Lindoro cracked a small smile as he watched the traffic go by and a few clouds as well. The sight brought back memories of when he and his Master used to come to the Senatorial building in his Padawan days. Master Talias had several Senators that were his friends and spent ample time with them.
The look was not lost upon the senator. He watched the Knight closely. Ever since he shook the man's hand, Palpatine had felt something pass between the two. He could not tell if the Knight had felt what he had.
"Dedicated to the Order as all Jedi are, eh?" Palpatine smiled as he leaned on the edge of the balcony.
Lindoro was startled out of his reverie. 'Fool! Pay more attention! You're not a Padawan any more.' Lindoro berated himself as he tightened his jaw and turned to the smiling politician. 'Politicians...how conniving and twisting they can be. What does this man want?'
"That is true, Senator. And the Order serves the Republic in maintaining peace."
Palpatine nodded. "Peace...if only that which we both strive for could be maintained." The man sighed heavily as his smile faded to a heartfelt frown. Lindoro could feel the sadness roll of the man in waves. Concern filled the Knight. 'Has something happen recently?' His expression must have betrayed him as Palpatine looked upon his face and nodded.
"The Trade Federation seems to be causing quite a stir lately. Several worlds have left the Republic. So much going on and all at the same time." His voice lowered as he glanced around to ensure no one else was listening in on their conversation.
"There are several senators that are being watched closely. The Chancellor and a number of other senators believe they are corrupt!" He rasped.
Lindoro wasn't shocked. Where there were lots of politicians there was bound to be a viper or two in the midst.
"Does this surprise you, Senator?" Lindoro asked carefully.
The man seemed to be slightly taken back by the question. Chuckling, Palpatine tapped the tall Knight's arm gently. "Of course not! It is a never-ending occurrence really. I am just surprise at the quantity in question. Six are suspected! And an investigation is under way to see if there are more." The man shook his head sadly and looked out over the balcony. Not really seeing anything.
"A sad time for the Republic when the people that helps the worlds have fallen to greed and the want of power. Sad indeed." He sighed again.
Lindoro had to gather the Force around him to staunch the overwhelming grief that animated from the senator. It was so strong that it nearly caused him to stagger. 'If only more people were like this man. His grief is true not false.' The respect for Palpatine rose in the Knight. Without thinking, Lindoro placed a comforting hand upon the senator's shoulder.
"Things will work out. The investigation will fester out those that are corrupt. I am sure the Supreme Chancellor's justice will be swift and hard. It will discourage further corruption."
Palpatine looked up into the cobalt eyes of the Knight. The Jedi was sincere with his words. Hiding behind the grief and pain, the senator sneered inside. 'Right where I want you!'
"Thank you for your encouragement." Palpatine smiled sadly. "You are right. I should have faith in the Chancellor. I do hope the investigation doesn't get boggled up like most senate issues end up doing."
"I have a conference that I have to attend to for the Chancellor. I was going to request for Jedi assistance. Would you mind if I give your name once I talk with the Chancellor? I won't be leaving until next month." Palpatine's eyes returned to their brilliant luster as the gloominess left the man.
Lindoro allowed the Force to flow freely once more since the senator had regained control of his emotions.
"If the Council allows it then I won't have any problems with it. It would also provide an excellent experience for my Padawan." Lindoro smiled at that. 'Menaria would definitely like that. Traveling in space and seeing new worlds and their cultures was always the most exciting part of being a Padawan. Well also being a Knight, too.' He nearly chuckled at that but refrained.
Palpatine watched the fleeting emotions pass through the man's eyes. He had discovered over the years how to read a person by watching their eyes and body movements. 'This Knight's weakness can be seen through his eyes and obviously this Padawan is one as well. Damn! I was hoping he did not have one. I figured at his age that if he had one the brat would have become a Knight by now. No matter...'
"A Padawan? That's great! Is your apprentice close to becoming a Knight?" Palpatine asked innocently. If Lindoro had not been thinking to himself he might have caught the slight flare of anger. But the tall Knight was oblivious to the slight relapse of the senator's control.
"Oh no!" Lindoro did chuckle at that. "I just took her as a Padawan just the other day. Her name is Menaria. I'll introduce her to you when you notify me of your leaving. She is young; I do hope it won't be too much of a problem?" Lindoro asked as he smiled warmly.
"No, no of course not! A young face will be a breath of fresh air for my staff and me. We all being old folks and such!" Palpatine laughed and was joined by Lindoro. 'Not a problem at all.' The senator thought as he glanced at his chrono. He flinched slightly as he noticed the time.
"Well duty calls. Next meeting is going to start any second. I'll get back with you once I've talked with the Chancellor and him with the Council. Thank you again Knight D'Lockens. Especially solving the problems that had arisen in the Rim. See you later!"
Lindoro bowed. "Until later, Senator." The politician waved at the Knight as he was joined by one of his aides. The two walked into one of the large conference rooms that were a little ways down the hallway.
Lindoro headed off to deliver the packet to Senator Organa.
Chandlia Jade - Thanks for reading too! Glad you are enjoying it!
This was a little shaky for me cuz of one of the plots that I have upcoming for the story. Though the man is back from the Outer Rim... the things that he has done still and will continue to haunt him. And because of that he is forever tainted. Hope you enjoy this segment, as I said it was a little shaky in the working of it!
Menaria and her friends slipped into an unoccupied study room that was near the classrooms to talk quietly.
"Did you find anything out?" Seriu asked as he programmed the door to reflect the room being used.
The knot had returned in her stomach making her now wish that she had not eaten breakfast. A furlong look took precedence on her face. "Yes...and...and it is all true." She whispered under her breath. 'How I did not want to discuss this!' She fidget slightly from one foot to the other and pulled at her braid's edge. Hoping that the reminder would bring happier thoughts, but alas it wasn't meant to be.
Nania paled considerably and sat down heavily in one of the chairs that were scattered about in the room. Her breath caught as Seriu glanced over at her.
"Nania are you OK?" He went around a small desk and knelt next to the girl. Laying a comforting hand upon her shoulder he looked into her pale eyes.
She nodded weakly. "I can't believe it. I..I had hoped it was just an exaggeration or even a prank being played by the Senior Padawans." Tears formed in her eyes as she glanced over in Menaria's direction. 'How does she feel, truly feel? How horrible for Menaria!'
Menaria bit the bottom of her lip as she felt the concern flow off her friends.
Kork caressed her arm slightly in reassurance. It was one of the Squib's responses for any stressful situations.
Menaria looked at her blue furred friend and smiled weakly. "It is a shock, but he does regret it. You didn't see him last night when I asked him...he.." She gulped loudly. "He does have remorse. But he had no choice. He.."
Seriu interrupted, his voice rose in volume. "No choice? What type of crock is that?! All have a choice whether to murder someone or not!" His eyes flashed with the rising anger.
"Seriu, he was undercover. He had to do a lot of things that he didn't want to do. If he had not the mission would have been compromised. The Republic gave him no choice. The Council...the Council even approved..." She trailed off as the realization hit her once more. Her voice choked up and she could not continue. For even she could not believe that the Council had approve of the mission and the fact they had sent her Master to do those terrible things, let alone any other Jedi for that matter.
Seriu's anger left him as he sighed and looked at Menaria's sadden expression. "I'm sorry. I did not mean to come across so angrily. I just can't see how the Council would allow something like that to happen. I can see the Republic doing it because of all the politicians, but the Councilors?" He was confused as he shook his head. "I don't understand. The Code forbids Jedi to kill except in defense. And even then it isn't looked upon favorably. We're always supposed to find a diplomatic solution in all aspects." He shook his head once more as he stood up from his kneeling position next to Nania.
"Perhaps there was a just cause for what they allowed him to do." Nania spoke up hesitantly. The others looked her way which caused her to glance down at her hands in her lap.
"But if that is so, then they broke the Code." Kork's fur rippled slightly as he flicked his ears back against his head. A rumbling sound was coming from his chest as he bared his canines. "How do they expect us to follow the Code to the letter if they don't?" His voice came out in a growl, deeper and more ferocious than what his friends were used to.
Menaria looked at him warily. "Kork, we can't judge them until we know exactly what his mission consisted of. He couldn't tell me due to the confidentiality of it. We must have faith if not in the Code then in the Force. The Force is our ultimate guide." Menaria exclaimed as she gently caressed his blur furred arm, using the same relaxation treatment on him as he had on her just moments ago.
The rumbling stopped as the initiate's shoulders slumped. "You are right; we don't know what it dealt with. And the Force is what we should ultimately listen to. I'll meditate on this after lunch. It is confusing..."
Seriu nodded. "I agree. We better get going otherwise we'll be late for our classes. Let's talk more about this later? Guess we'll have to do it after evening meal. Think your Master will allow you to, Menaria?" Seriu asked as he walked over to the console and keyed the room as being available once more.
Nania got up from the chair and hugged Menaria. "I'm sorry. I do hope it works out for you with him. I will try to give him a chance. He seems well enough."
Menaria smiled and returned the embrace. "Thank you." She said then glanced over at Seriu. "I'm sure he won't mind. See you later then. Coming Kork?" She waved at the other two as they headed down the opposite hallway. She waited for Kork to join her in the hallway and the two headed toward their class.
Lindoro waited by the Council's door. He was trying to figure out what they might want. 'I know it isn't Menaria and I definitely know it isn't me. I haven't been any where to do anything. Unless...no! I will not think of Nar Shaddaa. Or could it be a mission? So soon? I hope not. I wanted to see my Master...' But his thoughts were interrupted as the door slid open and a Senior Padawan bowed slightly, he assumed this was Lionel. "Knight D'Lockens, they'll see you now." The young man stepped aside to let him through. Lindoro nodded and walked into the circular room. The young man stayed outside.
Lindoro bowed respectfully at the few Councilors that were in the room; Masters Ki Adi Mundi, Adi Gallia, Mace Windu, and Yoda. Mace nodded in greeting to Lindoro.
"We would like you to hand carry a message to Senator Bail Organa. It is vital that he receives it and confidential enough to not send it by electronic means. He is on the 100th floor in room 162. You will not need to wait for a reply. He will be sending an aide later on or be coming here himself. We thank you and may the Force be with you." Master Windu said as he got up and handed Lindoro the packet. Lindoro bowed once more and left.
Being tasked to deliver the message was a distraction that brought a smile to the Knight's serene face. 'A little time away from the Temple will be good. Not that I'm bored or anything...well sort of.'
Signing out one of the speeders wasn't too much of a hassle. Knight Stani was on duty for the day.
"Hey D'Lockens, out for a spin?" The dark skinned human asked. He was a few years older than Lindoro. His height barely reached over five feet and was dressed in a unisuit that had multiple grease stains on it. At the moment he was wiping his hands off onto a dirty rag.
Lindoro shook his head. "No, actually running an errand for the Council." He waited patiently as Stani put down the rag and brought out a rather large data pad. Nodding, the mechanic handed it over to the taller Knight. Lindoro keyed in his clearance code and destination of the speeder. He marked the speeder out for several hours. It was still early in the morning and Menaria had her classes up until lunch time.
"Council seems to be having several folks running errands for them these last couple of days. Shoot the activities are picking up I guess. Makes you wish that a feller knew what was going on." The man said as he ran a hand through his short salt-n-peppered cropped hair. Once Lindoro was done with inputting the information, he took the pad back.
"Yeah, guess so. See you around." Lindoro nodded politely as he then headed off to the assigned speeder. He climbed in started the speeder up and headed off to join one of the many lines of traffic heading for the Senatorial building.
Little did he know that with in minutes of his departure, another figure signed out a speeder and took off after him.
'I've always loved coming here as a Padawan. All the chaos was great; people rushing to and fro and all the bickering over miscellaneous topics.' He sighed as he parked the speeder and leaped out of the seat.
The man trailing Lindoro parked his speeder a little down from the taller Knight's ride. He watched as Lindoro entered the building. Only pausing for a few moments he then slipped inside as well.
As he entered the immense building, he paused momentarily to look around. The floor consisted of black marble with silvery swirls. A variety of races of people were walking around, talking in small groups, and working at numerous desks that were scattered though out the large room. Some of the walls had pictures that depicted the Republic in all its glory. Statues of pass Chancellors were lined up near several turbolifts that were at the opposite end of the immense room. 'Nope, hasn't changed a bit!' Wearing a sheepish grin, Lindoro started off to a turbolift to take him up to the 100th floor. The looks he received from several senatorial aides caused him to remember not to grin so widely. 'People probably think I'm space happy or something! They probably never have seen a grinning Jedi!' This caused him to chuckle even more. Entering the turbolift he told his destination and awaited the lift to stop. He gazed outside the window as levels shot by. Watching the different levels of traffic that consisted of speeders, privately own cruisers, Republic cruisers, and other miscellaneous ships, he sighed with content. Once the lift stopped, he turned around and exited the lift. 'Now to find room 162...'
"Master Jedi!" A calm voice called out from his left. Turning toward the voice, he saw an older man in purple and dark blue robes coming down a corridor heading his way. The short graying hair and the regal face made Lindoro suspect that the man was probably a senator. The smile upon his face was genuine.
Lindoro bowed slightly, "May I help you, Senator...?"
"Palpatine, I'm the Senator from Naboo." The man offered his hand. Lindoro took it.
"I am Knight Lindoro D'Lockens." After letting the senator's hand go a chill passed through him. Something seemed to flash all too quickly in the senator's eyes. Lindoro shrugged the thought away thinking that it was possibly just a reflection from the lights as several aides had passed by at the same time.
"Ah, Knight D'Lockens. I have wondered at who you were." The man smiled as he began to walk down the hallway. He motioned for Lindoro to follow. The tall Knight did more out of curiosity than respect.
'He knows of me? Only a few of the senators and the Chancellor know. Hmmm he must be one of the top senators of Valorum.'
Something must have crossed his face as Palpatine looked up into the Knight's face and nodded. "Yes, believe it or not I've heard of the few dealings you have done out in the Rim. I discovered a couple of those problems and I am happy to be able to meet the man who set the wrongs right!" Though the man's words and body movements were ecstatic, Lindoro couldn't relate to the feelings that the man was emanating. For he was wondering which few that the man was referring to.
"I only do what the Council tells me to do." Lindoro stated automatically as he followed Palpatine onto an open balcony.
From the height they were at the sight was breathtaking. Lindoro cracked a small smile as he watched the traffic go by and a few clouds as well. The sight brought back memories of when he and his Master used to come to the Senatorial building in his Padawan days. Master Talias had several Senators that were his friends and spent ample time with them.
The look was not lost upon the senator. He watched the Knight closely. Ever since he shook the man's hand, Palpatine had felt something pass between the two. He could not tell if the Knight had felt what he had.
"Dedicated to the Order as all Jedi are, eh?" Palpatine smiled as he leaned on the edge of the balcony.
Lindoro was startled out of his reverie. 'Fool! Pay more attention! You're not a Padawan any more.' Lindoro berated himself as he tightened his jaw and turned to the smiling politician. 'Politicians...how conniving and twisting they can be. What does this man want?'
"That is true, Senator. And the Order serves the Republic in maintaining peace."
Palpatine nodded. "Peace...if only that which we both strive for could be maintained." The man sighed heavily as his smile faded to a heartfelt frown. Lindoro could feel the sadness roll of the man in waves. Concern filled the Knight. 'Has something happen recently?' His expression must have betrayed him as Palpatine looked upon his face and nodded.
"The Trade Federation seems to be causing quite a stir lately. Several worlds have left the Republic. So much going on and all at the same time." His voice lowered as he glanced around to ensure no one else was listening in on their conversation.
"There are several senators that are being watched closely. The Chancellor and a number of other senators believe they are corrupt!" He rasped.
Lindoro wasn't shocked. Where there were lots of politicians there was bound to be a viper or two in the midst.
"Does this surprise you, Senator?" Lindoro asked carefully.
The man seemed to be slightly taken back by the question. Chuckling, Palpatine tapped the tall Knight's arm gently. "Of course not! It is a never-ending occurrence really. I am just surprise at the quantity in question. Six are suspected! And an investigation is under way to see if there are more." The man shook his head sadly and looked out over the balcony. Not really seeing anything.
"A sad time for the Republic when the people that helps the worlds have fallen to greed and the want of power. Sad indeed." He sighed again.
Lindoro had to gather the Force around him to staunch the overwhelming grief that animated from the senator. It was so strong that it nearly caused him to stagger. 'If only more people were like this man. His grief is true not false.' The respect for Palpatine rose in the Knight. Without thinking, Lindoro placed a comforting hand upon the senator's shoulder.
"Things will work out. The investigation will fester out those that are corrupt. I am sure the Supreme Chancellor's justice will be swift and hard. It will discourage further corruption."
Palpatine looked up into the cobalt eyes of the Knight. The Jedi was sincere with his words. Hiding behind the grief and pain, the senator sneered inside. 'Right where I want you!'
"Thank you for your encouragement." Palpatine smiled sadly. "You are right. I should have faith in the Chancellor. I do hope the investigation doesn't get boggled up like most senate issues end up doing."
"I have a conference that I have to attend to for the Chancellor. I was going to request for Jedi assistance. Would you mind if I give your name once I talk with the Chancellor? I won't be leaving until next month." Palpatine's eyes returned to their brilliant luster as the gloominess left the man.
Lindoro allowed the Force to flow freely once more since the senator had regained control of his emotions.
"If the Council allows it then I won't have any problems with it. It would also provide an excellent experience for my Padawan." Lindoro smiled at that. 'Menaria would definitely like that. Traveling in space and seeing new worlds and their cultures was always the most exciting part of being a Padawan. Well also being a Knight, too.' He nearly chuckled at that but refrained.
Palpatine watched the fleeting emotions pass through the man's eyes. He had discovered over the years how to read a person by watching their eyes and body movements. 'This Knight's weakness can be seen through his eyes and obviously this Padawan is one as well. Damn! I was hoping he did not have one. I figured at his age that if he had one the brat would have become a Knight by now. No matter...'
"A Padawan? That's great! Is your apprentice close to becoming a Knight?" Palpatine asked innocently. If Lindoro had not been thinking to himself he might have caught the slight flare of anger. But the tall Knight was oblivious to the slight relapse of the senator's control.
"Oh no!" Lindoro did chuckle at that. "I just took her as a Padawan just the other day. Her name is Menaria. I'll introduce her to you when you notify me of your leaving. She is young; I do hope it won't be too much of a problem?" Lindoro asked as he smiled warmly.
"No, no of course not! A young face will be a breath of fresh air for my staff and me. We all being old folks and such!" Palpatine laughed and was joined by Lindoro. 'Not a problem at all.' The senator thought as he glanced at his chrono. He flinched slightly as he noticed the time.
"Well duty calls. Next meeting is going to start any second. I'll get back with you once I've talked with the Chancellor and him with the Council. Thank you again Knight D'Lockens. Especially solving the problems that had arisen in the Rim. See you later!"
Lindoro bowed. "Until later, Senator." The politician waved at the Knight as he was joined by one of his aides. The two walked into one of the large conference rooms that were a little ways down the hallway.
Lindoro headed off to deliver the packet to Senator Organa.