All right here it is... I humbly ask your pardon on the choppiness, the lack of details in the room, and if there be any other probs with it. Not only sleep deprivation hitting me but this having to work late everyday (prepping for this inspection) is killing me. But here it be!!
Juz in case you are wondering about the song I picked to represent this chapter is for Palpatine and Lindoro.
THANKS so much for sticking with me and reading my story.
(Warning to any Finis fans... my humble apologies for not describing him in detail or having him talk his normal LONG speeches hehehe oh don't get me wrong! I love Finis! And I was soooo heartbroken when Palpy got him kicked out.. but then again Palpy had to come to power some how! hehe)
##################
Crowded streets are cleared away
One by one
Hollow heroes separate
As they run
You're so cold
Keep your hand in mine
Wise men wonder while strong men die
If you find your family
Don't you cry
In this land of make believe
Dead and dry
You're so cold
But you feel alive
Lay your hand on me
One last time
Show me how we end this all right
Show me how defenseless you really are
Satisfied and empty inside
Well that's alright
Let's give this another try
"So Cold" by Breaking Benjamin
The morning was alive with the hustling of many Padawans and Initiates as they prepared for the seasonal celebration. Banners depicting numerous Mon Calamari historical events were being put up on the walls.
Menaria had gotten up earlier than usual to help her friends out with the banners. They were assigned the duty of placing them throughout the large meeting rooms that had been chosen for hosting the event.
"How many Senators are supposed to be coming?" Kork asked as he held the ladder while Seriu posted another banner upon the high wall. This particular room was 30 feet in height and 60 feet wide with a dome ceiling that allowed sunlight from the outside to shine in. It was well over 200 feet long and numerous tables were pushed up against the far walls to provide room for people to walk around. The tables were beginning to be covered with items from Mon Calamari and other keepsakes that people would be allowed to take with them. Food and drinks were to be placed out a little later prior to the start of the celebration.
"I've heard that at least 100 were going to be able to attend. Of course the Mon Calamari Senator will be here, wouldn't be right if he didn't come!" Nania spoke up as she held up a banner and used the Force to levitate it up to Seriu. The boy reached out and gently took the banner to be positioned beside the other one he had just finished putting in place.
The four had decided to use historical events for the banners. Several had the past wars of the planet while the majority showed negotiation meetings and a few of their ancient ceremonial holidays.
Lindoro spent most of the early morning meditating in the Map Room. The alarm he had set earlier began to beep at 0940. The noise drew him out of the deep trance. He realized it wasn't as relaxing as yesterday's, but it served its purpose. He hated crowds…and the idea that he was going to be in the midst of a lot of people was unsettling. 'Perhaps the Senator will not be in the middle of it all…but then again he is a politician and they all crave crowds.' Sighing, he got up from the floor and headed toward where the celebration was going to be held at. 'I did promise Menaria to see her banners that she help create.' He reminded himself as he walked into the turbolift.
The lift had several other Jedi in it, who were also heading for the celebration. He kept a serene outlook as several attempted to keep a little distance away from him. One, however, did not. And as Lindoro stepped away from those who had stepped away from him, he almost did not see Master Yoda in time. The little Master cleared his throat to get the taller Knight's attention in order to prevent from being stepped on.
"Forgive me, Master." Lindoro said with embarrassment as he bowed.
"Forgiven you are. More aware you should be, Knight D'Lockens." Master Yoda said as he leaned on his gimer stick, eyeing Lindoro.
The Knight could tell that the green Master was not upset as he spotted the twinkling in his large yellow green eyes. "Yes, Master, I should be. I was just thinking."
"Hrmmm. Returning tomorrow Master Banz is. Looking forward to this you are?" Yoda's ears raised slightly in question.
"Yes, Master. It has been too long since I visited with my Master." Lindoro answered as he started out of the turbolift after the shorter Jedi. He kept his pace to a minimal in order to keep in pace with the little Master.
"Yes, long it has been. Training with your Padawan, going well it is?" The tapping of the Master's walking stick was barely heard over the voices of the gathering of people outside large double doors that led in to where the celebration was to be held.
"It is going extremely well, Master. Padawan Darce is a very adept student. She has the knack of picking up on lessons rather quickly. And she amazes me at how wise she can be at times." Lindoro couldn't help but smile while talking about his apprentice. For what he said about Menaria was the truth.
"Good, glad am I that she is proving as such." He said as he walked up to the doors. The crowd had formed an opening for the little Master.
Lindoro trailed behind respectfully, allowing the Master to lead. Once the two had passed, the others formed up behind them.
Numerous Jedi whispered under their breaths about Lindoro, but he blocked their words out as he tried to focus on Menaria. If Master Yoda heard any of it, he did not react as if he had. The Master walked up to the double doors, and gently pushed against them. They opened up to reveal the immensity of the inner room. Master Yoda then proceeded inside heading for the far back.
Tables that were aligned against the side walls had all kinds of items for display, to take, to eat, and to drink.
Lindoro's eyes immediately shot up to view the multiple decorations and banners that varied in colors of reds, browns, and greens. The banners literally covered just about all the space on the walls. 'They did an exceptional job.' His smile widen as he took in the sight. Numerous banners had combat scenes. 'Probably was Kork's idea…' Some others had different vessels that the Mon Cal were responsible for making. 'That had to be Seriu's.' The remaining ones were displays of historical diplomatic moments and others were ceremonial holidays. 'Those were Menaria's and Nania's.'
He looked to see where Master Yoda was heading and saw the little Master walking towards a floating podium at the far back of the room. Lindoro recovered from his shock and followed the little Master. 'I've never seen this room before. Then again there are many rooms I've yet to explore.' His eyes lit up as a smile crossed his lips. 'I vow that before I die I will visit every room in the Temple, well those that are accessible of course!' He chuckled to himself as he thought of Menaria. 'Perhaps she'll want to explore with me.'
Lindoro then looked for his Padawan and found her several tables down from the floating podium. She was readying drinks that were to be tasted.
"Hello Master!" She waved as she offered him a glass to try. "It's one of the Mon Calamarian's famous juices. It's a little spicy, but actually pretty good." Her green eyes sparkled as she watched him take a sip.
Lindoro's eyes lit up as the thick yellowish-brown liquid slid down his throat. His taste buds nearly screamed as he coughed quietly. "You are right about that. It does have a bite…but also a very satisfying after taste. Hrmmm fruity and…" He took another drink. "It has some alcohol in it, doesn't it?" He eyed the near empty glass questioningly.
"Just a little. At least that is what Master Enlij said. He did the batch up." She pointed over at the end of the table where a reddish-brown Mon Cal Jedi was in the process of making more of the drink. His coloring was much darker than Master Delak's.
"Well, be sure not to drink too much then Padawan, or your friends. We don't need the added entertainment from drunken young ones." He chuckled.
"Of course, Master. That's why we have the tables labeled so people will know what exactly is in the food and drinks." She pointed across from them toward a table laden with multiple Mon Cal deserts. Kork waved back at them, smiling largely. "Kork was ecstatic when he found out which table he'd be assisting with." Menaria giggled. "Seriu is over at the weapons down the line and Nania is helping with the botanical table on the other side down from Kork."
Several people came up to the table, so Lindoro decided to leave. "I'll be back later. And do tell your friends that you all did a wonderful job on the banners. Very good indeed." He waved to her as he headed off.
Menaria smiled widely. "Thanks Master! I'll tell them!" She called to him as he joined the bustling of people walking toward the podium. She poured several more glasses for those that had walked up to the table curious about trying the juice.
Lindoro made his way toward the middle of the room and tried to stand off to the side somewhat away from the people. It was difficult, but he managed to find a small opening to step into. At the moment most of the people entering the double doors were fellow Jedi. But he knew that soon enough others would be entering; senators and their aides, dignitaries, and a strew of other types as well would be coming to attend the celebration.
Lindoro did not envy the Jedi who got tasked for security detail. He knew that right at this moment the Jedi tasked would be requesting people to hand over any armaments that they carried. Also they would ensure that people were actually there for the celebration and not to cause trouble. 'Like assassins.' Lindoro thought. 'Where Senators congregated there was bound to be trouble.' He smirked at that and turned back to observe the people visiting each table. Some tables had datasheets and holopics of Mon Calamari, its people, wild life, and plant life.
Lindoro sighed as the place began to fill with even more people. Checking his chrono he saw that it was going to start officially any time now. Several familiar blue clothed and armored guards started filtering in the room. 'The Senators have arrived.' He slowly breathed to ease the tension of his muscles, as he realized they had started to bunch up due to the crowd. A smile returned to his face at the idea of meeting up with the Naboo Senator again. His anxiety left him as soon as he spotted the shorter, older man. The Senator was wearing a grayish robe that was lined with silver and black designs.
"Knight D'Lockens!" Palpatine reached out with both his hands to take the Jedi's right hand in a firm grasp and shaking it warmly. The elder man smiled up at Lindoro. "Looks like a pretty good turn out."
Lindoro's smile equaled the Senator's. "It is good to see you, sir. And yes, the celebration is just about to start though I'm sure more people will be arriving shortly."
"Magnificent job on the banners, if I do say so myself." Palpatine commented as he looked around at the wall decorations. He then turned his head back to the Jedi and before he could say anything further, chimes sounded in the room.
The room slowly got quiet as their attention was drawn toward the back of the room. Numerous Senatorial guards were taking positions near the floating podium. Lindoro smirked as he watched them. 'I always got a kick out of their helmets…always wondered what the crested fringes were for…decoration of course.' Lindoro thought as he searched for the tall regal man that would be following shortly behind the guards.
Within seconds the Galactic Senate's Supreme Chancellor Finis Valorum walked through the smaller door that was slightly behind and to the left of the podium.
The Chancellor smiled at those that greeted him, his light blue robes went well with his shimmering shirt and slacks that ranged from white to pale silver in color depending on how the light reflected off of them. The tall man came to a stop near the podium as he waited for it to lower.
The podium was a dark wood frame that held the Republic's symbol on the front. It was a good two feet in width and four feet in height.
The podium was lowered and the Chancellor walked up on to the short step that was attached to the stand. Once on the step, it began to rise and leveled off around fifteen feet from the ground.
Murmuring had started back up at the arrival of the tall leader and chimes sounded once more to get the people's attention.
Chancellor Valorum cleared his throat quietly and began his speech.
'By the Force I hope it's short.' Lindoro thought as he stood next to the Senator. Chancellor Valorum was known for his lengthy talks. He glanced over at Palpatine and saw that the man's expression was lined with curiosity.
"My fellow Republicans, we gather once more to celebrate our Thanksgiving for another standard year that has passed peacefully. Each year we select one of our friends' heritages in order to recognize their past feats. This year we have selected the Mon Calamarians. Please enjoy yourselves and learn more about our companions as we celebrate this annual event." He raised his arms stretching them out slightly emphasizing the multiple tables aligned against the walls of the room.
Applause erupted afterward as people began to head for the tables to check out their contents.
"Well that was short." Lindoro mumbled before he could stop himself. He mentally reprimanded himself as he bit his lip, he was fixing to apologize to the Senator when the elder man spoke up.
"Yes, quite short and so unlike the Chancellor." He chuckled as he mumbled back to the Knight. They both watched the man walk off the step once the podium lowered back down to the ground. Chancellor Valorum shook hands with the Senator from Mon Calamari and posed for the holopics as they were being taken by the media from several Coruscant news centers.
"I've never liked the media. What about you?" Palpatine smirked as he turned to eye the tall Knight.
Lindoro smiled crookedly back. "We Jedi tend to avoid them at all cost if possible, Senator."
Palpatine chuckled in response. "Do introduce me to your Padawan. Is she here?"
Lindoro nodded. "Yes, she's over at the refreshment area overseeing the drinks. Follow me and I'll show you." He then led Palpatine over to the table where he had seen her last.
Several people greeted Palpatine and the Knight. Lindoro bowed slightly in turn to each one while Palpatine smiled and greeted them back.
Menaria saw her Master and waved at him. She then noticed the shorter man with him once they reached the table. She offered the man a glass full of the juice.
Palpatine took it and smiled at her. "Thank you my dear."
"Padawan, this is Senator Palpatine from Naboo. Senator this is my Padawan, Menaria Darce."
Menaria bowed. "Senator, I am happy to be able to meet you." Which indeed she was for she had hoped to meet the man who had brought relief and some cheer to her Master.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Padawan Darce." He then eyed the drink.
"It has a kick, Senator, but I thought it was pretty good." Lindoro warned the man before he took a drink.
Palpatine took a cautious taste of the juice. "Indeed, it does have a 'kick' so to speak, but a nice one. And it actually has a great flavor." He took another drink, nodding with approval. "I'll have to keep this in mind for future usage." He then turned his attention back to the Padawan. "You and your friends did a great job on the banners. I truly enjoy the themes, an excellent mixture."
Menaria beamed as her face flushed slightly at the compliment. "Thank you, Senator. We thought the combinations would suffice."
"Ahhh how modest you are my dear! You sound almost like your Master." Palpatine chuckled.
Lindoro grinned at that as well.
Palpatine's smile reflected in his eyes, but for a totally different reason. 'She is young and won't prove to be a problem after all. At this age they are so naïve. Good…good…most excellent indeed. She won't be an interference with my plans. She'll be as blind to them as he is. The fool! Little does he know that I can sense his growing doubts. I can not wait until we arrive on Keliar. Then I can see my plan unfold.'
The temptation to chuckle was too much as it escaped his lips. He used the comment earlier to cover it. "What else have you taught your Padawan? Hopefully the enjoyments of the variety of foods from different worlds?" Palpatine patted the Knight's arm teasingly remembering what the Jedi had said before about when he was a Padawan.
Lindoro's eyes widen slightly at the joke and he joined with the Senator's laughter. "Not quite Senator, but who knows there is still time." His dark blue eyes twinkled with mirth as he enjoyed the Senator's presence. For some reason when he was with Palpatine he felt relaxed and his dislike for crowds vanished.
"Master!" Menaria giggled as she gave a glass to another Senator whom had walked up to the table along with his aide. The two were eyeing the Naboo Senator and the Jedi curiously. Their three eye stocks focused first on Palpatine then on Lindoro.
Lindoro bowed a greeting while Palpatine nodded to the Gran Senator as well. The Gran smiled and nodded to both of them and then thanked the Padawan for the drinks. The two tasted the juice and continued on to the next table.
"Well Padawan, guess we should let you continue with your tasking. I'll swing by in a couple hours to get your for mid day meal."
"I'll be here Master." She then bowed to Palpatine once more. "It was nice meeting you, sir."
"It was great meeting you. I do hope we can get to know one another eventually as well." Palpatine smiled warmly at the bowing girl.
As the two walked away to visit the other tables, Palpatine eyed the Knight besides him. "She seems like a bright and cheerful girl. Is she helping you with those issues as well?" The Senator murmured as the weapons table caught his attention. Numerous primitive weapons were displayed. Several looked like a mixture of spears and tritons. Palpatine fingered one that appeared to be made out of a red coral like material.
Lindoro tensed slightly at the question, but relaxed after taking several slow controlled breaths. "Yes, sir. She is and when I'm with her it's almost like I'm a different man." He trailed off as he realized what he was saying and the truth hit him hard.
'She is right for me.' A silly grin found its way on the Knight's face, crinkling his mustache.
Seriu bowed at the Senator and Lindoro's arrival. "Greetings Knight D'Lockens." The initiate smiled widely. It was obvious the boy was having fun being at this display table.
Lindoro nodded back as he saw that Palpatine had walked a few feet further down from him. He smiled at Seriu as he went to catch up with the Senator.
Palpatine felt the change come over the Knight. 'Naïve the girl might be, but it looks like she will prove troublesome to what I have planned. A most challenging quest that I have set myself up for, but one that I look forward to accomplishing.' He smirked as he fingered the coral triton one last time. He then turned and smiled warmly as the Knight walked up besides him. "Well then, I say that is a good sign."
Lindoro focused on the Senator, "Yes sir, it is and you have helped as well. Even though we have talked only a little, it helped tremendously." Lindoro paused as a couple of Aqualishians walked by and greeted the Jedi and Senator, nodding their hair-lined faces. Lindoro had always been amazed at how the species could talk around the two large inwardly-pointing tusks that hung from their mouths. The two greeted the Aqualishians back as they continued walking.
"I do look forward to talking with you again." The light that shined in the Knight's eyes was of hope; the possibility that had been offered.
Palpatine smiled knowingly. "Of course, of course we'll talk again. Like I said yesterday, just let me know when. I do not want to interfere with your Master's return." He paused just for a few seconds to view the next table. It held datasheets and pictures that depicted several of the Mon Calamari's historical wars. As he flipped through the sheets, he spoke up again. "I do hope you will talk with him about what you have talked with me. Well that is what you can, I know you can't give details but you can tell him the results." He then looked up into the taller man's face.
Lindoro's step faltered just a little. Most people would not have noticed, but Palpatine did. The Knight bowed his head causing his long black hair to cover his facial expression. "I will…though I don't look forward to it. Don't get me wrong." His head shot back up as his eyes shimmered anxiously. "I look forward to his return, it has been so long. It's just that I…" His voice drifted off as his throat clinched and he cursed himself at his lack of control in front of the Senator.
Palpatine reached out and laid a comforting hand upon the Knight's shoulder and eyed him warmly. "He will understand as any loving father would." Palpatine said quietly under his breath in order for only Lindoro to hear. "If I was your father…or Master in this matter, I would be honored to call you mine and would also be proud of your achievements that you have done for the Republic. There should be more people like you who truly care for our government."
Lindoro swallowed heavily and nodded. "I hope so Senator, I truly hope that he will understand. And I thank you for saying that." Those last words, though whispered made the Knight's troubled heart soar. 'He's proud of me…and we don't even know each other all that well!' A light returned to his eyes at that thought.
"Come let's talk about something else. We don't need a gloomy Jedi, now do we?" His lighter blue eyes sparkled with humor.
"Of course, Senator." Lindoro smiled widely in return as he enjoyed the moment.
"Finish your drink, this is really good actually." Palpatine motioned toward the half-empty glass in Lindoro's hand as he finished off his own drink. "Nice bite indeed." He chuckled.
The two talked as they walked to the other tables trying the different foods and other drinks. Their conversations ranged from the upcoming mission to some of Lindoro's past missions, though the latter was carefully worded and quietly spoken about.
The next couple of hours seem to go by all too quickly for Lindoro's liking and he felt a twinge of disappointment and longing as Palpatine bid him good day.
"Don't forget to contact me so we can schedule lunch." The Senator smiled as Lindoro bowed at him.
"I will, Senator, good day." Lindoro sighed as he watched the elder man leave through the double doors. 'He is the first non-Jedi that I've come to appreciate. I just wished we had more time, though we will, soon.' At that thought, he smiled and turned to find his Padawan so they could go and eat. Even though he had sampled a variety of foods, his stomach growled informing him of the time at hand.
He found her talking with her friends at the table she was at earlier. Lindoro with held his laughter at seeing the Squib with a coral necklace. The coral rocks were as large as the Knight's own fist. He just smiled as the four saw him approach. The initiates bowed in greeting as he nodded in return. "Your banners have been the talk I hear. You four did an excellent job." He smiled warmly at them.
"Thank you Knight D'Lockens." The three initiates said almost together. Menaria chuckled.
"We were fixing to go and eat, but Menaria mentioned that you were going to come and get her first." Seriu said as he fingered the small, thin coral bracelet that was around his left wrist. He then eyed Kork and chuckled.
The Squib's blue fur rippled as he laid his ears back slightly against his head. "It isn't funny, Seriu. I like it." Kork lifted his head and looked down his muzzle at Seriu. Even though the other boy was almost taller than the Squib, it didn't faze the blue furred initiate at all.
"Come on, Seriu, let it go. I could say something about your bracelet but I won't." Nania said as she crossed her arms over her chest.
Menaria chuckled some more as she followed her Master outside the double doors. The place was still crowded with people, but the Padawan and initiates had been relieved in order to get some lunch. The three initiates hastened after the girl and Knight.
The rest of the day went by fairly well as the Padawan and initiates continued to help out at the celebration that lasted until evening meal.
Lindoro was counting the hours as they passed, feeling almost childish. His Master was returning tomorrow! As he was lying in bed that evening, he chuckled once more as he tried to relax enough to fall asleep. 'Come on! You have to sleep!' He thought as he drew upon the Force to lull him to sleep and within a few minutes with the Force's help, he was fast asleep.
Menaria could tell that her Master was excited about tomorrow. 'He couldn't sit still during evening meditation!' She giggled as she recalled helping him by concentrating on their bond. He had asked her to send a calming feeling through the bond. It appeared to have worked for around ten minutes later he was able to focus enough to enter a light trance. She had to force herself not to laugh. And that had been hard! Her last thought before succumbing to sleep was that of her excited Master.
Juz in case you are wondering about the song I picked to represent this chapter is for Palpatine and Lindoro.
THANKS so much for sticking with me and reading my story.
(Warning to any Finis fans... my humble apologies for not describing him in detail or having him talk his normal LONG speeches hehehe oh don't get me wrong! I love Finis! And I was soooo heartbroken when Palpy got him kicked out.. but then again Palpy had to come to power some how! hehe)
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Crowded streets are cleared away
One by one
Hollow heroes separate
As they run
You're so cold
Keep your hand in mine
Wise men wonder while strong men die
If you find your family
Don't you cry
In this land of make believe
Dead and dry
You're so cold
But you feel alive
Lay your hand on me
One last time
Show me how we end this all right
Show me how defenseless you really are
Satisfied and empty inside
Well that's alright
Let's give this another try
"So Cold" by Breaking Benjamin
The morning was alive with the hustling of many Padawans and Initiates as they prepared for the seasonal celebration. Banners depicting numerous Mon Calamari historical events were being put up on the walls.
Menaria had gotten up earlier than usual to help her friends out with the banners. They were assigned the duty of placing them throughout the large meeting rooms that had been chosen for hosting the event.
"How many Senators are supposed to be coming?" Kork asked as he held the ladder while Seriu posted another banner upon the high wall. This particular room was 30 feet in height and 60 feet wide with a dome ceiling that allowed sunlight from the outside to shine in. It was well over 200 feet long and numerous tables were pushed up against the far walls to provide room for people to walk around. The tables were beginning to be covered with items from Mon Calamari and other keepsakes that people would be allowed to take with them. Food and drinks were to be placed out a little later prior to the start of the celebration.
"I've heard that at least 100 were going to be able to attend. Of course the Mon Calamari Senator will be here, wouldn't be right if he didn't come!" Nania spoke up as she held up a banner and used the Force to levitate it up to Seriu. The boy reached out and gently took the banner to be positioned beside the other one he had just finished putting in place.
The four had decided to use historical events for the banners. Several had the past wars of the planet while the majority showed negotiation meetings and a few of their ancient ceremonial holidays.
Lindoro spent most of the early morning meditating in the Map Room. The alarm he had set earlier began to beep at 0940. The noise drew him out of the deep trance. He realized it wasn't as relaxing as yesterday's, but it served its purpose. He hated crowds…and the idea that he was going to be in the midst of a lot of people was unsettling. 'Perhaps the Senator will not be in the middle of it all…but then again he is a politician and they all crave crowds.' Sighing, he got up from the floor and headed toward where the celebration was going to be held at. 'I did promise Menaria to see her banners that she help create.' He reminded himself as he walked into the turbolift.
The lift had several other Jedi in it, who were also heading for the celebration. He kept a serene outlook as several attempted to keep a little distance away from him. One, however, did not. And as Lindoro stepped away from those who had stepped away from him, he almost did not see Master Yoda in time. The little Master cleared his throat to get the taller Knight's attention in order to prevent from being stepped on.
"Forgive me, Master." Lindoro said with embarrassment as he bowed.
"Forgiven you are. More aware you should be, Knight D'Lockens." Master Yoda said as he leaned on his gimer stick, eyeing Lindoro.
The Knight could tell that the green Master was not upset as he spotted the twinkling in his large yellow green eyes. "Yes, Master, I should be. I was just thinking."
"Hrmmm. Returning tomorrow Master Banz is. Looking forward to this you are?" Yoda's ears raised slightly in question.
"Yes, Master. It has been too long since I visited with my Master." Lindoro answered as he started out of the turbolift after the shorter Jedi. He kept his pace to a minimal in order to keep in pace with the little Master.
"Yes, long it has been. Training with your Padawan, going well it is?" The tapping of the Master's walking stick was barely heard over the voices of the gathering of people outside large double doors that led in to where the celebration was to be held.
"It is going extremely well, Master. Padawan Darce is a very adept student. She has the knack of picking up on lessons rather quickly. And she amazes me at how wise she can be at times." Lindoro couldn't help but smile while talking about his apprentice. For what he said about Menaria was the truth.
"Good, glad am I that she is proving as such." He said as he walked up to the doors. The crowd had formed an opening for the little Master.
Lindoro trailed behind respectfully, allowing the Master to lead. Once the two had passed, the others formed up behind them.
Numerous Jedi whispered under their breaths about Lindoro, but he blocked their words out as he tried to focus on Menaria. If Master Yoda heard any of it, he did not react as if he had. The Master walked up to the double doors, and gently pushed against them. They opened up to reveal the immensity of the inner room. Master Yoda then proceeded inside heading for the far back.
Tables that were aligned against the side walls had all kinds of items for display, to take, to eat, and to drink.
Lindoro's eyes immediately shot up to view the multiple decorations and banners that varied in colors of reds, browns, and greens. The banners literally covered just about all the space on the walls. 'They did an exceptional job.' His smile widen as he took in the sight. Numerous banners had combat scenes. 'Probably was Kork's idea…' Some others had different vessels that the Mon Cal were responsible for making. 'That had to be Seriu's.' The remaining ones were displays of historical diplomatic moments and others were ceremonial holidays. 'Those were Menaria's and Nania's.'
He looked to see where Master Yoda was heading and saw the little Master walking towards a floating podium at the far back of the room. Lindoro recovered from his shock and followed the little Master. 'I've never seen this room before. Then again there are many rooms I've yet to explore.' His eyes lit up as a smile crossed his lips. 'I vow that before I die I will visit every room in the Temple, well those that are accessible of course!' He chuckled to himself as he thought of Menaria. 'Perhaps she'll want to explore with me.'
Lindoro then looked for his Padawan and found her several tables down from the floating podium. She was readying drinks that were to be tasted.
"Hello Master!" She waved as she offered him a glass to try. "It's one of the Mon Calamarian's famous juices. It's a little spicy, but actually pretty good." Her green eyes sparkled as she watched him take a sip.
Lindoro's eyes lit up as the thick yellowish-brown liquid slid down his throat. His taste buds nearly screamed as he coughed quietly. "You are right about that. It does have a bite…but also a very satisfying after taste. Hrmmm fruity and…" He took another drink. "It has some alcohol in it, doesn't it?" He eyed the near empty glass questioningly.
"Just a little. At least that is what Master Enlij said. He did the batch up." She pointed over at the end of the table where a reddish-brown Mon Cal Jedi was in the process of making more of the drink. His coloring was much darker than Master Delak's.
"Well, be sure not to drink too much then Padawan, or your friends. We don't need the added entertainment from drunken young ones." He chuckled.
"Of course, Master. That's why we have the tables labeled so people will know what exactly is in the food and drinks." She pointed across from them toward a table laden with multiple Mon Cal deserts. Kork waved back at them, smiling largely. "Kork was ecstatic when he found out which table he'd be assisting with." Menaria giggled. "Seriu is over at the weapons down the line and Nania is helping with the botanical table on the other side down from Kork."
Several people came up to the table, so Lindoro decided to leave. "I'll be back later. And do tell your friends that you all did a wonderful job on the banners. Very good indeed." He waved to her as he headed off.
Menaria smiled widely. "Thanks Master! I'll tell them!" She called to him as he joined the bustling of people walking toward the podium. She poured several more glasses for those that had walked up to the table curious about trying the juice.
Lindoro made his way toward the middle of the room and tried to stand off to the side somewhat away from the people. It was difficult, but he managed to find a small opening to step into. At the moment most of the people entering the double doors were fellow Jedi. But he knew that soon enough others would be entering; senators and their aides, dignitaries, and a strew of other types as well would be coming to attend the celebration.
Lindoro did not envy the Jedi who got tasked for security detail. He knew that right at this moment the Jedi tasked would be requesting people to hand over any armaments that they carried. Also they would ensure that people were actually there for the celebration and not to cause trouble. 'Like assassins.' Lindoro thought. 'Where Senators congregated there was bound to be trouble.' He smirked at that and turned back to observe the people visiting each table. Some tables had datasheets and holopics of Mon Calamari, its people, wild life, and plant life.
Lindoro sighed as the place began to fill with even more people. Checking his chrono he saw that it was going to start officially any time now. Several familiar blue clothed and armored guards started filtering in the room. 'The Senators have arrived.' He slowly breathed to ease the tension of his muscles, as he realized they had started to bunch up due to the crowd. A smile returned to his face at the idea of meeting up with the Naboo Senator again. His anxiety left him as soon as he spotted the shorter, older man. The Senator was wearing a grayish robe that was lined with silver and black designs.
"Knight D'Lockens!" Palpatine reached out with both his hands to take the Jedi's right hand in a firm grasp and shaking it warmly. The elder man smiled up at Lindoro. "Looks like a pretty good turn out."
Lindoro's smile equaled the Senator's. "It is good to see you, sir. And yes, the celebration is just about to start though I'm sure more people will be arriving shortly."
"Magnificent job on the banners, if I do say so myself." Palpatine commented as he looked around at the wall decorations. He then turned his head back to the Jedi and before he could say anything further, chimes sounded in the room.
The room slowly got quiet as their attention was drawn toward the back of the room. Numerous Senatorial guards were taking positions near the floating podium. Lindoro smirked as he watched them. 'I always got a kick out of their helmets…always wondered what the crested fringes were for…decoration of course.' Lindoro thought as he searched for the tall regal man that would be following shortly behind the guards.
Within seconds the Galactic Senate's Supreme Chancellor Finis Valorum walked through the smaller door that was slightly behind and to the left of the podium.
The Chancellor smiled at those that greeted him, his light blue robes went well with his shimmering shirt and slacks that ranged from white to pale silver in color depending on how the light reflected off of them. The tall man came to a stop near the podium as he waited for it to lower.
The podium was a dark wood frame that held the Republic's symbol on the front. It was a good two feet in width and four feet in height.
The podium was lowered and the Chancellor walked up on to the short step that was attached to the stand. Once on the step, it began to rise and leveled off around fifteen feet from the ground.
Murmuring had started back up at the arrival of the tall leader and chimes sounded once more to get the people's attention.
Chancellor Valorum cleared his throat quietly and began his speech.
'By the Force I hope it's short.' Lindoro thought as he stood next to the Senator. Chancellor Valorum was known for his lengthy talks. He glanced over at Palpatine and saw that the man's expression was lined with curiosity.
"My fellow Republicans, we gather once more to celebrate our Thanksgiving for another standard year that has passed peacefully. Each year we select one of our friends' heritages in order to recognize their past feats. This year we have selected the Mon Calamarians. Please enjoy yourselves and learn more about our companions as we celebrate this annual event." He raised his arms stretching them out slightly emphasizing the multiple tables aligned against the walls of the room.
Applause erupted afterward as people began to head for the tables to check out their contents.
"Well that was short." Lindoro mumbled before he could stop himself. He mentally reprimanded himself as he bit his lip, he was fixing to apologize to the Senator when the elder man spoke up.
"Yes, quite short and so unlike the Chancellor." He chuckled as he mumbled back to the Knight. They both watched the man walk off the step once the podium lowered back down to the ground. Chancellor Valorum shook hands with the Senator from Mon Calamari and posed for the holopics as they were being taken by the media from several Coruscant news centers.
"I've never liked the media. What about you?" Palpatine smirked as he turned to eye the tall Knight.
Lindoro smiled crookedly back. "We Jedi tend to avoid them at all cost if possible, Senator."
Palpatine chuckled in response. "Do introduce me to your Padawan. Is she here?"
Lindoro nodded. "Yes, she's over at the refreshment area overseeing the drinks. Follow me and I'll show you." He then led Palpatine over to the table where he had seen her last.
Several people greeted Palpatine and the Knight. Lindoro bowed slightly in turn to each one while Palpatine smiled and greeted them back.
Menaria saw her Master and waved at him. She then noticed the shorter man with him once they reached the table. She offered the man a glass full of the juice.
Palpatine took it and smiled at her. "Thank you my dear."
"Padawan, this is Senator Palpatine from Naboo. Senator this is my Padawan, Menaria Darce."
Menaria bowed. "Senator, I am happy to be able to meet you." Which indeed she was for she had hoped to meet the man who had brought relief and some cheer to her Master.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Padawan Darce." He then eyed the drink.
"It has a kick, Senator, but I thought it was pretty good." Lindoro warned the man before he took a drink.
Palpatine took a cautious taste of the juice. "Indeed, it does have a 'kick' so to speak, but a nice one. And it actually has a great flavor." He took another drink, nodding with approval. "I'll have to keep this in mind for future usage." He then turned his attention back to the Padawan. "You and your friends did a great job on the banners. I truly enjoy the themes, an excellent mixture."
Menaria beamed as her face flushed slightly at the compliment. "Thank you, Senator. We thought the combinations would suffice."
"Ahhh how modest you are my dear! You sound almost like your Master." Palpatine chuckled.
Lindoro grinned at that as well.
Palpatine's smile reflected in his eyes, but for a totally different reason. 'She is young and won't prove to be a problem after all. At this age they are so naïve. Good…good…most excellent indeed. She won't be an interference with my plans. She'll be as blind to them as he is. The fool! Little does he know that I can sense his growing doubts. I can not wait until we arrive on Keliar. Then I can see my plan unfold.'
The temptation to chuckle was too much as it escaped his lips. He used the comment earlier to cover it. "What else have you taught your Padawan? Hopefully the enjoyments of the variety of foods from different worlds?" Palpatine patted the Knight's arm teasingly remembering what the Jedi had said before about when he was a Padawan.
Lindoro's eyes widen slightly at the joke and he joined with the Senator's laughter. "Not quite Senator, but who knows there is still time." His dark blue eyes twinkled with mirth as he enjoyed the Senator's presence. For some reason when he was with Palpatine he felt relaxed and his dislike for crowds vanished.
"Master!" Menaria giggled as she gave a glass to another Senator whom had walked up to the table along with his aide. The two were eyeing the Naboo Senator and the Jedi curiously. Their three eye stocks focused first on Palpatine then on Lindoro.
Lindoro bowed a greeting while Palpatine nodded to the Gran Senator as well. The Gran smiled and nodded to both of them and then thanked the Padawan for the drinks. The two tasted the juice and continued on to the next table.
"Well Padawan, guess we should let you continue with your tasking. I'll swing by in a couple hours to get your for mid day meal."
"I'll be here Master." She then bowed to Palpatine once more. "It was nice meeting you, sir."
"It was great meeting you. I do hope we can get to know one another eventually as well." Palpatine smiled warmly at the bowing girl.
As the two walked away to visit the other tables, Palpatine eyed the Knight besides him. "She seems like a bright and cheerful girl. Is she helping you with those issues as well?" The Senator murmured as the weapons table caught his attention. Numerous primitive weapons were displayed. Several looked like a mixture of spears and tritons. Palpatine fingered one that appeared to be made out of a red coral like material.
Lindoro tensed slightly at the question, but relaxed after taking several slow controlled breaths. "Yes, sir. She is and when I'm with her it's almost like I'm a different man." He trailed off as he realized what he was saying and the truth hit him hard.
'She is right for me.' A silly grin found its way on the Knight's face, crinkling his mustache.
Seriu bowed at the Senator and Lindoro's arrival. "Greetings Knight D'Lockens." The initiate smiled widely. It was obvious the boy was having fun being at this display table.
Lindoro nodded back as he saw that Palpatine had walked a few feet further down from him. He smiled at Seriu as he went to catch up with the Senator.
Palpatine felt the change come over the Knight. 'Naïve the girl might be, but it looks like she will prove troublesome to what I have planned. A most challenging quest that I have set myself up for, but one that I look forward to accomplishing.' He smirked as he fingered the coral triton one last time. He then turned and smiled warmly as the Knight walked up besides him. "Well then, I say that is a good sign."
Lindoro focused on the Senator, "Yes sir, it is and you have helped as well. Even though we have talked only a little, it helped tremendously." Lindoro paused as a couple of Aqualishians walked by and greeted the Jedi and Senator, nodding their hair-lined faces. Lindoro had always been amazed at how the species could talk around the two large inwardly-pointing tusks that hung from their mouths. The two greeted the Aqualishians back as they continued walking.
"I do look forward to talking with you again." The light that shined in the Knight's eyes was of hope; the possibility that had been offered.
Palpatine smiled knowingly. "Of course, of course we'll talk again. Like I said yesterday, just let me know when. I do not want to interfere with your Master's return." He paused just for a few seconds to view the next table. It held datasheets and pictures that depicted several of the Mon Calamari's historical wars. As he flipped through the sheets, he spoke up again. "I do hope you will talk with him about what you have talked with me. Well that is what you can, I know you can't give details but you can tell him the results." He then looked up into the taller man's face.
Lindoro's step faltered just a little. Most people would not have noticed, but Palpatine did. The Knight bowed his head causing his long black hair to cover his facial expression. "I will…though I don't look forward to it. Don't get me wrong." His head shot back up as his eyes shimmered anxiously. "I look forward to his return, it has been so long. It's just that I…" His voice drifted off as his throat clinched and he cursed himself at his lack of control in front of the Senator.
Palpatine reached out and laid a comforting hand upon the Knight's shoulder and eyed him warmly. "He will understand as any loving father would." Palpatine said quietly under his breath in order for only Lindoro to hear. "If I was your father…or Master in this matter, I would be honored to call you mine and would also be proud of your achievements that you have done for the Republic. There should be more people like you who truly care for our government."
Lindoro swallowed heavily and nodded. "I hope so Senator, I truly hope that he will understand. And I thank you for saying that." Those last words, though whispered made the Knight's troubled heart soar. 'He's proud of me…and we don't even know each other all that well!' A light returned to his eyes at that thought.
"Come let's talk about something else. We don't need a gloomy Jedi, now do we?" His lighter blue eyes sparkled with humor.
"Of course, Senator." Lindoro smiled widely in return as he enjoyed the moment.
"Finish your drink, this is really good actually." Palpatine motioned toward the half-empty glass in Lindoro's hand as he finished off his own drink. "Nice bite indeed." He chuckled.
The two talked as they walked to the other tables trying the different foods and other drinks. Their conversations ranged from the upcoming mission to some of Lindoro's past missions, though the latter was carefully worded and quietly spoken about.
The next couple of hours seem to go by all too quickly for Lindoro's liking and he felt a twinge of disappointment and longing as Palpatine bid him good day.
"Don't forget to contact me so we can schedule lunch." The Senator smiled as Lindoro bowed at him.
"I will, Senator, good day." Lindoro sighed as he watched the elder man leave through the double doors. 'He is the first non-Jedi that I've come to appreciate. I just wished we had more time, though we will, soon.' At that thought, he smiled and turned to find his Padawan so they could go and eat. Even though he had sampled a variety of foods, his stomach growled informing him of the time at hand.
He found her talking with her friends at the table she was at earlier. Lindoro with held his laughter at seeing the Squib with a coral necklace. The coral rocks were as large as the Knight's own fist. He just smiled as the four saw him approach. The initiates bowed in greeting as he nodded in return. "Your banners have been the talk I hear. You four did an excellent job." He smiled warmly at them.
"Thank you Knight D'Lockens." The three initiates said almost together. Menaria chuckled.
"We were fixing to go and eat, but Menaria mentioned that you were going to come and get her first." Seriu said as he fingered the small, thin coral bracelet that was around his left wrist. He then eyed Kork and chuckled.
The Squib's blue fur rippled as he laid his ears back slightly against his head. "It isn't funny, Seriu. I like it." Kork lifted his head and looked down his muzzle at Seriu. Even though the other boy was almost taller than the Squib, it didn't faze the blue furred initiate at all.
"Come on, Seriu, let it go. I could say something about your bracelet but I won't." Nania said as she crossed her arms over her chest.
Menaria chuckled some more as she followed her Master outside the double doors. The place was still crowded with people, but the Padawan and initiates had been relieved in order to get some lunch. The three initiates hastened after the girl and Knight.
The rest of the day went by fairly well as the Padawan and initiates continued to help out at the celebration that lasted until evening meal.
Lindoro was counting the hours as they passed, feeling almost childish. His Master was returning tomorrow! As he was lying in bed that evening, he chuckled once more as he tried to relax enough to fall asleep. 'Come on! You have to sleep!' He thought as he drew upon the Force to lull him to sleep and within a few minutes with the Force's help, he was fast asleep.
Menaria could tell that her Master was excited about tomorrow. 'He couldn't sit still during evening meditation!' She giggled as she recalled helping him by concentrating on their bond. He had asked her to send a calming feeling through the bond. It appeared to have worked for around ten minutes later he was able to focus enough to enter a light trance. She had to force herself not to laugh. And that had been hard! Her last thought before succumbing to sleep was that of her excited Master.