Thanks to all who are reading and or reviewing. I truly appreciate all the feedback. My apologies for the delay in updating, but real life issues have kept me crazily preoccupied. Well, here's a nice long update. I hope you enjoy as we are getting very close to the end.
Lord High Protector Valiaun: Great pen name. Thanks so much for your kind words. I truly appreciate it.
Mystistar1: Thanks so much. Happy to know you are enjoying!
GreenTeandHoney: Thanks for the double post. I really appreciate it.
Emerald Green Queen: No worries, I completely understand about being busy. I have to admit that I've enjoyed being evil when writing and interupting the Sabe/Obi-Wan romance scenes. However, rest assured, you all will hopefully be satsified at the end. Glad you like the Padme part. I always have seen her as a painter as it seems to fit her tedious nature. Besides, I would think she would need a good outlet from all the politics. Oops about my repeat. That was completely unintential but this little group is definitely looking for trouble. As for Anakin, he had a major revelation about himself. Now we'll see how he will react. Glad you like the Emerald Green reference ;). Thanks so much for reading!
Jedi of the Republic: Thanks so much and as soon as things calm down, I will get out another chapt of JF. Thanks for your patience.
Stanfield Skywalker: Fortunately, Anakin has many people to turn to so don't call him Darth quite yet. Thanks for reading!
Mizra: Maybe, but we'll see how Obi-Wan will approach this. I appreciate you reading!
NothingFeelsGood: Thank you so very much. More plot twists are planned. Thanks for reading!
Lisilgirl: Thanks so much. Can't make any promises but I'll try my best.
MMM73181: Glad to read you've finally hopped aboard. Hope it won't disappoint. Thanks for reading!
Ghostreaper181: All in due time ;). Actually most of your questions will addressed in this update. Enjoy!
Vadergirl2006: Glad to hear that. Thank you very much!
Pokey: Thanks a bunch!
Quillian: You make an interesting point. For the most part, Valkin had been 'along for the ride.' However, now we are starting to see his ambitions growing. All I will say is that he is a major character in the sequel story ;). And yes, we will see how Anakin deals with what happened. Thanks so much for reading!
FortuneZyne: Quite possibly. Thanks for reading!
Lokigirl: Yes, go figure ;). Thanks so much!
Standing alone at the edge of the hangar bay, Padmé looked up into the night sky. Somewhere amongst the stars, her friends were voyaging, hopefully en route to their home. She had never liked feeling helpless. In reality she abhorred it. However, there was nothing she could do. Anakin and Sabé had been gone over a standard week. Her stomach clenched at the thought that they might have been discovered, or worse. Somehow in her heart she knew that they weren't dead, but it didn't make her worry any less. Padmè hid her surprise well when someone cleared their throat.
"Couldn't sleep either, General?"
"Always found it difficult to relax prior to a mission. And you, Your Majesty?"
"I was just thinking about Anakin and Sabé…"
"I'm sure they are fine, Your Highness," she replied with a knowing smile. "Perhaps something urgent came up?"
Padmé quickly nodded and forced a smile. "Perhaps."
Saché, appeared quietly, remaining silent until the Queen turned in her direction. "Has there been any word?"
She shook her head. "I'm sorry, Your Majesty. They still haven't responded to our hails."
Padmé shrugged in defeat. "We've waited long enough. Are the others ready?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"General?"
Ilianya tilted her head slightly. "We shouldn't keep the Overlord waiting. The sooner we finish with this deal, the happier I will be."
Obi-Wan stared out at the raging storms of the water planet of Ison. It was the closet world with a major medical complex and the Chelin people were friendly towards the Republic. Thankfully they had gotten to Siri in time and she was expected to make a full, but slow recovery. Once she returned to the temple, the Jedi healers would begin her extensive rehabilitation. In time, Siri would be able to resume her duties.
Despite her claims of being fine, Sabé was admitted by the facilities' doctors. The force of the stun bolt had resulted in a slight concussion. Much to her chagrin, she had been prescribed two days of bed rest. Obi-Wan was thankful that both she and Siri would be fine. But it was Anakin that he was most worried about.
Since their arrival on Ison, Anakin had been unusually pensive, choosing to spend most of his time onboard the Angel Queen. He would occasionally emerge to visit with Sabé and to check on Siri. The Force whispered for Obi-Wan to be patient—that Anakin would emerge when he was ready. Still, Obi-Wan didn't want his friend to suffer when he knew he could help.
"Master?" Anakin called out sheepishly.
Obi-Wan turned to see him shuffling his feet. "Something troubling you, my friend?"
Anakin shrugged and moved next to him. "I've committed a crime, Master."
"Oh?" He glanced at him concerned.
"I became angry and I used the Force to murder that woman."
"The bounty hunter?" Obi-Wan asked. When Anakin nodded affirmatively, he studied his student's face while sensing the torrent of emotion rising within the boy. He didn't feel the taint of the Darkside hovering about him, just unparalleled guilt. Obi-Wan's eyes trailed down to Anakin's lightsaber. "Have you made any progress in repairing your weapon?"
Anakin appeared stunned before he could answer. "Some, but I still need to do more work."
"How did it get damaged?"
"The bounty hunter blasted it out of my hand."
"Did you think she was going to kill you?" Obi-Wan asked, arching his eyebrow.
Anakin appeared to hesitate. "I believed so, yes."
"And if she had, would she have then hurt Sabé?"
"She said as much," he responded softly.
"Well, there is no court in the Republic that would consider what you did a crime, Anakin," Obi-Wan observed with a half smile.
"But Master…I took a life," Anakin said, his voice quivering.
"True, but it was in the line of protecting Siri and Sabé, yes?" The boy shrugged. Obi-Wan reached over and wrapped his arm around him. "Anakin, sometimes Jedi are forced to take a life. It is never easy and it always remains with us."
Tears fell down Anakin's face as he nestled closer. "I plucked her life away from her like I would tear off a loose thread. How could you ever look at me again?"
He warmly smiled as he moved to grab both of Anakin's shoulders. "You did your duty and while what happened was regrettable, you probably saved all our lives."
"Thank you, Master. I appreciate your understanding."
"It is the truth."
Anakin nodded in thanks and turned to walk away. Before leaving, he paused in the doorway. "Master?"
"Yes?"
He swallowed before continuing. "I wasn't aware that the Force could be channeled in such a manner."
"The Force binds all living things together," Obi-Wan responded automatically. "And with your profound abilities, I imagine that you are capable of many feats, some of which most Jedi are incapable"
Anakin grimaced and crossed his arms snugly. "Master, I never asked for this gift or to be the Chosen One. If means that I can use the Force in such…terrible ways, I'd rather not use it at all."
"What are you saying?" He asked, gently grabbing Anakin's forearm.
Anakin shied away. "This is too big. I don't want it anymore."
Obi-Wan frowned, but said nothing more. The boy had been through much the past few days and he needed time to come to terms with his discovery. The corners of his mouth tugged slightly upward as his thoughts shifted to his own youth. On more than one occasion, he had felt like Anakin did, but in the end he always found his way. Although he did attribute that to having Qui-Gon, as well as the other Jedi to help guide him. Aside from himself, Anakin had no one to speak to about such things. Obi-Wan hoped that his presence would be enough for the boy.
Frustrated by doing nothing but lying in bed, Sabé kicked away her sheets as she rolled onto her side. She had never enjoyed being sick or injured, but she had promised Obi-Wan that she would rest. However, Sabé grinned to herself, she had made no vow about getting some fresh air. Quickly getting up, she changed clothes and darted out of her room and down the corridor.
Before she reached the lifts, Sabé took a detour to where Siri was recovering. She tiptoed inside Siri's room and over to her bedside. Except for a few, brief moments of lucidity, Siri had remained unconscious. Sabé shook her head while wondering why she cared about her. After all, it had been Siri who caused the rift between herself and Obi-Wan.
"Where am I?"
Sabé blinked in disbelief as she leaned over the bed railing. "Try not to move."
"Lady Orllize?" Siri asked, squinting her eyes.
"Yes," she answered with a hopeful smile.
"What happened?"
"Don't you remember anything?"
"I remember searching for someone…then pain."
"Anything after that?"
Siri deeply frowned. "Nothing." She looked thoughtful before asking, "How is it that you're here?"
"I was with Obi-Wan and Anakin when we rescued you."
"Rescued me?" Siri asked, trying to sit up.
"You were on a deep cover assignment."
"I wish I could remember," Siri grunted in frustration.
"It will come back in time, I'm sure." Sabé said, offering her a smile of reassurance.
"Thank you…you didn't have to do this. Especially after what I did…"
Sabé shook her head. "It's all in the past."
Motioning for her to draw closer, Siri leaned forward. "I'm sorry. It wasn't for me to judge what was going on between you and Obi-Wan." She paused momentarily. "He and I have been friends since the crèche…In fact you could almost say we are like siblings and I feel…protective where he's concerned."
"That is very kind of you to say," she responded. "Now, try to rest while I get your physician."
Siri grimaced as she laid her head back down. Meanwhile, Sabé alerted the hospital staff who immediately rushed inside Siri's room. She waited outside, watching while the physicians worked. She was deep in thought that she didn't notice that Obi-Wan was suddenly standing at her side.
"Has something gone wrong?"
"Actually the opposite. Siri spoke."
Obi-Wan shrugged in relief. "Thank the Force."
"Have you spoken to your Masters?"
"They have dispatched a medical vessel which should arrive within two days."
"I suppose then that Anakin and I will need to leave before that?" Sabé remarked with an impish grin.
"I will have enough to explain to the Council as it is," Obi-Wan responded wearily. "Having you both here would…complicate things."
"I would imagine so," Sabé answered with a chuckle.
Obi-Wan laughed and beamed at her. "I promise though, once my task is completed, I will go to Naboo to see you… after all we have unfinished business."
"That we do, Master Jedi." Sabé answered playfully. Before she could say more, her comlink chimed.
"Sabé, it's Anakin."
"Is something wrong?"
"Artoo just received a priority communiqué from the Queen."
She exchanged a worried glance with Obi-Wan. "I'm on my way."
Failure was virtually unknown to him. In his meditations, Darth Tyrannus tried to slice away the agitation that accompanied the missed opportunity as he focused his rage back into his being. Everything had been planned so perfectly. From his discovery of Kenobi's attachment to the capture of Tachi herself, his preparations had been flawless except for anticipating the Chosen One's intervention.
Dooku harbored no desire to turn Skywalker to the Darkside, at least not for the moment. He required a more seasoned Force adept to complete his plans and if Kenobi had joined him, the Chosen One would be easy turned at his convenience. All was not lost though. He had done away with Krayn, who had gained the attention of the Jedi. Yet men such as he were not uncommon in the galaxy. There would always be another, ready to serve Tyrannus' interests for the right price.
A deep chill shook blanketed him as Dooku's eyes snapped open. The flashing red light of the comm panel caught his sight for he knew who it was. Quickly rising onto one knee, Tyranus motioned with his hand to open the channel.
"What is your wish for me, my Master?"
Sidious evilly grinned. "There is a great disturbance in the Force." Dooku nodded for him to continue. "Our enemies have multiplied."
"I don't understand," Tyranus hesitatively replied.
"What do you recall about the stories of the Jedi Exile?"
Dooku winced for memories associated with the Order still brought him terrible grief despite his new association. "She was a powerful student who followed Darth Revan into the Mandalorian wars that nearly destroyed the entire race. Apparently she united with the Darkside and ruled over the Sith Empire for many years before she simply disappeared. There were rumors that she took up with the Danthomir witches to learn the secrets of immortality. But those are only tales Jedi Masters tell their Padawan children before bedtime.
"Oh, it is not a bedtime story, my friend. The Exile is quite real; I can assure you."
Dooku looked upon Sidious' imagine in disbelief. "That is…impossible."
"Trust your feelings, my apprentice," Sidious remarked. "They speak the truth."
"Are you certain that she will side against us, Master?"
"I have foreseen it," the Dark Lord answered knowingly. "However, all is not lost. Her journey to regain her mortality will be her downfall." Sidious paused suddenly. "For the moment, we must be cautious with our actions. I do not want you journeying anywhere near the Chommell Sector. We can ill afford to gain the attention of both the Jedi and the Exile before everything is prepared."
"Of course, Master." Dooku responded automatically. He wondered briefly whether Sidious had been aware of his gambit concerning Kenobi and Tachi. He buried those thoughts deep within himself out of fear that the Sith Master would learn of his treachery.
"In time, my friend, we too shall learn the secret of immortality. And then we shall rule the galaxy forever!"
"As you wish, Lord Sidious."
As the image of the Sith Master disappeared, a sly grin eclipsed Count Dooku's face. Indeed, if the legend was true he would get to the Exile long before Sidious and then he would be invincible. Neither his Master nor the Jedi would then dare to oppose his will for the galaxy.
While the Angel Queen glided gently alongside the Royal Cruiser, a small, cylindrical docking ring extracted to join the two ships together. Anakin and Sabé waited patiently before the airlock door opened. They were greeted by the smiles of their friends, as well as a deep sigh of relief from their anxious Queen.
"My wayward friends have finally returned!" Padmé declared.
Anakin and Sabé bowed respectfully before wrapping her in a crushing hug. "It is good to be back," Anakin said as he withdrew from her.
"And not too soon," Sabé chimed in. "Seems like much has happened since we left."
Padmé smiled. "Quite a bit actually. We should continue this in the conference room."
As the Queen departed followed by her handmaidens, Anakin remained behind. He looked about the cabin curiously, feeling an unfamiliar presence nearby. Unclipping his repaired lightsaber, he submerged his consciousness into the Force and followed it down to the ship's lower crew decks. Ordinarily those cabins remained unoccupied unless dignitaries occupied the handmaidens' typical quarters.
Gritting his teeth, he rounded the last corridor, but surprise caused him to hesitate. In the empty room a young woman sat crossed legged on the floor. Her hair was as red as fire and her alabaster skin appeared to glow in the darkness. The Force seemed to swirl through her and all about her with shades of grey dimming her inner light. Though Anakin could not sense any darkness surrounding the strange woman, a well of emptiness appeared to reside within her center.
"Are you just going to stand there, Chosen One?" She asked with her eyes closed. "Or are you going to attack me?"
The pain and guilt over the bounty hunter's death caused Anakin's resolve to falter. The stranger opened her eyes and rose up like vapor. In her hand she held a silver vibroblade. To his astonishment, the Force did not echo any warning of her impending assault. Like a coiled serpent the woman lunged at Anakin and he only had time enough to block her strike before she decapitate him. Struggling to straighten up, Anakin attempted to counter-attack, but his opponent moved like a blurred haze around him, rapidly assaulting his decaying defenses.
Reaching deep into the Force, Anakin directed a wall of energy at the woman. The force of the blow reeled her into the rear wall. She returned quickly to her feet, never removing her gaze at him. About to push her down with the Force, Anakin's lightsaber suddenly flew out of his hand. Before he could react, his body lurched up into the air. He turned his eyes down to see the woman's grin increase while she walked placidly towards him. Dumbfounded, Anakin watched her while she seemed to be considering something.
"Shall I kill you now or are you willing to embrace your destiny?"
Shocked, Anakin muttered, "How did you know…"
"It is a simple question, Chosen One." She retorted, her expression remaining unchanged. "I will not waste my time with a weakling."
Frustrated, Anakin summoned his remaining strength, focusing the Force at his attacker. As she fell over, he dropped to ground, calling his weapon into his outstretched hand. He was about to attack when she sat up and laughed heartily. "That's much better…and here I thought this was all too much for you."
Curiosity got the better of him and Anakin lowered his lightsaber. "Who are you?"
"I am General Ilianya Tro, recently appointed military advisor to Queen Amidala and the Royal Court."
Anakin studied her briefly, then extinguished his weapon. "You are a Jedi."
"Hardly." Ilianya scoffed. "But I was trained by them for a time."
"Then you are a rogue."
"In a manner of speaking."
"What are you?"
Ilianya clicked her tongue in amusement. "Is that all that Kenobi has taught you? To put things in their proper and neat little category?" Anakin raised and lowered his shoulders dramatically as she continued. "You should know that life rarely is that accommodating. But if it offers you any comfort, I, too was rejected by the Jedi, much like you."
"How do you know so much about me?" Anakin queried in amazement. "I've only said these things to my Master."
"There isn't much I don't know about you, Chosen One." Ilianya responded softly.
"I don't understand."
"You will in time."
"I'm Anakin Skywalker," he announced as he held out his hand.
"I know," Ilianya said as she took it. "It is good to finally make your acquaintance."
Anakin smiled, unsure what to ask or say. The woman barely looked older than Padmé and yet he felt that there was much more to this person than his instincts perceived. Ilianya was unlike anyone he had ever encountered. Normally the Force always whispered some knowledge or truth to him about every individual, but with her it remained silent—almost as if it wasn't present at all.
"You have many questions that will be answered in time. All that I ask for the moment is that you take what I teach to heart for it may save your life." Ilianya turned away to set down her sword on her bunk.
"Are you going to teach me the ways of the Force?"
With her back towards him, Ilianya answered. "That is not for me to decide." She turned and looked at him over her shoulder. "Besides, you already have teacher for those lessons." Spinning around, she continued, "No, I will show you how to become a formidable warrior—one that your people will need in the times ahead." She motioned for Anakin to sit across from her at a small gaming table. A blue hologram appeared.
"Dejarik?'
Ilianya nodded.
"How will that help?"
"To become a great warrior, you must recognize that a single move can either lead to your success or to your downfall."
Anakin tilted his head forward. "I am ready to begin."
The Naboo Royal Cruiser quietly sailed down from the clouds over Xinthos prime, the central planet of the cluster. Ahead was their destination—a large castle built into the living rock of a mountain. Anakin stood quietly next to Padmé while they watched the residence of Valkin Ord grow larger on the viewscreen. He could feel her anxiety increase with each passing moment. Indeed, even the normal brightness of the Force that usually surrounded her seemed dimmer.
"Are you ready for this?" Anakin asked softly.
"It isn't me that will be the focus," Padmé muttered.
"You're worried about Cordé."
"If this arms dealer does indeed have an ulterior motive, she would be the one in his crosshairs."
"Don't worry, Padmé," Anakin comforted while gently placing his hand on her shoulder. "Artoo is directly behind us in my ship. If there is trouble, he can get us out."
She turned and reached for his hand. "You don't know what it means to have you and Sabé with me on this mission."
Anakin felt his heart race at her words. He wanted nothing more than to pull her hand up to his lips—to caress her soft skin. Then he would reassure her by proclaiming that he would do everything in his power to protect her and their friends. But this moment wasn't time for such things and he quickly suppressed those thoughts. Squeezing her hand affectionately, he finally replied, "I couldn't think of anywhere else I'd want to be than to be by your side at an important moment."
Padmé was about to speak when Dormé entered the cockpit. "Your Majesty…My Lord…It's time."
Valkin Ord watched from the landing platform as the silver encased cruiser gently touched down. Through his limited abilities with the Force he sensed several presences aboard, but three in particular shone the brightest. Using the skills that Lord Sidious had taught him, Valkin masked his signature and then reached with his awareness to learn about his visitors. Most of them merely seemed nervous to be here, but a few were well aware not to turn their attention from him.
Valkin smiled invitingly and bowed when the Naboo contingent led by the heavily decorated Queen approached. By his side, Michaelis did the same.
"It is an honor to receive you and your party, Your Highness. I am Valkin Ord, Overlord of the Xinthos colony. Welcome to my home."
Cordé subtly tilted her head in acknowledgement. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lord Ord. I am Amidala, Queen of the Naboo."
Valkin reached over and kissed her hand. "The rumors of your beauty hardly do you justice, Your Majesty."
"You flatter me," Cordé answered. "And we humbly thank you for your gracious invitation."
"It is my pleasure." Valkin stared at the young Queen.
"Allow me to introduce my chief of staff, Padmé Naberrie, who will lead our delegation's negotiations and Sabé Orllize, my head of security."
Valkin repeated the same gesture with both women, but his gaze focused upon Padmé as he felt an unusual tug from the Force. He was intrigued and would have to learn more about this petite handmaiden. Shifting his attention to his assistant, he said, "Michaelis here will show you to your rooms." Turning around to face Cordé, he added, " If you will excuse me, I must see to the preparations for the feast honoring your visit, Your Highness."
Cordé nodded as Valkin took his leave. He smiled to himself as walked away. Indeed, Amidala was more beautiful than he imagined but so were those who followed her. Despite his Masters' objections, he was pleased to have them there and he would learn what he needed to know.
As the entire group followed Michaelis into the castle, Cordé found the view was nothing short of spectacular as evening was setting in. The planet's main star was setting behind the white caps of the vast mountains casting an orange hue across the landscape. The design and décor of Valkin's residence was styled similar to the Royal Family's castle on Alderaan. Even some of the frescos and oil paintings that covered the immense walls had an Alderaanian theme. However, there were other works of art from virtually the entire galaxy.
Aside from the splendor of the alien world, Cordé was pleased that their ruse seemed to have succeeded. Valkin appeared unaware that she was not the Queen and so far the mission was going according to plan. Still, she could not relax until they were secure in her temporary quarters. Padmé immediately came over to help her take off the cumbersome headpiece.
"Seems all is well."
"Apparently too well. Somebody apparently caught the eye of the Overlord." Padmé teased.
Cordé snorted and rolled her eyes. "I just played along. Besides, I thought that any protest would cast suspicions."
"No, no…you did fine." Padmé said with a smile. "It may actually work to our advantage." She then turned to Sabé. "Is the area secure?"
"I detect no listening devices or any breaks in the structures that could serve as a hideaway."
"Do you wish to switch places, Your Highness?" Rabé softly asked.
Padmé shook her head. "I do not think that would be prudent. Lord Ord got too close to Cordé and me so it is possible that he would notice." Turning to Eirtaé she instructed, "Find out where this dinner is being held. Then get Sabé and Versé to accompany you to look over the area."
"Yes, Your Highness." Eirtaé bowed and departed.
"Dormé, ask Anakin and General Tro to go on a sweep of the castle." Padmé ordered. "Request that if they find anything out of the ordinary to report to me immediately."
She bowed as she left the room. Padmé then looked to the others, "The rest of us will help Cordé get ready for this evening. If our host decides he wants to conduct the negotiations informally, I want to be prepared."
Anakin and Ilianya quietly walked through the cavernous hallways of the Ord castle. Although had concerned himself with finding anything through the Force that seemed out of place, his companion appeared lost in thought.
"Is something wrong, General?"
Ilianya blinked several times. "No, I was just…remembering something."
Anakin nodded and they continued to walk. "Do you sense anything?"
"It seems the Overlord has had some schooling in the dark arts," Ilianya responded evenly. "His shielding is actually quite good."
Concerned, Anakin asked, "Should we alert the others?"
"Patience, dear boy," Ilianya said with a half grin. "We mustn't reveal our hand too soon."
Anakin huffed in agitation as he continued to probe. "I do not like just waiting for something to happen."
"Are you that anxious to swipe your lightsaber wildly about?"
He stopped in place to give her an angered glance. "That is not what I meant."
Apparently becoming interested in a large, hermetically sealed portal, Ilianya turned away to investigate. With her back to Anakin, she said, "In combat, you should never want anything to happen. Don't even expect it to happen. Allow it to occur as it will, without prejudice or anticipation." She then turned to look at him over her shoulder. "Then you will be truly ready for what does happen, which is then free of expectation."
"I think I understand," Anakin responded with his crooked smile. "Have you found something?"
"I think I have," Ilianya answered. "However, I can't get any kind of readout from the access module. If only I had brought Teethree…"
"May I help you with something?" Both Ilianya and Anakin turned to see Michaelis standing behind them.
"We were curious what was in this room," Anakin admitted.
The older man sneered as he darted his eyes between them. "That is the Overlord's private work area where he develops new weapon systems. He is rather…particular to whom he allows access."
Ilianya smiled appreciatively at him. "Thank you, sir. You've satiated our curiosity." She motioned for Anakin to follow her away from the door. "Whatever is in there, it scares him," she whispered.
"For a moment, I felt something cold hovering over that place."
"This mission is getting stranger by the minute."
Anakin frown grew. "What does all of this mean?"
"I don't know," Ilianya reluctantly admitted. "However, I am almost certain that the Sith have been here and perhaps Valkin is in league with them."
"The Sith," Anakin muttered.
"Yes, there is something about this place that interests them…but what…I don't know yet." She looked intently at Anakin. "We need to finish this deal and leave. I fear our presence may bring unwanted attention."
After helping Cordé change into her formal garments, Padmé hurried to her own room to change. As she crossed the corridor, she paused when she glimpsed Valkin sitting on the ledge near a large window.
"My Lord," she addressed, bowing in respect.
Valkin dismissively waved his hand. "There is no need for such formality. Please call me Valkin."
Padmé tilted her head and smiled. "Is it a Naboo custom for the Queen's lieutenant to conduct formal negotiations?"
She was uncertain why, but a sudden feeling urged her lie. "Yes. The Queen traditionally appoints a chief aide whom she shares her wishes with and speaks in her stead. It has been done on our world for ages."
"I see," Valkin muttered. "You do seem somewhat young for such a position of power."
Padmé maintained her neutral air. "I have worked hard all my life this position." Lifting her chin in defiance, she added, "But, if you are concerned about my abilities…"
Raising his hand, Valkin interrupted. "I meant no disrespect, Milady. I was simply expressing my amazement over such an accomplishment at so young an age."
"I thank you, sir." Padmé replied, but involuntarily shuddered when she felt his eyes trace down her body. "Is there anything else that I could be of help with?"
"Actually…"Valkin cleared his throat. "I have no inclination to deviate from my original offer. I would like…I respectfully request if we could fast track through the formalities so the rest of the Queen's visit can be more…social in nature."
Padmé was thankful that they would get what they came for. However, she did not like the insinuation that he wished for them to stay for a prolonged period. She would need to think quickly. "I will pass your wishes to the Queen. You will have your answer at dinner."
He half bowed. "Then Milady, I shall take my leave."
"Thank you for your generosity, Lord Ord. Our people will be most appreciative."
"I hope this will be the beginning of a long standing interaction between our two worlds."
"We shall see," Padmé responded with an sly grin.
The Ord castle's dining hall was a grand room with a single, rectangular table that stretched nearly the entire length. Cordé, masquerading as the Queen, sat at the head of the table with Valkin at her right side. After the meal was finished Valkin turned to her.
"Did your handmaiden relay my request, Your Majesty?"
"I'm delighted by your kind offer and we accept."
"Excellent." Valkin snapped his fingers and a droid carrying several crates emerged. "The datapads inside contain the technical information needed to build the prototype droid factories. These droids, while controlled by a central location, have secondary programming in case it is destroyed. This will enable them to independently carry out their final orders."
Trying to suppress a grin, Cordé nodded in acceptance. Valkin smugly smiled as he watched her. "These droids will serve you well."
With a knot in her stomach, Cordé forced a smile. "We are most pleased with this technology and we are grateful for your kindness." She nodded at Anakin who in turn signaled the ship to offload the kelvacyte.
Studying the Queen and her attendants for a moment, Valkin remarked, "I don't know how you obtained the mineral, but I must say that I agree with your reasons to build a military."
We were fortunate after the occupation to have many generous donors around the Republic help us restore our economy," Padmé answered proudly.
"Then you do not possess a mine or repository?"
Padmé turned to Cordé who answered. "No, Lord Ord. What we offered is the total quantity that we were given as a gift."
Valkin bobbed his head as if swayed by her excuse. The whispers in the Force suggested to him that there was more to this. Moments later, several of the Queen's personal guard entered the room with the cartons containing the mineral.
Immediately, Valkin jumped out of his seat to examine them. Utterly beside himself in pure delight, as he would be able to resume tests on his cannon design without interruption, he wryly grinned at the group. "This concludes our business. Thank you for coming. It has been…illuminating."
He then respectfully bowed to them and dipped his head towards Michaelis. "If you gentle people will follow me, I will escort you back to your ship."
Dumbfounded by his abruptness, Cordé and the others stood up and left the room. Anakin and Padmé exchanged confused glances as they walked out in silence. He was about to speak when Ilianya came up from behind, placing her hand on his shoulder.
/Don't say anything, Chosen One. We must leave now/
/What's wrong/
/Lord Ord is about to get another visitor…One we don't want to be present for./
/It's the Sith, isn't it/
Valkin headed up the spiral staircase of the tallest turret. He squint his eyes when he walked into the darkness, but he already knew that he wasn't alone.
"My Lord."
"Did you complete your business with the Naboo, Valkin?"
"Yes, my Lord." He answered nervously. "I am almost certain that they possess a cache of kelvacyte."
"That may be useful if your weapon ever becomes operational."
Valkin stiffened, angered by the insinuation. "The cannon will work as promised.'
Emerging from the shadows, Count Dooku folded his arms. "It had better, Ord. Lord Sidious is intolerant of failure."
"I will not fail, my Master."
TBC-Thoughts, comments and suggestions are still very welcomed!
