-Chapter 86: Trial of the Century-
Location: Coruscant
"True justice is easily ignored for the sake of personal ventures."
Word spread quickly as soon as the report reached Coruscant; The Wraith had been subdued and captured.
The news engulfed Republic Military Command like wildfire, the excitement incredibly tangible and contagious. For the first time ever, the Republic Grand Army believed it was on the verge of a grand victory over the Separatists. Taking down and imprisoning their super-soldier would be a feat that might just tip the war in their favor. Such information was still withheld from the press and news networks, in order to officially confirm the Wraith's capture without raising a false sense of hope among the population.
On Stassia, the Republic made immediate preparations to leave. While Wraith had been placed in a cell aboard the Jedi's Acclamator cruiser, safely locked behind ray shields, a containment field and magnetic binders, his gear and equipment had been placed in a crate that would be moved to Coruscant later. It remained with the Clones on the ground, a mix of 212th and 501st who had been tasked with seeking out Wraith's shuttle and any other Separatist units who might've possibly come with him.
The air was thick with giddy excitement, many Clones taking a quick moment to celebrate this impending victory with their brothers. They took their time with the ground work, knowing Wraith wouldn't be going anywhere any time soon, and assumed they had deserved something of a rest after beating the now-legendary super-soldier.
But there was one who was far from excited.
From the opposite side of the red ray shield, Ahsoka looked upon Wraith, his hands over his head a and forced to his knees within the confines of his cell. To her, the position looked painful, even if the trip back to Coruscant was going to be short. Not to mention Wraith hadn't received any medical attention after his battle with Corsair and the EM rifle attack, so he was likely in pain even now.
Ahsoka shook her head sadly, none of this sitting well with her. She had seen the Republic imprison people on ships before, like Cad Bane and Nuvo Vindi, they were given seats and far roomier conditions. Why was Wraith treated so unfairly? This wasn't even because she loved him, this was a simple question of equality and decency! Growing increasingly convinced that Anakin's personal vendetta was clouding his sense of logical due course, Ahsoka's distaste for her master's actions gradually increased. The worst part was, she knew he would not heed her protests, Anakin being very set in his ways.
Her mental debate completed, Ahsoka waved her hand over the controls to deactivate the shield and entered the cell, approaching the currently-helpless Wraith. With a quiet groan, the super-soldier looked up, the light reflecting off the many scratches and dents as well as the torn mouthguard components of his helmet, and offered a soft smile.
"Hi there." He greeted.
"Hey," she replied with a sad smile of her own, her gaze lingering on the dried blood around his mouth for a moment longer, "how're you feeling?" She wondered as she knelt before him.
"Sore. Pretty sure I have a record number of bone-bruises." Wraith responded, grunting a little as a brief pain flashed through him in time with his movements. "I'm actually pretty grateful I'm in a static position like this. Just wish it was a bed." He added.
"So do I." Ahsoka emphasized. "Anakin's... I don't even want to talk about him right now." She muttered with a sigh. Wraith could tell there was a point of contention at work here, and it likely had something to do with her actions prior to his capture. "You really should be treated better than this. We've had other prisoners in here and they were never strung up like this." He could hear the pained tone in her voice and the way she trailed her fingers across his exposed skin indicated to him a sense of longing that he could see in her eyes. "And I doubt Coruscant will be much better." She mused with a disheartened exhale. Her fingers continued to trail, running across his mouth. He managed to briefly kiss her fingertips and leaned into her touch.
"On the bright side, I look forward to your regular prison visits." He remarked, showcasing his characteristic humour despite the present circumstances. Ahsoka couldn't help but chuckle.
"You're awfully calm about all this." She observed, having anticipated him to be either scared or upset by what was happening.
"Well, panicking wouldn't do me much good." Wraith replied. As he did, he grimaced for a moment as another pain briefly shot through him. "Think you could get me some painkillers?" He wondered.
"Shouldn't be a problem. You're entitled to that much decency." Ahsoka agreed. Wraith smiled in appreciation and Ahsoka leaned in for a quick kiss, but was halted when she heard voices back in the corridor.
"General! The shield is down!" They were Clones and it sounded like either Obi-Wan or Anakin was with them. With a sigh, Ahsoka gave Wraith a split-second kiss, much shorter than she intended, before turning and heading for the cell entrance where she emerged to find Anakin and a pair of 212th Clones approaching at a brisk rate, only to slow when they saw her. "Is everything alright, Commander Tano?" One of the Clones asked.
"Yeah. It's fine." Ahsoka replied, avoiding Anakin's stare. Her master set about placing the guards with simple orders, reactivating the shield as he did.
"Constant watch. If he so much as coughs we should know about it." He instructed. The Clones saluted and took up positions on either side of the cell entrance, Ahsoka watching with a sense of distaste. This was how they guarded other prisoners, but she still didn't like seeing Wraith in such a position on the other side.
The Togruta realized Anakin was staring at her and offered him a quick glance before trying to move on,
"I'm going to the med bay-"
"Ahsoka." The way Anakin said her name was calm, almost emotionless. But the Padawan recognized the subtle sense of agitation in his tone, having heard it many times before. He beckoned her to follow him and, begrudgingly, Ahsoka trailed after her master towards a nearby room outside of the cell block, where he sealed the door behind her. "We need to talk." Anakin gravely stated.
"What about?" Ahsoka wondered, sounding annoyed.
"You." Anakin pointedly replied. "And hatever's going on between you and Wraith. I'm not gonna lie, Ahsoka, it's worrying."
"Master, I'm just trying to help him." Ahsoka reiterated.
"I get that you have a desire to help, and that's good. That's really noble, Ahsoka. But The Wraith is not some charity case you can fix. He's a deadly war criminal. And I'm not the only one to think so." Anakin responded, trying to be calm despite the fear deep within him. He wanted to keep Ahsoka safe from a threat he and others could plainly see, but one she seemed bind to.
Ahsoka knew his point and position well, but was never fond of it. To her it seemed wrong and she rolled her eyes as he mentioned it. She'd heard it before... many times, in fact. "Based on what I've seen, I'm afraid that your insistence when it comes to this has allowed you to form an attachment to him." Anakin then stated. That caught Ahsoka off guard. She hadn't even considered that notion before, but realized that her sense of care concerning Wraith was a foundational component of an attachment. She shared a similar one for Anakin himself.
"That's... not... I..." She struggled for an answer. Her hesitation gave Anakin all the evidence he needed to affirm his position that Ahsoka had let this case get to her too much and that she was in desperate need of a reset.
The thing was, Ahsoka did have an attachment to Wraith. But one bigger and more potent than Anakin could've guessed...
"You know what the Jedi Code says about attachments, Padawan." Anakin continued.
"I just want to help him and that's what I'm trying to do." Ahsoka finally responded. "That's what Jedi are supposed to do, help people."
"Yes and we do, but we don't help criminals. I think that's your feelings talking." Anakin replied. "And you know what the Code says about-"
"Yeah yeah yeah." Ahsoka cut him off with a dismissive wave of her hand.
"I'm serious Ahsoka! Don't get snippy with me now." Anakin stated, suddenly growing firm.
"I know full-well what the Code says and I also know that you break it more often than I do!" Ahsoka retorted, her emotions suddenly rising as she attempted to defend herself.
"Your emotions are leading you down a dangerous path," Anakin shot back, pointing a finger at her. "You need to get your feelings under control, Padawan."
"Why? You don't care, you're so hellbent on destroying Wraith!" Ahsoka retorted, crossing her arms and turning away.
"I do care! I'm trying to help you!" Anakin responded.
"More like 'hinder'." Ahsoka grumbled.
"I'm sorry, are you referring to the absolute favors I'm doing you? I'm trying to help you become a better Jedi, Ahsoka!" Anakin exclaimed.
"And why should I listen to you?!"
"Because I'm your Master!"
"WELL I NEVER ASKED TO BE YOUR APPRENTICE!" Ahsoka screamed, finally bringing her swelling anger fully against him. Momentarily stunned by her outburst, Anakin could both see and sense Ahsoka's sudden change in demeanor. Her signature had grown dark, very dark, frighteningly quick. There was plenty of negativity coursing through her, much of it derived from her boiling emotions.
Brushing off her comment, Anakin knew there was a very real issue to be dealt with.
"I sense your anger, and a lot of darkness in you right now." He slowly stated. "You're not acting like a Jedi." Ahsoka continued to glare at him, a livid fury in her gaze. Her crystal blue eyes burned like the fire of a churning sea. Still feeling the fiery passions coursing through her, she spat,
"Says the one who rarely acts like a Jedi." Anakin did not respond, fixing Ahsoka with a hard and steady gaze full of concern. The way she was acting wasn't like her, almost as if she'd been hijacked by her emotions and the apprentice he knew wasn't the Ahsoka he was speaking with. "Until you've got yourself figured out, don't bother telling me what to do!" With that, Ahsoka stormed out in a huff, Anakin watching her go. He didn't try to stop her, seeing further pressure would only build her resistance. But something had to be done. Her outburst was drawn from negativity, he could sense it.
It was almost Sith-like...
Now in a borderline livid state, Ahsoka stomped down the hallway, her brow almost permenantly creased as she glared down that the floor. Stupid Anakin. Do as I say, not as I do... What a load of sithspit. She thought, boiling over on the inside. The fact that he had the gall to boss her around while living as he sought fit really irked the Togruta, pushing her well past the point of being reasoned with and into the most stubborn and aggravated state she'd ever been in. Her mood had been totally consumed by her emotions and woah to anyone that tried talking to her now-
"Oy! Girlie!"
Cue Corsair. Right on time.
Ahsoka rolled her eyes with a huff as she spotted Corsair coming down an adjacent hall.
"Not now, sleemo." She grumbled.
"Someone's grumpy. Yor as souah as Tools." The Titan observed with a smirk.
"Look, just leave me alone!" Ahsoka exclaimed, trying to move past him. But Corsair barred her way.
"Why should I?" He wondered.
"Because you don't care!" She retorted. Corsair chuckled.
"I've been 'round tha block a few times, girlie. Trust me, I've known what it's like ta care."
"As if. You're just a mercenary!" Ahsoka bit back. "You don't care about anything except credits, you'd probably sell your own family if it suited you! That's how much you don't! Care!" Ahsoka didn't even have time to blink before she felt a strong slap across her face and was suddenly slammed and pinned against the nearest wall chest-first, one arm twisted behind her back with its owner's weight keeping her pinned with the other tightly gripping her rear lekku. It was all so sudden Ahsoka had no time to react to it, just the pain that came afterwards. Corsair squeezed her headtail quite harshly, causing Ahsoka to cry out and lean her head back in an effort to lessen it. Through gritted teeth and with a low voice, the mercenary spoke,
"Before I start, don't you ever bring my family up again and don't ever presume to know how much I care. Understood?" Corsair growled. He spoke in a threatening tone, and the sudden loss of his accent caused Ahsoka to freeze, frightened by whatever had come over him. She lightly nodded out of pure terror, eyes wide with fright. "Believe it or not, I have a pretty good idea what you're going through right now. I'm just going to tell you that whatever you're feeling right now, keep a kriffing lid on it whenever you're out in public or around other Jedi, your master included." Corsair told her, maintaining a consistent, painful pressure where he was gripping her. Ahsoka felt like her arm might snap and feared his other hand might leave behind a horrible lekku bruise. Shaak had told her about them, how they lingered like a throbbing pain for days on end and it sounded agonizing. All she could do was listen to him and hope this would end soon. "Let it out when you're away from everyone else. Get a grip and go talk to someone you trust, even though you Jedi don't seem to be allowed that luxury. Though something tells me that you've already got that covered. Do you understand?" Ahsoka nodded to the best of her ability. "Good." With that, Corsair released her. Ahsoka released a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding and quickly shook out her arm while feeling up her rear headtail. Such a sensitive sensory organ would surely feel the lingering effects for a while. "Now then, where's yor mastah at? Kenobi said 'e's on board." Corsair asked, his voice still low despite slipping back into the familiar accent.
"H-He might still be in the cell block." The Togruta answered, now quite sober, far from angry, but also very shaken from his sudden actions. Corsair simply tilted his head in acknowledgment before going on his way, leaving Ahsoka to watch him go, stunned by what had just occurred.
Communicating with Anakin and Thrawn, Corsair sealed the deal for the Titans to wrap up their contract. With the go ahead to Palpatine on approval from both, Corsair returned to Stolen Horizon to wait for the incoming transmission that would be one of their biggest scores ever. The Acclamator rose up and left, leaving the mercenary band behind. Things were going well and the Titans were sure that they'd be in for a huge payday...
The Acclamator streaked through hyperspace, destined for Coruscant. Since Stassia was virtually Coruscant's neighbour, the trip would not be a long one. But it was just enough time to give Anakin the space he needed to reflect, regroup and, most importantly, seek the counsel of his friend.
Pulling Obi-Wan aside, the two Jedi met in Kenobi's private quarters as Anakin expressed his worries.
"I'm... concerned about Ahsoka." He was saying, "She's got a lot of negativity in her. Like a lot of it."
"I know. I sensed it back on Stassia and had to wonder." Obi-Wan replied. He had been hoping Anakin might be able to diffuse anything, but the tone in his friend's voice dictated otherwise. "I had hoped you might be able to dissuade such energies."
"Believe me, I tried to. I pulled her aside and tried to talk to her about it," Anakin continued, "and we... got into an argument and she... she screamed at me." Obi-Wan raised an eyebrow.
"That's not like her." He mused, concern in his voice.
"It gets worse. She said she 'never asked to be my apprentice'." Anakin relayed. That took Obi-Wan by surprise.
"That's really not like her. Something is wrong."
"You're telling me." Anakin agreed. "I think she's unintentionally developed an emotional attachment to him."
"But one that would garner such a strong reaction?" Obi-Wan wondered.
"I don't get it either. There's something going on here that we need to know more about." Anakin responded. "And since this is... a little stressful," he admitted, "I figured I'd ask you for help."
"You're worried." Obi-Wan stated, sensing the fear his friend felt regarding this situation.
"Well... yeah. This is all so sudden and I... just don't know what to do."
"It's alright, my friend. We'll take this before the council and help you through this." Obi-Wan promised with a hand on Anakin's shoulder. "I'm sure Ahsoka just needs a little correction. A little time and proper discipline should set her right in no time."
"I hope so. She seemed so... certain about what she was saying. But I know that's not like her, it's like I'm talking to someone else." Anakin added, the depth of his worries evident in his voice alone.
"We'll sort this all out Anakin, don't worry." Obi-Wan assured him. The knight felt a little better having confided his worries and felt a small portion of his confidence be renewed. Knowing Obi-Wan was in his corner and ready to help him had lifted a burden off his shoulders, even though the situation still needed to be dealt with.
Entering the cellblock with a cup in hand, Ahsoka made for the single cell guarded by the twin Clone troopers. As she did, one of them moved to block her path.
"Sorry Commander. General Skywalker's ordered for no one to approach The Wraith." He stated. Ahsoka sighed and rolled her eyes, of course Anakin had commanded that. Not in the mood to put up with her master's ridiculously overzealous measures, but also knowing these Clones were bound to said duties, she raised her free hand and slowly waved it.
"You will let me through." She calmly stated. The Clone seemed to pause, as did the one behind him, their minds slowly resetting as the Force went to work.
"We... will let you through." The trooper slowly repeated.
"You will not report anything to General Skywalker." Ahsoka continued.
"We will not report anything to General Skywalker." The Clone obediently replied. Satisfied her mind trick had worked, Ahsoka continued on towards the cell, disabling the ray shield to enter.
"This never happened." She said in conclusion.
"This never happened." The Clone repeated, returning to his position against the wall. Sealing the shield behind her, Ahsoka approached a smirking Wraith.
"Clever." He mused, having heard the interaction.
"It comes in handy some times." Ahsoka agreed while dropping down. "Here, take this. Don't chew it." She said, offering him a single pill. Seeing as his hands were tied, Wraith simply opened his mouth and allowed Ahsoka to pop it in so he could swallow it. She then offered him the cup of water, which came with a little extra.
"Aw, a straw." He realized with a smile. "You're so considerate." He praised, Ahsoka smiled in return as she let him drink, parching his dry mouth. He thanked her as his lips released the straw, Ahsoka setting it down before she looked him over.
"How are you holding up?"
"Pretty sure my wounds are slowly healing. Emphasis on slowly." He answered. "I doubt I could move if I wanted to. Not that having my arms twisted in this position helps." Ahsoka's expression fell, her sorrow evident in her eyes alone. Wraith couldn't help but feel something special, considering how much Ahsoka cared about him.
"This is wrong." She muttered, running her hands along the smooth surface of his binders before trailing along the bruised skin of his forearm. "This is so wrong... I have half a mind to free you right now." She whispered in a determined voice.
"No, Ahsoka, you can't." Wraith quickly responded, denying her.
"Why not?"
"Because it's better for you if I stay imprisoned."
"What are you talking about?"
"I will not let you sacrifice your position and your passion for my sake." Wraith emphatically told her. "You are a Jedi, you help people. That's what you want to be. If you help me escape, the Jedi and the Republic will regard you as a traitor. You should not have to sacrifice your dreams for my sake." Ahsoka paused, dwelling on his words for a moment.
"Could I do some good... as a Separatist?" She wondered aloud, the thought suddenly appearing.
"No." Wraith quietly but firmly responded. "Don't even think about switching sides. You are who you are and you should not have to change for anything. If you have to change for me then our relationship is a shallow one." His words killed the thought entirely, and Ahsoka readily clung to them. "I love you for who you are and I want you to stay that way. I want you to be the determined, headstrong, compassionate, faithful young woman that you are." Wraith told her. Slowly nodding, Ahsoka accepted what Wraith had to say and realized that she could try to make a difference in her current state.
"You're right. Maybe I can use this as an opportunity to show the Jedi what's wrong, show them were we may have gone wrong in their pursuit to defeat you." She suggested. Wraith smiled again.
"Atta girl." He complimented. Ahsoka smiled back and kissed him, letting her touch linger far longer this time as Wraith reciprocated.
"I still wish I could take these bindings off you." She added.
"I'm pretty sure Skywalker rigged them with an alarm." Wraith stated.
"Why does that not surprise me?" Ahsoka wondered with a sigh.
"At least this way you can put your hands all over me and I won't fight back." Wraith joked. Ahsoka laughed as her hands found the skin of his exposed jaw.
"How desperate do you think I am?" She teasingly asked.
"Keep touching me and we'll find out." Wraith remarked with a smirk. Ahsoka could not resist another chuckle and kissed him again, her arms snaking around his static body as she pulled herself close to him. They separated for a moment, Ahsoka's gaze lingering on his optics and deeply wishing she could stare into his lovely amber eyes. Someway, somehow, she was certain Anakin might notice and dared not let this precious moment be uncovered. "I'll come visit you every day. I will be there for you. I promise!" She vowed, hugging him tightly. Wraith longed to return the gesture but was content knowing his sweetheart could empathize.
"Thank you, my love." Was all he could say.
Later, on Coruscant...
The Acclamator emerged from hyperspace and was immediately directed by Coruscant control to a very specific hangar where planetary security had been prepped for the arrival of The Wraith. The mighty warship touched down and its bay doors opened to reveal a waiting diplomatic party. Consisting primarily of Chancellor Palpatine and the Coruscant Guard, many members of the Jedi Council were present as well, including the likes of Masters Yoda and Windu, Ki-Adi Mundi, Plo Koon and Shaak Ti. Anakin and Obi-Wan met them first, descending the ramp with a victorious aura about them.
"Quite the welcoming committee." Anakin joked.
"I'm quite certain they're not here to see us." Obi-Wan ribbed in response. The Jedi set foot on the ground and approached the party, Palpatine congratulating them as he stood alongside the red-painted Coruscant Guard Clones.
"Master Kenobi, Master Skywalker, you have my deepest thanks and the Republic's eternal gratitude for your actions on Stassia." He told them.
"It was not all us, Chancellor," Anakin truthfully replied, "we just gave the orders. It was our men who ultimately felled The Wraith."
"And those men will be given the highest honours possible," Palpatine declared, "as soon as all matters have been fully dealt with. You have The Wraith in your custody, yes?"
"We just finished prepping him for transport, as per your request." Obi-Wan replied. "We'll be bringing him out any minute now." Almost as soon as he said the words, two 501st and two 212th Clones escorted a single hover palette down the ramp. On it, held in place by the containment on his knees, was Wraith, bound and captured. A true sight to behold, the Jedi, Chancellor and Clones took a moment to simply savior the sight of one of their greatest enemies imprisoned and under their control. Once one the ground, control was handed over to the Coruscant Guard while Palpatine approached the downed Wraith.
"I cannot express how much the Republic has longed for this day." He mused. Wraith seemed to respond, looking up up through unpowered optics. They appeared dark red, almost black, as if to say he was totally beaten. Beneath his helmet, he glared daggers at his archenemy, the chieftain of galactic corruption. But with Palpatine's mind wipe having proven very effective, Wraith had completely forgotten that the Supreme Chancellor was none other than Darth Sidious himself and simply regarded him as the leader of the Republic.
"You are fortunate I lack the strength to break these chains and kill you all where you stand." He growled, his form beaten but his fight clearly unquenched.
"Rest assured, Wraith, your days of killing are at a definitive end." Palpatine promised, turning to Commander Fox. "Take him to the transport and straight to the judicial centre."
"Right away sir." The Clone responded, gesturing for his unit to move out as well. Anakin and Obi-Wan caught the words 'judicial centre' and had to wonder.
"Chancellor, shouldn't Wraith be going to the prison?" Obi-Wan inquired.
"He will, eventually. But first he is going to trial." Palpatine explained.
"Trial?" Anakin repeated, confused by this new order of events.
"In the wake of capturing this war criminal, I see no point in waiting around to conduct any more invesitgative means that will only solidify his nature as an enemy of the Republic. Therefore, while he is in our grasp, he ought to be tried and dealt with immediately." The Chancellor elaborated as he turned to leave with Fox.
"Well... alright then." Anakin mused in agreement as Palpatine left. But as soon as the Chancellor was out of earshot, he leaned over to Obi-Wan, "Guess things have been happening before we got here." He noted with arms crossed.
"So it would seem." Obi-Wan nodded. "Master Windu, care to fill us in on what's happened?" He asked his fellow master.
"The Chancellor has decided that Wraith ought to receive his trial now, so as to not slow things down when the war ends." Mace replied, filling them in. "That way, he can be locked away and never be bothered with again."
"So... this is happening now?" Obi-Wan clarified.
"Yes. And the Chancellor has requested we all be in attendance." Mace affirmed. "You can give us a full account afterwards." The Jedi turned to go, but Anakin and Obi-Wan trailed behind as the knight had one final comment.
"Maybe we should leave Ahsoka behind for this one." He suggested.
"Maybe." Obi-Wan agreed. "I question if it is wise to even see how she'll take to it all."
The courtroom was large enough for the hover palette to be escorted forward with two Clones on either side before the large stand where Palpatine sat at the head, with Senator Padme Amidala representing the accusing Galactic Republic... and nobody save Wraith to represent himself. The Jedi sat in attendance, alongside the likes of Commander Thrawn, Armand Isard and Captain Tarkin. A few holocameras swarmed the central scene, ensuring crystal clear images of The Wrath and The Chancellor were broadcasted throughout the judicial building and were recorded for archival purposes.
This was a day to be remembered.
With the assembly settled, Palpatine began, "This court is now in session. This is case number seventy-seven nine thirty-two oh-four: the Galactic Republic versus The Wraith. Representing the Republic is Senator Padme Amidala and representing himself, The Wraith." He stated. Padme stood on a hovering platform designated for the prosecuting attorney. "Wraith, you have been charged as a war criminal for fighting against the Galactic Republic. Your known charges include; mass counts of murder in the first degree, over a dozen counts of committing acts of terror against the Galactic Republic and its citizens, multiple counts of sabotage of military hardware, one count of genocide, two dozen counts of theft of Republic property, four counts of active malintent against the citizens of the Galactic Republic, two counts of inhumane torture for nefarious reasons, three dozens counts of threatened malintent, and one count of arson, battery, assault and kidnapping apiece." Palpatine listed off, really just summarizing the list. "How do you plead against these charges?" He asked, though that was more for formality's sake. Wraith did not immediately reply, but did slowly raise his helmeted head to comprehend his surroundings.
"If fighting against corruption to ensure a better way of life for the galaxy's inhabitants is a crime, then yes. I'm guilty." He responded in a low voice.
"Very well, but if you think an admission of guilt will earn you any leniency, I assure you that will not be the case," Palpatine stated, marking his statement for the record, "before these proceedings continue, I would like to call on Commander Fox... to remove your helmet." Wraith's head jolted ever so slightly, realizing he would lose the secret of his true appearance forever unless he did something. As the red-painted Clone approached, Wraith smirked.
"Careful. It's rigged." He said. That gave the Clone pause, Fox momentarily wondering if he should summon a bomb-disposal specialist to do this. Palpatine had reservations, not truly believing the Separatists would willingly arm one of their most valuable assets to be killed when he could easily be rescued (as well as knowing the truth), and turned to the Jedi.
"Master Skywalker, Master Kenobi... is he telling the truth?" He asked, inquiring if their Force senses had picked up anything. After a moment of referral, both Jedi shook their heads.
"No, sir. We're quite confident he's bluffing." Obi-Wan stated. Palpatine nodded.
"Very well. Commander Fox, proceed." The Clone did so, approaching the bound Wraith even as the super-soldier tried to shy away from him.
"I'd rather you didn't." He growled.
"You don't exactly get a say in this, Bucket-head." Fox retorted as he examined the infamous headpiece. Having taken the time to study what footage of The Wraith the Republic had assembled, Fox knew that a concealed button on one side allowed for his mask to retract. He found it by tentatively pressing in various spots until one panel totally depressed and the broken sections around his mouth whirred and sputtered, damaged by debris and no longer functional.
Examining the opposite, symmetrical side, Fox found an identical panel and pressed it, the immediate response being the shifting and sliding of other panels around his head, effectively loosening its hold. Grabbing it with both hands, Fox slid it off, a rush of auburn hair falling free as the helmet was removed.
"Red hair?" Mundi quietly asked aloud, rather surprised..
"Not what I was expecting either." Mace agreed. Fox removed Wraith's helmet completely, allowing everyone watching to finally see the youthful face beneath the mask. It was bruised and scarred, and Wraith purposefully kept his eyes closed, but now they knew.
Everyone knew what The Wraith really looked like.
Outside the courtroom, Ahsoka arrived late to the scene, finally told where everyone had headed by the Clones who'd ferried Wraith to the Coruscant guard. She tried to enter through one of the many access doors, only to be barred by the guarding Clones.
"No further admittance, Commander. Chancellor's orders." They said. So this trial was limited to only a few, Ahsoka determined. With a sigh she realized there wasn't a lot more she could do. It wasn't like she mind trick them and get away with it this time. "If you want to watch the trial, you'll have to do it from the common area."
"It's being broadcasted?" She wondered aloud, the trooper nodding as she made for the designated spot. It was just outside the primary spectator entrance and sported a few seats in addition to multiple view screens. As she sat down before one, it took the Togruta a second before she realized what was going on. "Oh no..." she breathed, realizing his helmet was gone. The camera got a good long look at the side of Wraith's exposed face, framed by his long hair. With his eyes closed and head tilted down, he looked forlorn and defeated, a look that pierced Ahsoka's heart.
With Wraith completely vulnerable before the Republic, Palpatine continued.
"Will the prosecutor come forth with evidence of these charges and the Senate's recommendation." Padme's platformed maneuvered to a position before the stand, between Palpatine and Wraith.
"Since this war began over a year ago, evidence for The Wraith's criminal activities has built up and continues to stockpile as we learn more about his deeds in the name of the Separatist Alliance," she began, Anakin smiling a little as he watched his wife do what she did best, "namely multiple attacks against Republic holdings as well as places and objects of strategic military value. The consecutive battles he has engaged in have resulted in a high body count for the Republic Grand Army, cementing his notorious reputation as a bloodthirsty killer with no regard for the lives of anyone he encounters."
"Not entirely accurate..." Wraith muttered under his breath. Padme didn't hear him and continued.
"I myself have witnessed this senseless brutality firsthand, having been captured and tortured by The Wraith as a means to exact revenge against the brave Jedi and soldiers of the Republic. Perfectly decent, normal human beings readily give their lives for the sake of our freedoms and democracy. Our Clones troopers are among some of the most brave and noble soldiers to exist in galactic history, yet The Wraith insists on cutting them down as though they were trees in his way, brutally murdering them in fashions so unspeakable I dare not recite them in this courtroom."
"Did you write this yourself or are you reading a holoprompter?" Wraith grumbled, agains under his breath to avoid being heard.
"Clearly, The Wraith is a threat not only to Republic security but also to peace and freedom in the galaxy at large, his terrorist actions against citizenry who stand against the Separatist Alliance clear evidence of such notions." Padme summarized. "It is the recommendation of the Republic Senate that The Wraith be convicted as a war criminal and be incarcerated without possibility of parole for an indefinite period of time."
"Thank you, Senator." Palpatine offered as Padme finished, the Senator's platform hovering out of the way. "Does the defendant have anything to say in light of these accusations?" He asked, now addressing Wraith. For a moment, the super-soldier remained silent again, as if processing everything he'd heard and working to form a suitable retort.
"Yes... Yes I do." He finally said, raising his head and snapping open his eyes to reveal their reptilian features. Several individuals audibly gasped, taken aback by his clearly unnatural eyes. "What your dear Senator calls 'terror' and 'murder' is simply my job, which is to tear down the galaxy's old way of life to make room for a new one... a better one." He began. "Not that any of you want to hear that. You've all done just fine for yourselves, thriving off of the Republic's corruption while average civilians struggle under corruption's oppressive boot. And what do you do about? Nothing, save attempt to better your own conditions. The Confederacy would not exist if the Republic had simply recognized its faults and determined to fix them. But you haven't. Your position on the issue is widely understood. In the words of my superior, Count Dooku of Serenno... the Republic cannot be fixed. It is clearly time to start anew... and I am but the fire to burn down the old forest to make way for the new one." Wraith declared. "Demonize me all you like, but I will stand by my actions and my orders, bearing the banner of the Confederacy with pride and honor, which is more than I can say for this pile of sithspit. You all see for yourselves that none of my allies are here, no one to represent me or the Confederacy. Clearly this 'trial' is nothing more than a sham, simple showmanship to make it seem like I've received a fair trial when you're simply doing the bare-minimum to ensure I get locked away without a hitch." He accused. "Spare me this flawed mockery of justice, and hurry your pronouncement of my fate." Wraith firmly stated in conclusion, virtually spitting the words. A moment of silence ensued as the spectators took a moment to digest his strong words, sharing glances and shaking their heads at sentences they all deemed to be severely flawed.
"Your clear distaste and unrepentant nature will be noted, for the record." Palpatine clearly directed, taking control of things once more. "And given your earlier admission of guilt, coupled with such condemning language from your own mouth, my decision has been made and your fate sealed, Wraith." The Chancellor stated. Giving the holocameras a moment to adjust, Palpatine made a few notes on a datapad as he prepared his decision. "Given the available evidence, testimonies and your own self-admission, this court finds you guilty of your war crimes and criminal activities and sentences you to spend the remainder of the war in prison," Palpatine declared. That seemed to be the end of things, but the Chancellor had decided on one final bombshell that would mark The Wraith's fate without a doubt,
"and when the war ends, with the Republic victorious... you will be executed."
His words caused a sudden stir both inside and outside of the courtroom. Those inside were not expecting the Chancellor's words, but to hear them so suddenly seemed good to them. They would finally be rid of their greatest opponent in no time. Outside, however...
"WHAT?!" Ahsoka exclaimed, eyes wide with horror as her mouth remained open in shock. She couldn't believe what she'd just heard.
Wraith... would be executed?!
"Does the defendant have any final words?" Palpatine asked, though such a notion was really just a formality by this point. Wraith, physically, appeared unmoved by Palpatine's sudden pronouncement of his impending death. But on the inside he was reeling. The sudden notion that he would die one day, his reputation suddenly for naught as there was a list of things he wanted to do still. He wanted to live life... not die in a cramped cell.
Still... he could not show weakness. Not in front of his hated enemies.
"You can destroy me... but you can never destroy what I stand for." He finally stated, determined to appear strong and unyielding in spite of everything. Palpatine simply nodded, as though merely accepting his words like they meant nothing to him.
In a way, they did.
"Take him away." He ordered. The Coruscant Guard took control of the palette and began to move Wraith out of the court room, the Coruscant Judiciary Central Detainment Centre his next, and final, destination. The spectators got up to leave, Jedi and Republic officials believing everything was said and done.
But Ahsoka was devastated.
That evening...
With The Wraith tried, convicted and locked away, the Republic was ready to wrap up this turn of events and move on with the war. The Jedi Council convened for a final meeting concerning the matter of The Wraith. All members were in attendance, either by hologram or in person, and also with them was Anakin Skywalker.
"I think we can all breathe a sigh of relief knowing that The Wraith has finally been dealt with." Master Windu stated, his fellow councillors agreeing with him.
"Now that this major threat is gone, we can move on with tracking down the remaining Separatist leaders." Mundi chimed in.
"If we can net Dooku, everything will come down around the Separatists." Anakin agreed. "It's only a matter of time."
"Until the Clone Wars end, peace the Republic will not know." Yoda stated.
"Which is why we must hurry to achieve such peace." Obi-Wan added. "Speaking of peace, how's Ahsoka doing?" He inquired, shifting his focus to Anakin. Having momentarily discussed the nature of his friend's issue with the Council, this was one topic he knew they needed to tackle now.
"She's been quiet ever since we left the judicial centre." The knight responded. "She hasn't said a word to me."
"Master Kenobi informed us of her rather hostile attitude towards you on Stassia." Mace explained, as stoic and even-toned as ever. "We'd like to have a word with her." Anakin nodded, knowing Ahsoka was likely about to receive a grilling from the Council, especially Windu. Hoping to alleviate some of that stress, Anakin offered one final comment.
"Before we do... I think she's having a rough time with her emotions." He suggested. "I'm concerned about her, yes, but the more I've thought about it, the more I think she might just be going through some... pubescent stuff." Having been through puberty himself, Anakin knew what it was like to have his emotions go haywire. Surely it was a different experience between men and women, but at least someone like Master Ti could emphasize with what she was going through and possibly lessen her burden.
"Consider your words, we will." Yoda replied. "See Padawan Tano now, we will." Anakin nodded and fetched Ahsoka from just beyond the chamber doors, escorting Ahsoka into the middle of the room. The young Togruta appeared gloomy, her eyes downcast and her arms loosely crossed. A depressed attitude radiated from her, the Jedi able to sense it as she didn't bother trying to hide it. Now in the center of the chamber, Ahsoka remained silent, not making eye contact with anyone as her gaze lingered on their feet instead.
"Ahsoka," Obi-Wan gently began, "how are you?"
"I'm... alright, Master." She slowly responded, her voice devoid of enthusiasm and sounding tired, depressed.
"Much hesitation in yours words, there is. Troubling you, something is?" Yoda inquired.
"It's just been a... long day." She plainly answered
"Anakin tells me you two got into something of a shouting match before we left Stassia." Obi-Wan mused.
"It was just an argument. We have those from time to time." The Padawan explained.
"Not like this one." Mace bluntly stated, broaching the topic without hesitation. The Togruta's dim blue eyes looked to the stern Jedi Master. "This was about The Wraith." Mace continued, now having her attention. "Your Master believes you have an emotional attachment to him." That was what Anakin had said. Ahsoka didn't have a lot more to say, at least nothing more to accompany her words which were already on record, and fell silent once more. Her gaze dropping back to the ground.
"Padawan Tano, nothing to say have you?" Yoda asked after a prolonged moment of no response.
"I... I never thought I had an attachment to him." Ahsoka quietly responded. "Even now... I still don't think so." That was technically a lie, she knew she was attached to him... or, more accurately, attracted to him. But she had never once thought such a thing had sprouted from her desire to help him. She believed it more or less came about as a response to his feelings for her. A reciprocation of them, if you will.
"It is possible to form an attachment without meaning to." Shaak Ti gently informed her. "This stems from your desire to help him, does it not?" She pried.
"I... guess it does." Ahsoka mumbled.
"Desire to redeem him, you do." Yoda stated. "Feel so differently about him than others, you do. Know why this is, do you?" Ahsoka did not immediately respond, inhaling and releasing a quiet sigh before doing so,
"It's... Something deep inside me, whenever someone says he's a war criminal or a monster, it just says 'no, that's not right'. I don't know where it comes from, or what caused it, but I just feel... differently about him." To the Jedi that sounded like her instincts, something the Force tended to use as an aid during certain situations. The logic behind her seemingly abstract reasoning suddenly became quite clear. "And right now... I feel like I failed to do that." She added.
"You haven't necessarily failed, Ahsoka," Plo tried to encourage her.
"But you heard Chancellor Palpatine, he's going to execute him!" Ahsoka responded, her eyes suddenly alight with a urgent sense of hopelessness. "What am I supposed to do?" She wondered, sounding pained and at a loss. "I'm just one person... one person who says he can be redeemed when everyone else says otherwise." She dejectedly told them. Anakin spoke next, but not to Ahsoka.
"Should we tell her what we heard in that voice log The Titans recovered?" The Council bore mixed expressions of hesitation and reluctance, as well as concern.
"Is that wise?" Obi-Wan wondered.
"It might help to clear everything up." Anakin replied. After a moment of debate, Mace nodded.
"Yes it would." He stated. Offering a quick nod to Shaak Ti, the Togruta Master rose and removed the voice recorder from her robe, the same one the Titans had recovered from the Sluis Van station, walking over to Ahsoka and passing it to her. With a wave of her hand, the Force toggled the single recording stored on it. "There is a reason why we've been trying to discourage your attempts to get through to him." Mace told Ahsoka as she watched a soundwave pattern appear before her. "We are only letting you listen to this now to help you understand," as he finished, a familiar voice began to play from the device,
"Wraith's log. Entry twenty."
...
"I kriffed up on Aliston Nor. I kriffed up big time.
"I thought it was just Skywalker, I didn't realize she was attacking me too. I know she has to keep up appearances, but if only I'd known I could've done something different. I guess I was too flustered after Sereva kissed me. I don't know. Maybe there is no excuse."
...
"Stars, I feel terrible."
...
...
"I'm going to be blunt here, in the safety of my own private logs...
"Every time I see her... I just want to hug her and hold her. I want to... kiss her and... love her. And what's so wrong with something as wholesome as this? The fact that we're on opposite sides in this kriffing war? It's a cheap excuse at best."
...
"I... I don't know how many times I've said this before, but... I-I love her. I love Ahsoka Tano. And I feel sick, just thinking about what I did to her. On accident, mind you.
"Force almighty, that was hard to say out loud. I'm so scared of saying it like everything will dissolve the instant I do. I know I have to tell her, for fear I might burst... but what if the happy little bubble I'm living in bursts along with it?"
...
"Guys like me don't get a happy ending. Whomever history paints as the 'bad guy' is forever loathed by the public. I don't want that... I want to just..."
...
"If I had a choice, I would leave this all behind. I would live a quiet life with her, somewhere far from everything. If she wanted to leave the whole war behind, the Republic, the Jedi, the Separatists, all of it. If she wanted to leave and start over, I would join her in a heartbeat. I know where my loyalties lie. I cannot accept the Republic and their ideals. But I would abandon the Separatists if it meant I could live a quiet, unassuming life with Ahsoka. That is my dream..."
...
"She is the only one I am allied with. The only person in the universe I pledge my allegiance to.
As the log came to an end, Ahsoka was left startled by the words. If she understood this right, Wraith had recorded this after leaving Aliston Nor, just after he'd accidentally punched her.
He'd loved her even then.
Hearing his declaration again caused Ahsoka to soften. To listen to him speak these words in such a soft and tender manner warmed her through and through and it made her realize just how much he cared about her, even before his profession on Scarif. Though he did not actually indicate it, Ahsoka had an inkling he'd felt this way about her for some time. The absolute certainty with which he spoke in this log suggesting that much.
But then she realized something.
The other Jedi had only ever told her that Wraith had a crush on her, that she was some kind of fantasy to him. But if they had listened to this and then continued to tell her the same thing... they had effectively lied to her.
"It is understood that Wraith has made some manner of advances towards you. But now with his own words, his true feelings are made known to us." Mace finally continued after Ahsoka had processed the recording. "We have kept this from you simply for your sake." He stated.
"A path to the Dark Side, temptation is." Yoda agreed. Her gaze breaking off from the recording, Ahsoka looked up and glanced between the councillors.
"You... Y-You think I might be t... t-tempted by Wraith?" She asked, sounding surprised by the notion.
"Given the attachment you seemed to have to him, the notion was not beyond possibility." Mace responded in his usual grim tone.
"Your concern for his wellbeing is... genuine, Ahsoka." Adi Gallia interjected, trying to lift Ahsoka's spirits. "Your sense of care and compassion is to be praised. You have the heart of a peacekeeper and the makings of a true Jedi." She complimented.
"However, given Wraith's sense of affection towards you, you must be very careful around him. If you let your guard down for even a moment, he will lead you astray." Obi-Wan told her. "We act only for your safekeeping, Ahsoka. We're just trying to help you." The sudden rush of information was almost too much for Ahsoka. Knowing that the Jedi knew about Wraith's affection well before she did and yet continued to tell her the same thing, which was basically a lie now... she needed time to think through all of this, preferably alone.
"I... I understand, Masters." She slowly responded, hoping to wrap this up. She could be compliant and play the part of a loyal Jedi in the wrong, if only to hurry this up so she could start thinking clearly.
"You must break off whatever attachment you have with him." Mace said next. That was not a suggested course of action, but a command. "Such a thing can make you vulnerable to emotional influences. The Jedi Code is very clear about attachments, is it not?"
"Yes Master." Ahsoka nodded dutifully.
"We understand you were not necessarily aware of it. But now that you are, you must do so." Shaak added.
"Finally, there is the issue of your insubordination towards your master. Anakin told us many things about your argument on Stassia." Mace continued. "While you may not see eye to eye, he is your superior and therefore worthy of approaching with respect." He chided. "You are confined to your quarters until a suitable discipline can be arranged. No missions, no extra activities outside the Temple. Understood?"
"Yes Master." Ahsoka nodded again.
"Before you go, I believe you have something to say to Anakin." Mace stated in closing. Ahsoka had a feeling she knew what they wanted to hear and turned to her master.
"I'm sorry I shouted at you Master." She apologized.
"I get it Snips." Anakin gently replied, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder, "I forgive you."
Entering her room with a sigh, Ahsoka carelessly discarded her lightsabers and plopped down on her bed, feeling completely drained after the day's events. It sure had been a day unlike any other, never did she ever believe that there would come a time when Wraith would be sitting in a Republic prison.
But now he was... and the Chancellor wanted him dead. Unless something happened, that was the future they had to look forward to.
It was a future Ahsoka was none-too-enthused with. She wanted Wraith free and, more importantly, alive. She wanted to be able to talk to him more, to go on more adventures with him, to... love him.
She knew the Council was right in saying she had an attachment to Wraith, but hers ran far deeper than they could imagine. Master Windu was also right in saying that an attachment would make her vulnerable to emotional aspects, as Ahsoka understood that many of her emotions (and ensuing reactions) were now tied directly to Wraith. She had been able to convince them through expressions and words that they had hit the proverbial nail on the head and that her 'issue' would be resolved in due time. If they knew the truth... her punishment would likely be a lot harsher than simply getting sent to her room.
But that raised another question in her mind. The question of the fact that they'd lied to her... and then had the audacity to defend themselves!
Then again... she was lying to them even now.
"This is... dangerous..." Was all she could say. Leaning back against the wall, Ahsoka tentatively reached up towards her lekku. The sensitive organs provided varying responses when touched, depending on the area. Sometimes it was soft and soothing sensations not unlike being petted, other times it was... well... enough to make her gasp and go cross-eyed for a moment. But she did like it when a simple presence rested against them, not unlike Wraith's hand when they hugged. With him in prison, Ahsoka knew she would miss those moments, their little interactions and the subtle things he did to make her feel good.
"Credit for your thoughts." A familiar voice asked. Sitting up, Ahsoka saw Wraith sitting against a flat gray wall through yet another connection.
"Hey." She greeted with a smile, spirits suddenly lifted by his appearance. He looked tired and worn, the bruises on his exposed skin making it look like he'd just been through one helluva fight. In a way, he had. "You alright? I'm just wondering since you're all locked up now."
"Yeah, I'm fine. Apparently this is one of those cells with magnetized walls," he replied, holding up his arms to reveal silver cuffs around his wrists, "hence my new accessories. They could pin me to the wall at any given moment and I'd be stuck." Wraith told her. "At least all the advanced electronics means no monitoring systems."
"They're not watching you?" She wondered.
"Nope. I'm separate from all the other prisoners, I remember that much. All I've got is four walls and an overhead light. Plus a shelf they generously call a bed." He added, making Ahsoka giggle a little.
"Sounds cozy." She sardonically remarked before moving on to more important issues. "How're you holding up? Did you receive any medical attention?"
"No. They just pulled me off that palette and shoved me in here." Wraith replied, much to her dismay. He ran a hand through his auburn hair, pushing it behind his ear. "I'm too sore to move, anyway. Just enough in me to alternate between sitting and lying down."
"I'll see if I can do something," Ahsoka promised, "as soon as I'm off probation, that is."
"Oh no, what'd you do?"
"Just got into an argument with Anakin... and, maybe, yelled at him." She explained.
"Ah. They're big on the whole 'respect your master' bit, eh?"
"Yeah." Ahsoka agreed with a nod. A moment of silence ensued, the two acting as though she shared a cell, Ahsoka trapped in her room and Wraith in prison. "So... everyone knows what I now know."
"What's that?" He wondered.
"What the man under the mask looks like." She replied, looking up with a smile. Wraith let out a short laugh.
"Yep, guess so. Anyone and everyone now knows how handsome I am. There's probably ladies on the other end of the galaxy swooning over me right now." He joked.
"Yeah, I've heard Trandoshan girls dig the eyes." Ahsoka teased.
"Whatever." Wraith scoffed with a flippant wave of his hand. They shared a moment of brevity as Ahsoka scooted over to him, slipping her hand into his. For a moment they just sat there, hand in hand, basking in the moment of closeness. Wraith might be in prison, but Ahsoka was thankful for the Force enabling them to be together like this. She still didn't quite understand how or why this worked, but she appreciated it nevertheless. "How long do you think the war will last for?" Wraith suddenly asked as Ahsoka put her head on his shoulder. At first, Ahsoka thought his query strange and questioned if it might have something to do with when he might be free. But then she remembered Chancellor Palpatine's pronouncement and realized that Wraith was feeling very mortal.
He was worried about dying.
"I'm sure it won't end tomorrow." She assured him. He simply nodded.
"Next time you go into battle, do me a favor and lose a few fights, okay?" He half-jokingly, half-seriously requested. Despite the humourous tone in his voice, Ahsoka could tell it was thin and forced. Wraith was trying to use it as a means to mask his true feelings. She could sense something peeking over the edge of that mask, but couldn't quite figure it out.
"Wraith," she softly spoke, sitting up and turning his gaze towards her with her free hand, "are you sure you're alright?" She asked, genuinely concerned about how he was doing. Wraith knew he simply couldn't maintain his facade, not around her. Ahsoka deserved to know the truth... that he wasn't invincible or as tough as he seemed.
"I'm scared, Ahsoka." He admitted in a quiet voice, squeezing her hand a little tighter. "I don't want to die." Ahsoka could see the fearful emotions ripple across his eyes and felt them even stronger through the Force as his mask gave way to tumultuous fear. His fear tugged on her heartstrings and Ahsoka wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him as she had so many times before.
"I won't let you die." She vowed, hugging him tighter. "I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to make sure you survive. Even if that means betraying everything I've ever known." Such ramifications she could barely comprehend in the moment, but in her heart it felt like something she'd do for him; go to whatever lengths necessary to ensure he did not suffer an unjust demise.
"If you go against the Republic, you'll lose everything." Wraith quietly responded, thinking it completely unreasonable for Ahsoka to have to give up her life for his sake. She pulled back and looked him right in the eyes as one hand stroked his scars.
"I'll still have you." She whispered, pledging her dedication to him. Wraith reached out and cupped her cheek in response, his thumb rubbing her cheek marking, silently offering his thanks and affection by leaning forward and gently pressing his lips against hers. Ahsoka closed her eyes and reciprocated adding a little pressure as she moved against him. His hand rose up to hold her rear headtail, keeping Ahsoka in place much to her delight. The kiss started out slow and gentle, like it always did. But mirror emotions and symmetrically flaming feelings caused things to escalate as Wraith and Ahsoka engaged in yet another makeout session, something they'd done several times now.
As his tongue teased her lower lip and a slight nip from him pulled a moan from her, Ahsoka felt a sudden surge as continued to kiss Wraith. After everything that had transpired today, she just wanted to be near him, to be with him, to hold him, to hug him, to kiss him... and maybe even more.
They were close now, but she wanted to be even closer to him.
Sliding into his lap, her legs on either side of his hips, Ahsoka pressed her body up against his until she could feel every contour of his muscular build and he could feel her lithe, athletic body even through their clothes. The heat between them was slowly building, escalating along with them as they passionately made out, tongues now joining the union of their lips. Ahsoka groaned into mouth as a pleasurable friction rippled through her, starting down between her legs as she rocked back and forth in his lap, grinding against him. After having spent so long feeling helpless and restrained, it simply felt good to be this close and this open with someone. They broke apart for a moment, lips slick with saliva, eyes half-lidded, cheeks burning as they held one another. "How desperate do you think I am now?" Ahsoka breathily wondered, remembering their earlier conversation.
"Probably as desperate as I am." Wraith replied in a low, husky tone.
As Wraith and Ahsoka took advantage of their moment together, something was afoot in a different area of the Jedi Temple...
As the Jedi Council continued their business, their meeting bound to last well into the night as talks of other Separatist trouble and further Jedi business came up, the Force suddenly revealed something to Master Yoda. The elderly Grand Master closed his eyes and focused on what he was seeing, watching the vision unfold with his mind's eye.
Two great storms of energy swirled in powerful vortices before him, each one radiating emotions through the Force. From the lighter side came peace, hope, compassion and resilience. From the darker side came passion, strength, power and resilience also. Then from within them both, shapes began to appear, taking on new dimensions as they crystallized before Yoda. Within the heart of the storm of light, he saw the unmistakably shadowy appearance of Ahsoka, and within the storm of darkness he gazed upon the form of The Wraith.
These storms represented them both...
But then the energy in each vortex began to drift, fusing together with the swirling masses of the other until they were drifting to and fro in a seamless act of cohesion and equality. And within this evenly-distributed mass, something new was shown to Master Yoda.
The Grand Master saw a vision of Wraith and Ahsoka, fighting back to back against a myriad of enemies. Clones, battle droids, pirates, mercenaries, creatures, monster, there were many but the duo took them all head-on. There was a power shared between them, a power he could sense quite clearly even in this vision. When united, they were strong. When their focus shared a common goal, when the two of them worked together, there was a power that exceeded any lone Jedi or Sith.
They were two halves of a whole, and together they created a near perfect sense of balance. If one of them was missing, creating an imbalance, this power would fall asunder... and terrible things might happen.
"What is it Master Yoda?" Plo Koon inquired, seeing the concentrated expression on Yoda's face, despite his closed eyes. The Grand Master opened them to see the Council regarding him with mixed curiosity and concern. Considering the nature of this vision was new to him, he thought it best to share with all of them.
"A premonition, I've had. A vision of the future." He announced. The Council leaned in, now more curious than anything. "Tread carefully we must in this issue of The Wraith. More intwined, the destinies of Wraith and Ahsoka are, than we could imagine. More, perhaps, than even they know."
"To what end?" Shaak inquired. Yoda's response shocked them all.
"Be executed, The Wraith must not be. For if lose him we do, fall to the Dark Side Ahsoka Tano will."
