Star Wars: Arda Unleashed

by Lord Exar Kun

After the Arda Campaign ended in victory for the Republic and their local allies, the galaxy's eyes returned to the wider Clone Wars. However, the Dark Lord Sauron has yet to be vanquished. Now he has come to the wider galaxy free from the binds of Arda, and is ready to be unleashed upon the stars. As the Chosen One's fate, the Republic's and the Jedi Order's remains to be seen.

14. Piracy Pillaging Politics

Chapter 14

Piracy...Pillaging...Politics

"Oh it's quite the world you have here!"

"Aye, when we were...landing, I thought I must've been seeing things at first. Though it wasn't for the first time, I should say." Merry added after Pippin. The two hobbits sitting nearby as Obi-Wan smiled their way.

"I hope the transition has not been too cumbersome. From prior experience many off-worlders have trouble adjusting to Coruscant on first arrival. Most worlds in the galaxy aren't so unimaginably layered in metallic city sprawl."

"There are others?!" Gimli sat up where he reclined opposite Obi-Wan. A pipe in his beard covered reddish mane.

"Quite, Gimli."

"What are they called?" Pippin asked, ever inquisitively.

"Hmm, well Coruscant you know, of course. Well there's Denon, Axxila, Anaxes, Alsaken, Grizmallt and Taris. Though Taris has a long and sordid history. Despite the city sprawl it was bombarded thousands of years ago from orbit. Reducing the world and its many millions to dust."

"Millions, Master Kenobi?" Gandalf intoned, and Obi-Wan could see a subdued horror in the wizard's wise eyes. For his part Obi-Wan nodded.

"The galaxy has a long history of atrocities and wars, my friends. Even during this war, many a world have been leveled by attacks committed by the Separatists."

"Would this world have been destroyed had your people lost the battle?" Obi-Wan tilted to see the voice's originator. It being one of Elrond's sons...he believed Elrohir.

"Destroyed?" Obi-Wan began. "I don't quite know if that would have been the goal. The Separatists had come seeking to abduct our leader, Chancellor Palpatine. Well...not my leader. The Head of State of the Galactic Republic."

"Does the Jedi Order not answer to this Republic?" Elrohir wondered softly.

"In some ways we do. Yet, we are in many aspects autonomous and defend what autonomy we hold. Many thousands of years ago the Order swore to defend the Republic against outside threats. When exploring the galaxy was young, and often treacherous. This does not mean the Republic's leaders or politicians can order the Jedi to do whatever it is they need or will. In times of emergency, such as war we do involve ourselves in military affairs with a chain of command. Though we much prefer peace times. Where our Order works on peacekeeping missions and operations to stabilize troubled worlds or systems." The elf Prince nodded as Obi-Wan explained.

"Regardless, when we arrived the battle that was taking place uh..."

"In orbit, my Lady." Obi-Wan helped the young elf maiden he had only just met some moments prior. Tauriel nodded her thanks with a shy smile.

"Yes, thank you. Well what I meant to say was that I had never seen such a battle. Those among my kin had heard of great beasts assailing the Men of the East before we arrived at Dale at the very end of the War. I learned of my Lord Legolas afterward to the origin of these 'beasts.' Your people are quite technological. Metal and fire. It is both impressive, and frightening, if you don't mind my saying so, Master Kenobi."

"No I don't mind at all!" Obi-Wan assured.

"It is true that Arda would rank on the lower end of technology in terms of worlds entering into the galactic community. Though less technology...well what I mean is less focus on the advancement on technology to the detriment of others would be much welcome. I should think. Advances in such things occurs because of and during war. When the main purpose of the creation is death one can hardly see the worth in things. Though I am afraid going backward is never an option." Obi-Wan offered.

"Regardless, I am quite impressed with everything I have seen! Little could I or anyone else dream to expect such sights as we have seen above and upon this world! I think I speak for everyone present here at least." Elladan swept the room and indeed everyone seemed to agree with him. Well, Galadriel more gave a curt nod of acknowledgment, but Obi-Wan remembered the odd Elven Queen. He figured and deduced such was simply her way.

"We get to see you and Anakin again though! Through it all I'd say we got out the other end well enough!" Pippin offered with wide a grin and ever the present chuckle about his voice. Obi-Wan smiled. His mind tempting him to gloom with thoughts of the many millions dead across Coruscant. Yet, he pushed such things aside for now.

"I am very happy to see you all again. And meet new friends as well." He again turned and bowed to Tauriel. She smiled, and Obi-Wan felt bad for her. Just from meeting her and talking with her, Obi-Wan got the distinct sensation that she was out of her depth. Though, he did know everyone else here to varying degrees. Though he suspected Anakin likely forgot Elladan and Elrohir.

"From what Anakin has told us," Gandalf began from where he stood beside Obi-Wan. "We are not so much free to leave this, admittedly spacious, home until this Chancellor allows us such freedom?"

"That is mostly correct. It is not so much the Chancellor alone. The Republic has many departments and ministries. Offices that handle different affairs of the government. The Diplomatic Corps, or the Ministry, handles relations between the Republic and new worlds and visitors from these worlds. Usually there are a series of documents, and security measures, and all such things that have to be completed in order for a seamless visit to help a world's delegation come to the happy conclusion to join in with the Republic."

"Sounds like a lot of work for a simple visit!" Gimli bellowed.

"It is. Though it has its purposes." Obi-Wan slightly shrugged. Though he was sure many would disagree with him on the merits of bureaucracy. Especially Anakin. The dwarf puffed his pipe and thoughtfully hummed, and Obi-Wan chuckled before turning back to Gandalf.

"I'm sure we'll find a way to get you lot out from this apartment. Just give it a little more time."

"You spoke earlier of gaining an audience with your Council, Master Kenobi." He turned to Tauriel.

"Is that likely? I do not mean to impose myself, but it was a matter of importance to my Lord Legolas, and as such I believe others concerned with this delegation that I meet with your Order. As to the best of my and its ability."

"I'm glad you brought that up actually, my Lady. Before coming over I had spoken with the two highest authorities of my Order. Masters Yoda and Windu. Both were receptive to having everyone come for an informal tour of the Temple. As well a meeting could be produced for some of the Council. The leading body of the Order. I can work that out as soon as I know when everyone here is allowed freedom to leave the apartment."

"How many others like you and Anakin are there?" Merry butted in, but Obi-Wan did see the earnest sense of gratitude come over Tauriel's expression.

"There were many more than there are now. The Order has lost too many in this war. Though to your question several thousand, Merry."

"My word! Such a number with the abilities you and the lad have and the war on Arda may have been won in days!" Gimli coughed out through his beard. Obi-Wan chuckled back at him.

"The Order doesn't like to view itself as a military, Gimli. We are keepers of the peace. We tend not to function together as an army. When Jedi gather in large numbers it is for rare circumstances, and the last time we had...many Jedi died. We too can be overwhelmed."

"Then how does your Order work? In matters of war, if you don't mind my asking, Master Kenobi." Prince Elrohir wondered.

"Not at all." Obi-Wan waved his concern off. "In times of war, and not just in this current one, the Jedi take on a command position. Though we are usually front line commanders, some Jedi do prefer to be tactical. It depends on their inherent abilities and manner. Myself and Anakin, for instance, are usually on the front with the troopers. Though I am prone to making rear guard commands and observing overall operational oversight." Obi-Wan could sense some of them grow a bit confused. He had to remind himself such terminology perhaps wasn't as ubiquitous among anyone from Arda.

"Hmm, well...long story short, we Jedi usually take control of the armies in whatever particular means best fit us. I have commanded entire armies both from the front and back. Anakin tends to lead task forces. Strike teams and smaller divisions, or army sizes. Though he has been part of the command structure before. If a squad of troopers need us to lead on a special mission of great importance we do so. If an entire army requires our input and leadership it receives it."

"This Chancellor then, does he lead his armies like a King?" One of the brothers, Elladan this time, asked. Obi-Wan couldn't help but smirk. A sarcastic chuckle creeping past his lips before he caught himself.

"No no, nothing of the sort. Most politicians don't partake in battle. The few that have fired a blaster have been the exceptions not the rule. Even then it is not something anyone promotes or encourages. The leaders of the worlds, systems, sectors, and the overall Republic are needed in their positions of governance."

"Perhaps." Elladan offered with a flicking motion of his wrist. "Though it would seem to me a more honorable thing to join with the men you send off to war. Anything otherwise would appear an act of cowardice or contempt."

"Contempt?" Obi-Wan cocked a brow.

"Yes. In that you can send hundreds, thousands, or as you made evident, millions to their deaths, but do nothing to feel their suffering? To know their pain? I have, along with my brother, seen men fight. We Eldar are in a sense lucky. Even in death we can presume to see one another again once we have been cleansed within the Halls of Mandos. Men on the other hand know not what awaits them in death. They travel where none can see, save one. Regardless," Elladan waved himself clearly getting off track. "My point, Master Kenobi, is that unless a leader fights with those he commands to kill, he holds little understanding of what he imposes on others."

"In a sense I see your point." Obi-Wan granted. "However, some Kings are unfit to command armies of men. Some politicians are unfit to dictate to nations of them in kind. The opposite of both is also equally possible." To that, Elladan turned his eyes upward in momentary thought.

"Fair point, Master Kenobi." He smiled and offered the moment after.

The door's comm unit hummed and quickly caught everybody's attention. Obi-Wan tilted his head, but rose quickly after. Sensing his old padawan's approach. Strangely enough...or perhaps not all that strangely, Gandalf didn't seem to need to ask who it was on the other side. With a knowing smile the older man strode over and pressed the release button and the door slid open revealing Anakin. Still looking decidedly like he had not gotten enough sleep.

"Anakin." Obi-Wan bowed. Noticing his Master, Anakin smiled a thin and weak smile but gave a customary dip in kind.

"Master."

"You look...terrible, my friend." Obi-Wan chuckled as the Knight stepped inside.

"Thank you, Master. I wasn't aware you were the one to give input on outward appearances." He snidely though playfully retorted casting a happy glance the way of everyone else in the room.

"I see you've come to bother our poor guests."

"Only after having learned you've already done so. Any proper meeting with Anakin Skywalker and dignitaries deserves an equal meeting with Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"Oh? And why's that, Master?"

"Well, obviously to fix whatever it is you undoubtedly said to cause a diplomatic incident!" Both jabbed at one another and within moments both shared a comical, and mirthful laugh as Anakin approached closer.

"You may have a point." Anakin conceded. "Merry, Pip, Gimli! Glad to see you again so soon after the last."

"Aye, good to see you again Anakin, sir. Gimli was just remarking on how much he missed you." Merry offered.

"Hmm?!" The dwarf sputtered.

"Oh yes, he was beside himself in grief at your prior leaving!" Pip added with a grin.

"I was in no such way you two rascals!" Gimli gave a stout but hearty roar toward the hobbits whom laughed at his expense.

"I...uh excuse my outburst, my Lady! I lose myself with the mischievous nature of our young hobbit friends."

"You are, as ever forgiven, Master Dwarf." Galadriel offered where she sat in lordly a fashion in a further set away table. All as Gimli sputtered and mumbled something about rowdy young hobbits as the ones in question jabbed one another with their elbows and cackled gleefully.

"My word, everything here seems to be in order."

"Couldn't agree more my old padawan." Both Jedi shook their heads.

"I take it you met with the Chancellor?" Anakin was silent for a moment before seeming to shake free from a thought.

"Yes Master. It was on...several matters. Some small talk between friends..."

"And?"

"And the new powers given to him by the Senate, yes. I assume that's what you really want to talk about?" Anakin replied mimicking his Master's own tone.

"You saw your Chancellor?"

"Isn't that the one who could let us free of this metal cage?!" Merry and Gimli respectively butted in.

"Metal cage? Of all people I thought you'd appreciate a residence in a spire, Gimli!" Anakin replied.

"Ah! This place intrigues me sure! Towers, and indeed a whole city made of glimmering metal! Why it fills me wee heart with pride to see metals used for such craftsmanship! Though, I'd always prefer exploration of the deepest of caves and burrowing into rock rather than sitting pretty atop shining metals! I'm no dragon laddie!" The dwarf puffed free of his mouth a circle of smoke as he chortled.

"Fair enough." Anakin again chuckled. "And yes, I met with the Chancellor earlier. I managed to gain you all an early leave to explore Coruscant at least."

"Ya heard that? We get to go out into the city!" Pippin jumped at the prospect of exploration.

"Secured their release have you? Isn't that usually an action undertaken by the Diplomatic Services and the Foreign Relations Ministry?" Obi-Wan crossed his arms.

"Yeah...I mean yes of course. But, come on Master you don't want them to be stuck in here for what could be a week or more do you?! Especially now with everything that's happened recently. I bet it'd take the Corps two weeks to even realize they had dignitaries awaiting them. Even with incentive by Senatorial office!"

"Senatorial off...ah, right." Obi-Wan nodded saying no more. Realizing that Padmé must've been roped into trying to expedite their release before Anakin's meeting with Palpatine.

"Still, I certainly hope you didn't promise or offer the Chancellor favors for this. On your own behalf and especially not on the part of the Order." Anakin furrowed his brow. His expression darkening as he shifted into crossing his own arms.

"I hadn't. Why would I do such a thing? The Chancellor is, as I've said before," He emphasized. "An old friend. I told him about our friends being held up by bureaucracy, and he promised a swift expediting of it. I see no harm done."

"Nothing like a little Executive interference to move things along more quickly." Obi-Wan offered sensing the challenge being put upon him by Anakin. Also noting how right he was on his old student's thoughts concerning bureaucracy.

"Not another lecture, Master. I've listened to far too many of them concerning how and why and when and where."

"I don't doubt that, Anakin. Yet, you still often times don't see the bigger picture."

"'Bigger picture?' What bigger picture?!" Neither Jedi noticed everyone else in the room eyeing them silently and their trade of emotions. The hobbits in particular not totally unfamiliar with the two arguing, but this time felt...more so intense. The wizard to Anakin's back betraying no thoughts as he narrowed his eyes.

"The Order doesn't make 'deals,' and we don't promise anything beyond our mandates, my young friend. You've had a long sordid record of making offers beyond the Order and the Council's wishes that-"

"More often than not whatever it is the Council wishes to do is not enough! Were we to have strictly followed the Council's mandate some years ago we may not have realized the Separatist Plot until too late! Nor Kamino may I add."

"Sometimes, and I do mean, sometimes," Obi-Wan now emphasized. "A little practicality in movement, in leniency of what we do for the greater good can be acceptable. IF!" Obi-Wan raised a silencing finger to preemptively cut off whatever Anakin had to gloat over.

"If it does not violate the mandate! If we are not making promises we cannot keep, if we're not adding rules and needs arbitrarily. We certainly don't cut deals on our own between ourselves and political types on behalf of the Order."

"I asked! As a friend."

"Yes, but Anakin you're not just his friend! You're a Jedi Knight, and as a Jedi Knight you have responsibilities! Not just to yourself, not just to your friends, but to the Republic and to the Order!"

"It was one simple request!" Anakin fired back as the two's voices steadily rose. Tempers flaring as anger ebbed into the Force. Both desperate to let it go. Though the heaviness was not lost on any of the others present.

"AH! Ya' two bicker like dwarf wives in their later third centuries!" Gimli cut through and puffed his pipe as both turned to him. Obi-Wan sighed before turning back to Anakin. A shrug of his shoulders following.

"What's done is done. I'm sure our friends appreciate what you've done, Anakin. I suppose it's not 'too big' a deal. As you would say." Obi-Wan chose to relent. Anakin, for his part, Obi-Wan could see tightening his jaw. The Force betraying his overall sour mood. His old Master knowing this fight alone was not at work here. Something else hung over his apprentice, and had all day.

"Sorry, Master. I didn't mean to get so worked up. It's been a long day. Lots of back and forth..."

"It has been." Obi-Wan waved him off. A signal and cue that all was forgiven, and Anakin took it happily.

"What about them, Master? Have you manged to talk to the Council about getting them a tour, or meeting?"

"We were just talking about that before you arrived, my lad!" Gandalf interjected rounding the two leaning on his staff. "Obi-Wan here has managed to get us into your Temple as soon as allowable, I'm sure."

"Indeed." Obi-Wan nodded.

"Well that's good. Everything seems to be falling together then!" Anakin forced a smile that wasn't wholly lacking in happiness.

"It would seem so. I think maybe tomorrow morning or afternoon? Depending on my schedule, and that of the Council of course."

"I think that would be most welcome." Gandalf agreed with a smile. Though he did turn, silently asking the others. All of them nodding their agreement.

"Aye! I'd like to see a whole Temple of you Jedi folk! See for meeself how large this Order of mighty fighters be!" Both Jedi smirked to Gimli's ever infectious mannerisms.

"Ah good! Then I believe that's settled then. Tomorrow morning or evening, Master Kenobi." Gandalf bowed.

"Excellent! I think-"

"Master." Anakin cut Obi-Wan off.

"What?"

"I uh...I do need to talk to you about something. Something that may take up some time soon."

"Meaning what, Anakin?"

"About the meeting with the Chancellor. I think we both may be getting a call soon." Obi-Wan studied Anakin's face for a moment and saw a bit of anxiety welled up within. Etched into his features a grated look and heavy eyes. A glint of excitement too. Interesting…

"Ah, I see. Well perhaps the balcony would suffice?"

"Yes please! Go on and take the space to speak in council." Gandalf prodded, though it would not be the first time this same day he had been on that balcony discussing sensitive matters with someone.

"Needn't worry of us." Elrohir offered. "We elves do a fine job of tuning those out who wish their privacy. Well, I, my Lady Tauriel, and my grandmother. Not so much Elladan."

"Ha!" The twin chortled a single rebuking laugh in return which caused a snicker among some present.

"Very well. Come along, Anakin." Obi-Wan led Anakin toward and onto the balcony. The sound of mindless discussion and chatter following in their wake among the delegation. Mostly a trade of barbs between the twin elves and the hobbits in honesty.

The Coruscant sky was dimmed. Gray clouds had invaded as evening fell across their corner of Coruscant. Give an hour or two, Obi-Wan hadn't bothered to check, but night would truly be on them. Anakin, as Obi-Wan observed, looked as if he had no clue where the time had gone.

"Alright, what news?" Obi-Wan asked. Something in the Force warning him to be ready...though he certainly hoped it wasn't bad.

"The Chancellor...he and I discussed his new Executive powers." Obi-Wan raised a brow, but remained silent as Anakin leaned into the metallic cold rail encircling their veranda.

"I don't know how much you heard of the new powers the Senate is handing over, but..." Anakin tilted his head to Obi-Wan. His dirty blonde hair fluttering in the high winds as his features remained tensed. "They're planning on voting over their own power of delegation where the Order is involved." Obi-Wan's brow dipped instantly and he folded his arms over his chest. A strain of anxiety gripping him before he released it diligently.

"Granting the Chancellor direct communication of the Order? Such a thing...he means to utilize it to make commands of the Order." Obi-Wan intuited though Anakin neither agreed nor disagreed.

"Overreach! This is nothing but Executive overreach!" Obi-Wan grumbled and shook his head. His own strands of hair blustering about his brow.

"The Council will push back against this. Any attempt by any branch of the Republic to impose restriction, or control of the Jedi Order is not what the Order agreed to. Not in the treaties made thousands of years ago, and not those made at the start of this blasted war!" Obi-Wan wasn't sure who he was announcing this to, but the compulsion to say it could not be contained.

"I don't think we need be so apocalyptic, Master!" Anakin tried to soothe. "The Chancellor only means to try and end the war more quickly! If he wishes to directly communicate with the Council where we're needed then...then what can be so bad about that?"

"Palpatine has been bloated with powers no other Chancellor has wielded since the times before the Ruusan Reformations! The Jedi led the Republic through those crises of the time. You don't understand me, Anakin." Obi-Wan went on. "The Order must remain independent. The Republic cannot and nor should it be allowed to dictate policy to the Jedi. Where will that end? Ordering us to lead armies? Forwarding us as diplomats? Fine options, and those which the Order freely attends to as requested. What about if the Chancellor, whomever they may be, decides the Order should patrol city streets on behalf of the Republic? Act as personal constant guard to the Chancellor? Perhaps laws are written detailing the Order as subservient to the Chancellor and answerable to none but their office?!" Anakin huffed a sigh but swept his vision back over the vast streams of airspeeders. A subtle nod shaking his shoulders.

"I know, I know. I just...I think you're projecting a little. Come war's end these powers won't be needed. The Chancellor will have to cede powers back to the Senate. His emergency tenure over with."

"One can only hope, Anakin." The Knight narrowed his gaze. Turning to Obi-Wan.

"What do you mean?" Obi-Wan opened his mouth, but closed it after and chose to sigh instead. Joining Anakin at the rail and gripping it with both hands. His meetings with the Council, and especially Yoda and Windu playing in his mind. Matters he couldn't discuss with Anakin. Not yet at least.

"I don't know." He averted the younger man's gaze. "I...guess forgot how complicated all of this was. Our year long retreat to Arda to blame." Obi-Wan offered and Anakin smirked. Seeming to agree with his old Master.

"Yeah. Strange how it gives you a little perspective. Everything is so much...bigger."

"Like a mountain made of pure politics."

"I think a maze is more appropriate." Anakin offered Obi-Wan. Who could only nod in agreement.

"Oh, another thing, Master." Obi-Wan turned.

"I don't think you're gonna like this part." Anakin murmured more to himself, but Obi-Wan remained watching him. Silently prompting him to go on. To which the younger Jedi sighed.

"The Chancellor is going to use his new powers to request...or suppose assert that the Council make me a member of the body." Anakin offered standing full height and turning to Obi-Wan.

"What?!"

"Yes." Anakin nodded. "He told me himself. He...wants me to act as his personal representative on the Jedi Council. He said he was going to inform the Council either tonight, which I assume would be late tonight. Or, tomorrow. For which, I assume we'll be having a meeting for."

"Assumptions need not be made! I assure you the Council will meet on this matter, Anakin!" Obi-Wan scoffed lightly. His head shaking and eyes averting as the image of Palpatine's face came to mid. The longer this war went on, the longer that man remained in power, the more Obi-Wan came to dislike him. More importantly, distrust him.

"I'm sorry, Master." Obi-Wan threw both hands out and up before planting them back on the rail.

"It's not your fault, Anakin. It's not you I am...irritated with." The Master sighed. Loosening his agitation and anger into the Force.

"I know..." Anakin trailed off rejoining Obi-Wan in stance. "I was going to let him make the announcement, or message. Whatever he was going to do to announce it, but I figured letting you know beforehand may be more welcome. Prepare you for the meeting, and you know, not blindside you?"

"Appreciated, Anakin. It is. I just can't believe the...the gall of that man! Mind you I am well aware of your friendship and feelings on the matter. I just cannot ever fathom such a thing being demanded of the Order before him. Conflict or no conflict the State imposing on the Order rules or adherence to how we should act where and with whom!" Obi-Wan again released himself into the Force. Closing his eyes and steadying his breath. "I am sure this will cause a stir among those on the Council who are...less inclined to feel warmth towards Palpatine."

"I don't doubt it." Anakin offered. Obi-Wan sensing little in the way of how Anakin felt on the matter. His old padawan doing a more admirable job than ever at hiding his feelings. Well, at least on this matter. An undercurrent of angst, and agitation mingled with many other assorted thoughts and emotions bubbled within his friend. Though, if Anakin was still unwilling to bring up for what and why, Obi-Wan remained resolved to not prod...for now.

"Well," Obi-Wan began again. "Do be sure to come before the Council when you're called, Anakin. With this sort of thing the last thing you want to do is come off as though you're in defiance of the Council. And," Again, Obi-Wan raised a preemptively silencing hand. "Before you say you're not going to be or trying to be, I say this just to remind you. The Council can often times be stiff, and doctrinal. You know this, and even I know it. However, this is sensitive, as I'm sure you know. So, please Anakin, just...just be timely, be courteous, and be calm. Let me see what I can do to ease things over." Anakin nodded through his Master's little speech. Blue eyes shifting away lost in some thought.

"I understand, Master."

"Thank you." Obi-Wan pat Anakin's shoulder. A smile on his bearded face.

Be it an earnest relent, or merely the tired state Anakin was in, Obi-Wan wasn't taking the amiable attitude for granted.

"I think our friends inside will definitely wanna get out of this place tomorrow." Anakin began.

"No doubt." Obi-Wan agreed. "I think when all the many meetings of the morning you and I are sure to sit through are over...if they happen tomorrow..." Obi-Wan thought aloud as he considered how the deliberation may go. "In any case, tomorrow perhaps I or we together can give a tour of the Temple?"

"Sure! I wouldn't mind showing them around." Anakin beamed a smile to which Obi-Wan chuckled and again pat his shoulder.

"Great! I'll make any necessary arrangements. As for you," Obi-Wan turned to Anakin. "You should head...to wherever you're slumming these days, and get some actual rest."

"'Slumming?'" Anakin cocked his brow. "I'll have you know the only slumming I've done has been with this old hermit I know. Maybe you do as well? Old, graying, wears the same old cloaks everywhere he goes?"

"Ha ha, very funny." Obi-Wan joined Anakin in an earnest, and relieving chuckle. The two standing by happily as the evening loomed.

---

The flaring of orange hues mingled in the dim red of the beating heart of flame illuminated feminine features. The usually dark eyes were burning with an unnatural manner. A slit dark pupil and flaming contortion of swirled hues wrapping about it. Sauron stared into the metallic cauldron that was already charred black by the first uses of this table, this device. The low bubbling of molten metals sounded in the ears he wore. He closed his eyes remembering the times he crafted the One, and the ring he now bore upon the shared hand he also wore. The metal lowly bubbled and sloshed about the cauldron seemingly made of metal, but lined in rock. A shield protected his face and flesh though truly he had no real use of it.

A content sigh loosens from his nostrils. They flowed in a sort of satisfaction that showed a thin smile along Vica's features. The madwoman's mind having gone silent, as Sauron was sure she had faded into her mental sleep once again. Either that or she had learned how to hide herself quite well. An admirable feat, but the Dark Lord doubted that was the case. Regardless of her, Sauron smiled thinly on. Eyes alight in the molten fire, and the enraptured glory of creation.

He whispered. The voice feminine, coiled around it, and inaudible but for the percussion of the winds a deep voice layered atop the softer. These words were spoken low into the fire from above. The metal sung a little brighter. The natural aspects of the world, all things made of the 'earth' as one may say. Be it metal or tree, rock or barrel. All things hummed at his voice. Awakening to the sound of an ancient tongue perhaps never heard before. The walls shivered and the glass thrummed, but most importantly the metal seethed and sizzled beneath. The table, and all its contraptions of this 'modern' world shook, but it was not the target for the word's of this maia. Sauron, pushed down a lever, and the metals churned a bit faster not by the power of his hand, but by the spin of a dense metal he had no experience with, but that which could sustain the intense molten heat.

His unnatural eyes dazing into the swirling flame the Dark Lord then continued on practicing as he had for many a day now. Deep did he delve himself, and that of his spirit into this Force. The shared body remains standing, and the eyes close. The world around him fades away and he extends outward once more. The endless torrent and undulation of the masses moving throughout this world. Pain, anger, happiness, mirth, lust, and love. Mingled and tearing at one another.

Each thing a ripple in the great sea of being that was here in the Force...that was the Force. It indeed bound everything up, as the witch had told him. It yearned for life, and it seemed to grow out from it. Even these beings, faceless, nameless, here in the Force, but he could 'see.' The maia saw the Force ebb from them, as waters against a shore, but they rippled outward from the shore. Not inward, but those binds he had noted before connected all things. Tendrils of will and of connection that strengthened one to another. Making one's being stronger in relation to another in that way. A husband to a wife; the Force swirled about them, and often it was not love the Dark Lord found, but disdain, dismay, anger, resentment, and lust. Though often directed outwards. As was the fickle nature of sentient beings and their loins, but this mattered not to him. What did matter was the connection. The twine, or the chain that bound one up to another. It fed on the rippling emotions often, but other times it was singing strong and loud in the temperate peace of another.

Sauron learned much of the Force, and his own powers returned to him a little more by the passing of the days. Mingled together he felt his spirit grow stronger, more resilient. Though he began to realize it was dependent on his connection to the witch. For which he would need remain in account of. Until such a time would come where he could find freedom. Perhaps coexistence would be possible? Only time would tell, and he came to understand even he could not see all ends as wise as he was.

There was a growing thread. One between his spirit and that of another. Locked deep away and still unconscious. Body wasting, but locked in the depths of their own mind, a single Jedi remain. One of these fearless warriors lost in the dark, but for the thundering flame deep within that whispered. The cage she remained locked about her mind, had worn down through the days. Her anguished spirit was tormented and all previously built up feeling of self, and of matter and importance was whipped. Beaten and burned until all that remained was a husk. Though he was not there just yet. Indeed he did not torment her with the memory of her pains endured, nor the inevitable imposition of his will. Instead he wrapped his being in the binding chain between them. Coiled his darkened spirit as a thing of smoke containing his great flame. The thread, that tether that made them bound up together via this Force, hardened and burned hot so that her body and mind afar jolted as one. Back going rigid, for he could see it within his mind as though he were there in person. A breath loosened her cracked and dried lips, and spine went as a metal stake against the pipe that bound her hands. Hands trembled and scratched at her itching and cut wrists caked in dried blood and old scars of unconscious movements made against the binds.

Tears hot and bitter fell down dirtied face, and he said not a word, nor invaded mind, or imposed self. Yet, the Force within her felt their connection. By its very nature, a spirit of the maiar howled of fire, and the Force strengthened their connection as a leader to a follower. Without conscious mind or effort it was beginning to understand it could not withstand this fight.

For now though Sauron retreated, and her body fell over once more trapped as it was by him. These Jedi did not impress him so. Their beings were strong, their bodies as well, but their spirits could be battered and broken much as any man or elf. He would see to it that his experimentation gave him truth and knowledge in the matter of how such things are. For, he portended it would be of great use to him in time to come.

For, Sauron could feel something else. Something happening...a tremor almost, or a disturbance. This Force sung familiar songs. That was the only way the Dark Lord could describe it. Whispers of the world he knew. Of Arda. They trickled to him, but often he could not find the source. Yet, he knew he was not going mad with delusions of time since past. He would only hear these echoes and disturbances when delved within the Force. These same residual tremors came from those he recognized who had been touched by Arda. The wizard he seethed at who was upon this world. Even the witch to a far lesser extent. Something out there...in the great unknown of this world, this world in particular was happening, and it concerned Arda. It came not from the host from Arda, so far as he could 'sense.' It came not from Palpatine though he could intuit without the Force, that man's mind was ever on Arda. No, someone somewhere on this world was set upon Arda, and he did not know whom. Considering such a thing was not yet ubiquitous about all the people of this world; at least not vastly known among them, had to mean someone went out of their way to learn of his homeworld. Someone with keen eye and need of it. The Dark Lord would be sure to track that feeling. Sense out and find whomever it was, and see as to what it was that plagued them. For now though, for now he had another matter in need of attending to.

The vacancy of his eyes; always alive in their unnatural fire, returned to a state of liveliness. His mind returning to his body and the blistering orange and reddish hues of the cauldron before him. The room fluttered with the sounds of molten metals bubbling and brewing under. Steam vented through a tubing duct placed into the walls and out into the cold high winds of Coruscant beyond. The Dark Lord pressed his thumb into a small button and the cauldron ceased churning the magma.

"Tinc-gleina, brassen innas, minai na-balch!" The voice of the witch carried his words ever with the undulation of his own deepened cadence. The metal held within the confines of the metal, rock, and guarding encasement flared. Magma swirled and rose about the center of the cauldron as a vortex of impending doom. Eyes lit, and crept along the features of their bearer came a darkened smirk.

Another button pressed upon and the cauldron was blasted in an instant from adjoining tubes set within. Cold air exhausted itself within, and the magma fell back downward as the room thrummed again in unnatural power. The Dark Lord opened the cauldron's protective casing and then it tilted and the cooled magma flowed along a causeway of metal into a previously made incision of stone and metal work. Bored into them circles, meant for rings of gaudy necessity for those who felt inclined to flaunt power and wealth. They were now to be used for a greater purpose. It filled him with vigor, and the Force as well seemed to bound within him more alight, and with harsher thrash through the whole of the room.

For, the magma filled one circle and through small tears between the rock and metal into another, and another until the Dark Lord had four ring plots filled with churning burning metal. Using the Force, Sauron circled each within their defining binds and made them symmetrical and perfect. As was the need of all things to be given order, and Sauron was content. The Force flew across the metal and with a hiss of heat and steam beading small droplets of sweat to his burrowed brow, Sauron cooled these newly crafted things of power. His current ring, Mírëlanya, it burned hot and brighter than normal from across the witch's hand. Sauron eyed it and felt the lips he bore twitch in happiness. A scornful mirth was filling his heart, the heart of his spirit. The witch stirred within him, and the Force groaned about him circling him and spreading outward.

"Perfect." He intoned through the witch's lips. The bands still hot though they had cooled immensely, Sauron used the Force, and cooled them even further. It was then the solidification began in earnest to the base of the rings forms. Then, the Force raised them upwards into the air and they swirled about one another as leafs cast to the winds of Lindon. Sauron outstretched his hand, and planted his palm upward to the ceiling, underneath the spinning rings, and he let their visage dance within the dark slits of his eyes. Hot they burned still, and freely they flew about. Power thrummed easily and silently off of each. They thrummed, and awoke, as a new thing birthed into creation. His words, and his being imposing upon them that which they had not naturally held prior. For just a moment he did wonder if old Aulë would be impressed by how much ease his once loyal attendant now made such things and crafts. Though such a thing was quick to fade from mind. Such a thing was meaningless to him now.

The four danced about the air for a moment longer until, Sauron set his eyes to one of the four.

"You." He spoke, and that ring came before him further as the other three fell back into their holsters to slowly cool. Outstretching his other hand, a chisel and hammer came to it and the Force kept the Ring set in the air ahead of him as the Dark Lord grasped both in his two waiting hands. Setting chisel to the hot metal, Sauron threw back the hammer, and with a beating adrenaline in the body he wore, he slammed downward! The clang of the hammer meeting the chisel as it cracked into the perfect simple ring sung through the room! The Force crackled and thrashed, and the winds in the apartment growled. Again the hammer stroke fell. Again the room creaked, and again the Force bristled. The eyes of the maker were wide, and Sauron felt the witch inside stir awake in full. Her spiritual presence awake, and alive, but even as he slammed hammer to chisel again, and again, she said nothing. Be it for rebellion of his acts and actions, or lack of words to say, he knew not.

Throughout the evening and carried deep into the night Sauron would thrash this metal. His being, his spirit and presence imposing more onto it, as words were uttered. Low and unheard ever upon a world such as this. The metal would crack, and clang and turn and bend. Until he would have it the way it need be, or how it must be. The Force and his own powers trembling for the birth of what it was.

Another ring of power.

---

Twisting away in the deep and dark of a nameless forgotten room the Jedi's body remained limp. Mouth slightly ajar, lips cracked and dry, ligaments in her shoulders and arms wearing and pulled. A haze and power put upon her mind. Legs set ahead of her and black hair dirtied and matted in the roaming dust of the dingy metal cell of a room she had been abandoned in. Pelted and prodded by a power from afar and beyond her own imaginings. It assailed and often pain; excruciating as it was, would be born anew about her mind. Coming then as a shadowed memory crawling across her body, it would manifest there throughout her body. Wakened, or in the deepest of sleeps she would feel, and body would flail. A terrible light burned in her mind's eye, and it bore about itself a terrible vision. A darkened being, a creature in the visage of a man, racked in rows of metal and armor, silent in disdain that seemed to permeate and thrive in abundance stared with smoldering eyes of white flame. About this dark figure, orange tendrils of further flame roared and he...it became that of a Great Eye.

Recede as she did, seethe and protest, and roar in retaliation when it came to her as she might it made little difference. A deep and thrumming laugh would escape unseen maw and encase her therein. The pain would return and the solace of training, the knowledge of the light bound up and making up the Force gave little comfort. Its caress seeming further away from her, and pain all consuming. Thoughts soon began entering her un-woke mind. Thoughts she could no longer determine the origin of. She had before, or so she thought. No more could she even guess, for they came upon her as a mist from some high mountain and she was but a slope. No...such analogies were strange. She did not remember thinking in such a manner before. Had she? Her thoughts flew as wind across a field of thickets and...no! She could not think! Yet, when she did those thoughts came! A heat rose inside of her! A fire of wrath and ruin, a snaking need to impose and be imposed unto others!

Her waking body trembled, and lips creased. Teeth were bared and a gruff throaty snarl loosed from her dried throat. Hands twisted inwards and fingers bore into her already scarred flesh. One leg thrashed and the metal beam holding her clanked as it scraped against her form. The imposition of her thoughts made her body twist about. The need of her memories gave rise to a new sensation, and gone soon was the pain. For, when it was that the heat of rage filled her veins, and muscles tensed in the release of anger, the pain would subside. No more did the Great Eye impose the memory and reality of endless suffering, and instead it became a blinding thing of will. Her hands, within the depths of hidden mind, would reach out, and tears would fall across her cheeks within and without her dreams. A yearning rose about her, and a need to be free. To end such suffering. For, it felt as thought it had been a life age she had come to endure such misery. An age...a great many years of memory. She felt tired, but then alight and alive when relent came. Too long had she allowed herself to wallow in the misery of her own refusal to the Eye.

Serra Keto opened her eyes. The darkness of the room she had been chained within did not hide the truth of her being. Dark blue eyes now shone with the faint glimmer of gold set about them. A warbling undercurrent beneath the surface of the sea. Yet, embedded about such golden hue was a thrashing tinge of fire. The fire prickled but soon faded into nothingness.

Silent she rose to a stand, bones and muscles no longer of mind even as they ached, for the freedom she felt from the pain of her mind's own misery brought to her face a widened smirk. She spoke not a word as she stood and leaned her head back into the metal behind her, exposing her neck to the cold air. She breathed the freeing air and the Force timidly circled around her, and flowed into and out of her. Closing her eyes again she was not free, but she no longer felt the unbearable pain of the fire any longer. She closed her eyes, and saw Him with her mind's eye. A vision of perpetual presence. A silent desire from the depths of her soul screamed to resist, and her teeth ground wordless as another tear fell across her cheek as she sought to fight, but could not.

For, when she again looked to the dark of the room she saw Him still. With her waking eyes. There was no escape from the gaze of the Great Eye.

---

"...in summation, I would call our meeting very productive, my Lady." Koll finished detailing his and Prince Amathir's visit with their new allies in Umbar. The young Lady Sipillona quietly observed and listened to his recollection and plotted schemes thus far. Small questions, quiet mumbling hums littered throughout his report. His usual nervousness when dealing with his haughty young benefactor itching at the back of his neck. Nervously waiting her pleasure or disdain. She hadn't even bothered to make mention of the battle over Coruscant the Delegate knew to have occurred. She was one laser focused shrew, if he could say nothing else of her.

"These pretenders, Lady Amdirniel and her son Mahalmion, do they seem worthwhile allies in helping turn Arda to our own ends?" She asked.

"I would imagine so, my Lady. I cannot say for sure that the effects of their strikes on Gondorian harbors will produce immediate results. However, with enough time and enough negative leverage levied against a barely stable Kingdom, the King can be brought to greater reason." Taruk chuckled. Well he forced one. "I may not have known or estimated this Elessar correctly at first. I do, however, know that Kings and other such monarchs and despots would surely do whatever is necessary to maintain their hold on power once achieved. Now that he has power, and his throne, let him fight to maintain it I say." Koll offered leaning back into his seat, clasping his hands together. Careful to choose his words in such a manner to please young Arsuna.

"Perhaps, but your own judgment has proven faulty before, Koll." She coolly snapped back. Taruk in kind frowned, but remained quiet. "Follow through with this Amdirniel, Mahalmion and our friend the Prince. However, that does not mean you get to ignore the other options presented us."

"Meaning?" Koll asked.

"These Easterlings you spoke of. Clearly they would be of use to us, and this plot forming to the south of Gondor. Am I not correct?"

"Yes well…" Taruk trailed off momentarily. "Prince Amathir, as I mentioned before, as well as the Lady Amdirniel have begun sending 'feelers' into Rhûn. From what I have been able to gleam, and from what Amathir has told me there is a bit of instability out there."

"In what manner?" Arsuna narrowed her gaze. Her form morphing about the blue of the holo-projection. Taruk raised his arms out.

"Unsure. Beyond the fact that their unifying monarch, an Emperor, seems to have died at the very end of the last war here. The sons of this man have since fallen into disunity. That is about all I can understand from the mess."

"Surely one or two can be persuaded to join into this alliance you've dutifully formed?" Arsuna coolly offered. Taruk rubbed his hand across his brow loosening a small grumble. Especially when she put things like that. Made him feel more...insidious.

"That is very likely so. Amdirniel made it quite clear she was in contact with people in the East. However, I was not given any exact details. Only that a suitable new throne holder would be of preference to the whole of the East. In that regard I can suppose that the Lady has some strong personal friendships or alliances in the East to fall back on. Otherwise, Prince Amathir is attempting to cement greater relations on his own. Or, more likely he is utilizing Lady Amdirniel's contacts to orchestrate a more concrete alliance. Though I have left such matters to those two. I am, after all, the silent partner in this whole affair." Arsuna remained silent in contemplation for a moment. The young woman tapping fingers to her chin thoughtfully.

"Silent indeed." She began with. Oddly seeming pointed and accusatory. Though Taruk had long since learned to let the haughty tone of this little schutta go most of the time.

"You promised them financial backing. Therefore, I assume you'll need some of it soon." Taruk nodded to her.

"Yes, sooner rather than later, my Lady. The tradable currency on this planet is very simple. Precious metals and gems. I believe a substantial exchange of credit currency for such goods would be more than useful here. Though I am loathe to suggest or ask you to-"

"Save it, Koll." She cut him off with a snap and seethe of her voice.

"I want that charter signed! My family and my father's company have fully invested too much into you and this planet to let any further speculative investment get in the way. I will have several million credits exchanged through one of the Mid-Rim branches. I don't want that money anywhere near me, or my family, Koll. Pure gold, silver and other undefined and unmarked gemstones will be transferred to your shared account. Be sure to have it funneled planetside in your oh so quiet means and manner. Be sure to hide the transfer for me, and don't kark this up."

"I will be sure to bribe in the utmost diligence, my Lady." Taruk offered a sarcastic smile and tip of his head. Allowing himself a modicum of defiance to his young benefactor. For her part Arsuna sneered.

"Be sure you do. The faster that charter is signed, the better off your chances at retaining any sort of social standing are." She ended their connection there. Admittedly it did rebuke any defiance Taruk had held, and he fell back into his seat.

The Delegate, turned grand co-conspirator sighed and sat in the silence of his stone office. It was a bit of a long and complicated matter all things considered. However, he did believe that their chances, all of them, in either forcing Elessar's hand...or removal were quite good. Taruk was no wisher of doom and death on a person or people. He was a politician! What he wanted was acquiescence. Alas, he thought. If such things were needed to unhinge the stubbornness of this backwards King well...so be it.

---

Night had fallen upon this strange world once again. The dark of the skies was thrashed against by the unwavering sea of lights from the ground. Even from a place such as Minas Tirith such was not possible. Not since the days of old in Beleriand perhaps, and within Aman had such light pervaded the night skies. Yet, with machines and power of industry...fields with which those like Sauron and Saruman held domain, these assorted folk had mastered the night and turned it into but a fleeting bout of hours. Gandalf leaned back into the cool metallic seat set upon the equally metallic balcony that overlooked so vast a world. So high he could not see the soil laden ground deep in the cavernous depths of metal unseen. Its only clue to existence being the deep continuation of lights down into the depths of the world when one peered over the edge of the railing. The skies filtered in streams of these 'speeders' which carried folk as horses did the men of Arda. Faster, larger, louder, and leaving a certain smell about the air when they traveled near. Indeed this Coruscant was a loud world, but there was something here that Gandalf had seen in other places about Arda. There was life here. Bound up in it all the good and ill born of it. And, though he perceived some among his Company, namely the Lady Tauriel, to find this world in ways contemptible he knew it was merely because of her nature.

His aged eyes dazed into the distance. His being centered within himself and feelings from so far away entered him. Whispers of voices from a distant unseen shore. Whispering to him of his need to be as ambassador to these folk. To be as he was before, and continue on. Though the wizard did miss the green country of the Shire, and his mind fell oft to dear Frodo and Sam recovering within their holes in the ground.

A smile then crept onto his features and in that he was content and happy for his young little friends. Even for one so scarred as dear Frodo. Alas, his mind and person need be here and now. Though he did miss the Shire, and the continent in the far west of Arda beyond the sailing abilities of Men, he did find such wonders to be discovered in so vast a sea of worlds as this 'galaxy' far too intriguing to let pass him by. Even for one as old as he, there was much left to see and discover, and it was a thing he would not let so easily leave him unfulfilled.

Though, the wizard did have a sensation prickle at his senses within the sight about his mind. An echoing of some dark foreboding that lingered in the corners of all sensation. The sights and sounds, the scenes of warfare he had been party to back upon Arda, and even more so here had been disturbing. Yet, that alone did not account for the feeling and thoughts that scratched at him. There was something...sick about this world and the people on it. It reminded him of the darkest of corners hidden throughout Middle-Earth. He was sure there was evil here. Evil in the small ways it seeks to ever make a foothold in the minds and hearts of all folk. Yet, there was a driving force deeply entrenched. A tentacled mass from which darkness stretched from. So, he believed, and Gandalf did believe the Lady Galadriel had felt the same though they had not spoke on the matter directly. Even if his analogy was not the perfect fit for what he felt, and what he perceived, there was a rot here, and he feared for his friends. The thoughts of his Jedi friend, his fears swirled about his mind, and the wizard wondered if these Jedi could perceive what he had. A darkness swelling. Something happening. He certainly hoped so, and wholeheartedly felt inclined to help young Anakin and Obi-Wan should he be able to.

"Gandalf?" The White Wizard turned his head. The glass doorway had slid open with barely a hiss, and out came Pippin. The hobbit wearing a simple black tunic and set of trousers fit for relaxation.

"Ah, Pippin my lad, come!" Gandalf offered and brought his pipe back to his mouth. Stoking the small fire set to the pipe weed with a puff of air.

"It sure is colder out here. Reminds me a bit of Minas Tirith. Closer ya' are to the sky I suppose the colder it gets!" Pippin offered rubbing his small hands together with a laugh. Gandalf chuckled and nodded.

"I do believe you're on to something there, my boy." He and the hobbit shared a chuckle as Pippin moved closer to the rail. Only managing to grab onto the lower bars and peek his eyes up over the railing. In many ways Gandalf saw some of that Tookish he had long ago seen in Bilbo Baggins in Pippin. Well...perhaps a lot more Tookish than in dear Bilbo. Though he supposed it was why he did like Pippin quite a bit. Perhaps no more or no less than any of his other little hobbits. However, Pippin's Tookishness certainly was of prime cause to his own qualities. That brought a smile to Gandalf's face.

"This erm…'planet' is quite strange, isn't it Gandalf?"

"Very much so, Pippin my lad." Gandalf nodded. "Though I was just contemplating such. I'm sure it has its qualities."

"Oh aye! I don't mean to say it doesn't. I haven't even seen most of it...or even a little! I do hope I do though. It'd be quite fun an experience I think. Plenty to share with Frodo, and Sam. Oh and Aragorn and Legolas of course." The hobbit smirked turning back to Gandalf before setting eyes back onto the incredibly strange and bright night skyline.

"Something troubling you, Pippin?" Gandalf asked from where he sat.

"Troubling? No I don't think so. Well...I suppose I've been thinking about the battle we saw. It was so...loud. Hot, fiery, the sounds of it. It reminded me of Minas Tirith...and the Black Gate. Only...louder, meaner." The hobbit's voice lowered. "Darker."

"As time passes and things change, so too do things we think about, or hope to think about less. One cannot see a changing in the world and expect clothing to remain the same. Or armor, or ships, and especially not war. It is a sad thing, Peregrin Took, that war and battle do not cease simply by innovation. Indeed war is a great innovator among both Men and Elves alike. Not to mention the Orcs." Gandalf related and saw the curled back of Pippin's head nod.

"I suppose I hadn't thought about what it would look like. For them I mean." Pippin pulled away from the rails and nudged his head outwards. Gandalf understanding his meaning, nonetheless.

"We saw a taste of it upon Pelennor and before the Black Gate. Though it was but a glimpse. The full breadth of war for our Jedi friends is far more stark than we had first imagined."

"Aye, but it's stranger still! The machine men, machine flying monsters, and some carrying Men like those in the white armor who serve with Anakin and Obi-Wan! They all look and sound a lot alike!"

"That they do." Gandalf nodded again. The hobbit came over and lifted himself onto a seat next to Gandalf with a huff of air. His hairy hobbit feet dangling over the seat as Pippin laid his head into the palms of his hands against the chair.

"Do you think we can help in any way, Gandalf? After all, they did help us." The wizard remained silent. Even as Pippin turned and fixed his eyes onto him. His mouth puffed over the end of his pipe and Gandalf stared into the distance once more. Watching a trailing endless line of speeders move through the sky.

"Gandalf?" Pippin called, but the wizard still took a moment to think. Pippin watching him, prodding him from beside. Honestly, he did not know. It was a strange new reality for him, for all of them. He was unsure if they held the necessary tool to affect much change in so vast a field as this. Assuredly, Gandalf did not feel hope drain from him. It was that the perils of this world, and seemingly uncounted others were of a matter and of a war far beyond him. Bearing weight onto the hearts and minds of many millions, and millions of folk. Living and un-living things fighting and killing. It would seem a poor trade indeed should they happily take the aid given of and by their Jedi comrades. To then only do nothing in turn but make happy treaty of spirit with them. Yet, it was not his place to play representative for Aragorn, or any among the mortal races. He did represent the Powers. However, even they had not made the matter clear on what they wished to learn or do with this new reality they all of them found themselves steeped within.

"I should think, and I do believe we will do what we can, however we can, Peregrin Took." Gandalf finally offered puffing more smoke free of his mouth from a drag of his pipe. The hobbit traced his elder features before smiling and nodding happily.

"I should think so as well! It'd be nice to help them if I can. If we can!" Gandalf smiled and shook his head. A low sort of grunting chuckle passing his lips. A memory of another hobbit and a seemingly unlucky group of dwarves on a mountainside. Another hobbit promising to do what he could then.

"Hobbits." Gandalf laughed.

"What?"

"Nothing, Pippin lad. Nothing at all." The White Wizard chuckled on. The hobbit clueless, and happily so, as to why.

---

(…)

Words and whispers had been passed from one man and woman onto the next. Hushed murmurs come from the west had made their way to the Gap of Rohan and the West-March. Soon tales were spoken in the West Fold. Not yet risen once more following the War of the Ring and the scouring incurred upon it by Saruman. Heralds from Edoras had been sent by the new King, Éomer. Whispers had been spoken in the time of the war. All in the years leading up to the corruption of his uncle the since slain and honored King Théoden. The King had been healed of his hopelessness and the corrupt control induced by Saruman. This, however, led to any such whispers and fell rumors to be met with greater attention.

None could speak of for sure what it was that had come from the west. Only that some days ago a loud storm, crackling and thrashing in a whirl of winds had been seen from the coasts of the west. Disorganized folk who lived on the western shores of Middle-Earth, who paid no mind to kings of Men, Elves or Dwarves, but whom sold their fish and crop had spoken of what had been seen. Thunderous horns had been heard off the shore. Fishermen dared not take their boats or ships further from the shore than need be. The air had been hot and cool. Rain falling down into the sea as the winds whirled and cast waves to the rocks.

The fishermen spoke of it coming to the land. This great storm. It rumbled and past overhead, but swept so quickly that many a man and woman dove and hid from the wrath of thunderous lightning and wailing winds. The speed of the gusts carried it further inland, but the storm did not cease, nor did it pass. It did not wain in power, but remained firm and unchanged. Dark clouds were these. Full of power. They moved upwards into the highest reaches of the skies and seemed layered. As a great mouth of clouds seeking to eat the world underneath. The sun could not penetrate such dark clouds, but the light remained when day stood, but this would lead to eerie a scene. So they said at least.

Birds and beasts of the land had seemed uneasy by the coming of the storm. Ears rose, caws and howls were heard, and what few roaming packs of wargs and wolves were left hidden in the forests and hills of Eregion howled at the passing rains. Hare and horse, dog and deer whined and whimpered, but most did not run. Merely bowed and crept away at the sound. For, some echoed what the fishermen had said. A horn could be heard of sorts. Some sound that ached and pierced the ear. At worst it was deafening and at best it was a song heralded from the high reaches of the unseen clouds above as they circled overhead moving further eastwards. So, it was told by wayward travelers that soon enough the storm would be upon Rohan, and word had reached the King of such. Though he did not immediately believe in such a tale, he knew not to ignore it, and as such sent riders to make haste and be on watch for any such sight.

The sound of ten sets of horses hooves thrashing the ground underneath sounded across the fields. The high green banner bearing the white horse of Rohan stood firm and high and held aloft by the banner bearer. Their helms gleamed and glinted in the daylight pressing upon them. Though the spring was upon them cool air seemed to be prevalent of late, and swept over these riders as they crashed the hooves of their mounts under them.

None of them had been sure to the importance of their task set before them by the King. Yet, none of them were tasked with the need to question the needs of the King, and thus had not done so. They had all of them come to see their share of fell things. Upon the fields of Pelennor, and before the Black Gate. They had rode with King Théoden, and then Éomer when he had been Regent and now King himself. They knew not to question the importance of their needs. Especially in times such as these when all dark things were hidden in the darkest places deep in the mountains and tunnels of the Earth. It was best they remain vigilant of even the barest sign of evil. Though none of these men would dare to question the one who led them now. Tall and broad was he, bearing a mighty red shield. The elder and rugged Marshal of the West-Mark himself, Erkenbrand.

"Hold!" The Marshal howled raising up his right hand. His horse came to a sudden neigh and jeer, but stopped. Followed by the commanding and experienced similar manner of his men.

"Marshal?" His Captain, Durnbrand came up beside him. For his part Erkenbrand set piercing gaze to the east. The horsemen were gathered on a small hill overlooking the yellowed fields of the West-March. Patches of green had set in and the spring was taking full hold here, but the dampness of the grass had been felt for many a mile. The Marshal swept in a long drag of the air about them and grumbled to himself.

"Rain has been through here. A heavy rain."

"Aye," Began Durnbrand. "The fields are soaked. It should mean fair crop of these lands come time to pick." Erkenbrand nodded but paid little mind as he cast eye to the east.

"Rains here are expected, but not to this degree. Pools fill pits in the land, and many a tree are missing branch, or have been upturned entirely." The Marshal intoned.

"True, my Lord. Though it is not unreasonable to imagine the rains to be sound and plenty at this time in the year."

"Aye, aye." The elder Erkenbrand nodded. Though clearly his attention was placed elsewhere. The other men among them silently and diligently waiting for the next move and order.

In the silence a sudden sound came upon them all. The Marshal's head whipped eastward and so too did that of all their men. It was the sound of thunder and it roared as a great beast from afar. The skies deeper into the heart of Rohan were clear, save for patches of white clouds hung high in the sky. The rumble, however, had echoed and all ears had traced its origin.

"Northeast I would say." The Captain intuited with set eyes.

"Yet, not a blackened cloud to be seen." Erkenbrand intoned back to Durnbrand. The Captain had to nod, and the mood was in an instant shifted to one of confusion and anxiety.

"My Lord, do you believe the rumors? That there is a...living storm come from the western seas?" The Captain asked with no hidden show of concern.

"I don't know." Erkenbrand replied honestly. "However, we have seen the unnatural powers shown by those beyond our understanding. I would not be surprised if some power, or if someone could conjure a storm as that we are in search of. If such a storm, or such a conjurer should exist we would do well to find them. To learn of the nature, intent and meaning. As well if a danger is imposed upon us and the Kingdom."

"After our long struggle with Isengard and then Mordor, I dare not hope to find fell intent in any of this, my Lord."

"Alas, we must be sure, Captain." Erkenbrand intoned as yet another distant and unseen rumble echoed in all ears. The horses all seemed to give whine and neigh, but for the comfort of their masters they did not turn and run.

"That for certain came from the northeast. Near the Fords of Isen." Erkenbrand announced as Durnbrand controlled his horse and began again as well.

"If the storm moves nearer to Isengard then perhaps the ents have seen or heard it?"

"Aye. We should do well to ask kindly of the ents, and perhaps Treebeard himself if such an endless storm had assailed them. Grimthwaith!" The Marshal called up their fastest rider whose horse trotted up beside them.

"Yes, my Lord?

"Make haste to Edoras and report we move to Isengard in search of this 'storm.' Take rest and return to us upon the Westemnet where the dip of hill meets rock. Have the King Éomer send messengers eastward if you can impose upon him."

"Aye, Lord!" The rider broke ranks and indeed his gray mare dashed eastward along the wide open plains towards the capitol.

"We move to Isengard!" Erkenbrand called and with a howl he gave gentle, but firm whip of the reins and his steed neighed before giving run under him. Followed by the stampede of his men behind him. A low thrum meeting their returned chase by unseen a storm. Thunder hidden in the northeast, and nearer the black tower of Orthanc. For all of Rohan, the Marshal did indeed hope it not to be of fell portend.

---

Deep into the night Anakin had finally managed to make it back to Padmé's apartment. The bags under his eyes had become more visible, and the weariness deep in his bones had worn him down. The battle seeming to weigh in on him now the further he got away from the action. As well, he had to contemplate and did realize he hadn't properly slept since Arda...still.

"Force." He groaned as he entered the apartment from a side entrance. Properly guarded as ever by Captain Typho. Honorable job he did, but unfortunately for the good Captain, Anakin knew how to hide his presence well enough. Typho, Anakin thought, probably knew what the situation was with him and Padmé, but the Captain never made mention of it, or seemed to impose his thoughts on the matter. Whether it was true or not, Anakin appreciated his...whatever one would call it.

"Ah, Master Anakin, sir!" Anakin was greeted by the ever pompous tone of his dear protocol droid. The golden shimmer of his plating showing even in the dark and dimly lit apartment.

"Threepio."

"Ah yes, Master Anakin, it is so good to see you! I have just managed to put the twins down to bed! They are quite an easy bunch to tend to. At least where human children are concerned." The droid's motionless features dipped as Threepio came to a stop and tilted back and forth.

"Oh? Well that's good. I suppose babies need a lot of sleep…"

"Oh yes, quite so, sir!" Threepio kindly answered quite rhetorical a question. Anakin shook his head, waving his hand over himself.

"Right. Well thanks Threepio. Is Padmé here?"

"Oh, yes sir. Last I saw she was in the lounge overlooking the balcony. Though I would caution you to keep your robes, sir. It is quite a chilly evening." Anakin smirked.

"Thanks Threepio. Why don't you go charge up."

"I should like to do so, Master Anakin! Do please come and find me should my services be required in tending to the children."

"Will do Threepio. Will do." Anakin gave a feigned salute as his protocol droid passed him by. Anakin made his way towards the lounge. The same spot he had come to find some solace following his nightmare the night prior. He did hope his dreams would let him sleep more peacefully this night. Considering what tomorrow was likely to bring...a whole new position! Finally a Master within the Jedi Order, and on the High Council! It did set alight a fire in him long since brewing. Even before the day when Qui-Gon and Padmé had come to Watto's shop. A slave boy of Tatooine, becoming a Jedi Master! It did make him nervous and excited. Though that was a common feeling for him these days.

"Padmé?" He greeted entering the open room. However, save for the sound of the small fountain nearby he saw no one. His brow creased, but a quick outreach of his senses and he felt her nearby. In the adjoining rooms. Likely with the twins...made sense, duh of course! He mused and smacked himself along the forehead. The brightness within the Force, a pure spot of light that filtered outwards from the three gathered so close was all but blinding! He did hope then in realization it wasn't so easily detectable by those beyond the walls of the apartment. It gave him mental pause to think on how to tend to that matter.

Nonetheless, he moved swiftly down the opposing hall from whence he had entered and came to the open doorway. Peeking inside and leaning himself into the doorway he was met by the back of his wife. She wore another of her many elegant gowns. This one dark, and obscured in color by the darkness of the room, but he could see her long wavy brown hair hung to her back cascading downward. Her presence, as ever, soothing him, and he took in a long draw of steadying breath. She cooed unheard to him as she leaned her lithe form across a cradle. Her soft words undoubtedly soothing the babes who slept beside her. Their presence was all just like their mother's. Soothing, but raw and uniquely youthful. He beamed a smile he felt was...prideful. Fatherly. At least he hoped so. Not having a father of his own he still felt...and likely would for a long time feel unsure how to do this. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan set good examples, but he did suppose his best example was in Palpatine. Ah, he had already been over this before in his own head. He was just thinking in circles. Damnable lack of sleep…

A sly smirk crossed his lips, however. With a dash of silent feet, he swept one arm quickly across and around his wife, and placed hand over mouth and the other to her hip. She sucked in a seethe at the sudden sensations and fear prickled through her body, as well as a primal protective sensation Anakin had never sensed before, but he knew well enough the reason for. He pulled her back against his chest and felt her body tense.

"You can breathe now, my love." He whispered into the top of her head through her hair. Feeling her relax and loosen a breath against the gloved metal hand pressed to her face, he could envision the deep dark eye roll she was gifting him. He let go of her face and turned her to him grasping both hands to her waist hidden just beneath the silk of her gown.

"You almost gave me a heart attack!" She seethed lowly, but her brown eyes, alight in a fury of love and playful wrath only brought a beaming grin to Anakin's face.

"Good thing I hadn't. Otherwise, you'd kill me." Their eyes met and deepened in their stare until she at last dropped the facade of anger and smiled back up to him.

"You idiot."

"Your idiot, my Lady." He whispered leaning into her. Their lips met again, and as before Anakin felt all pain, all fear, and all anxiety, even if but for a moment pass away from him. One hand crawled up her waist to the back of her neck deepening their kiss. Their lips playful with one another as her hands grasped at his face.

"Hmm, I missed you Padmé."

"You always miss me."

"Is that wrong of me?"

"It'd be wrong if you didn't." She cooed in the brief parting of their lips. They inevitably clashed once mroe quickly thereafter in mutual need and want. Her presence, the heat of her body driving him mad. The smell of her hair, everything about her. Just her.

"Hopefully your day was not as chaotic as mine." Anakin offered. Her eyes darted for but an instant. He knew that to be a sign she had been talking politics. He never asked, nor did he wanna know.

"It was interesting. Yours I can see was busy. Anything worth mentioning?"

"Hmm...a bit. Though perhaps another time? I'm tired." He begged of her, and luckily she smiled, and gave an understanding look.

"Regale me later then." Padmé conceded. He bowed his head in affirmative. Though he was excited to tell her about his unusual promotion for sure!

"Care to have a look?" She nudged her head over towards the twins. Anakin, for his part gave a nervous chuckle and nodded following her, standing beside her and looking over down into a crib with a divider.

"Twins usually are alright sleeping together. They're used to sharing space." She laughed lowly. Warmly gazing on their children with a kind of love he knew was beyond even him, and he was okay with that.

"The divider then?"

"Call it paranoia. Plus it's good for them to learn to be apart." Anakin nodded to that.

"The trouble these two will get into..."

"Oh? You seeing their future huh?" The moment she said it Anakin could tell she regretted it. Sensing trepidation flow from her. Undoubtedly from the nightmares he had bothered her with concerning them all. Anakin steeled himself though. Swearing not to show it affecting him. Instead he gave a curt laugh and passed her a beam. As though the reference meant nothing to him.

"Maybe." Anakin shrugged. "Though I was more thinking about the fact I know their parents. They're both bound to be troublemakers." She relaxed, and he felt good about himself for that.

"Oh? You're probably right. I hear their father is a big time war hero. Thinks he's a big shot most days."

"Yeah, and their mother? Don't even get me started." Anakin retorted easily.

"Oh?"

"Mmm hmm. Complete head case. Was a Queen of an entire planet. Fought off the Trade Federation, near single handed. Then became a Senator and tried to stop a big time war with all her wit. Didn't workout, but don't get on her bad side. When she wants to negotiate, she's a force to reckon with." They both teased one another, and both bore flushes to their faces eyes transfixed and absorbed in the union of the love shared in the room between themselves and cast outward onto the sleeping children.

"You're a miserable tease." She cooed as they pulled back into one another. Him, resting his forehead along her brow.

"So are you, my Lady." Gruff was his voice as he kissed her lips, down her cheek and onto her neck. She groaned against him, and Anakin found his hands trailing her. Desperate to feel her body on his. Her own soft calls and moans doing nothing but driving him mad.

"Ani...Ani!" She caught his attention. Barely managing to break through his fog of want just as he reached her shoulder. He pulled back.

"Huh? Oh, right!" He grimaced turning over shoulder to note the twins sleeping. Both had their sweet faces of youthful chubbiness bundled against with curled little hands.

"Control yourself you fiend." She swatted his shoulder, but grasped his right hand pulling him to the door.

"Now help me."

"Huh? Help you with what?" He intoned with furrowed brow.

"To get out of these clothes, laser brain."

"Oh!" Anakin cast a wide grin following his wife's lead from their children's room. His weariness from before seeming to have magically disappeared.

All seeming well in the life of the Skywalker family.

---

"With this all in mind, Master Arana, it falls to my decision making to choose suitable candidates to become members of the WatchCircle. While I have many candidates, and I have made several choices thus far I do feel it necessary to find fellow Masters willing and capable of being party to the Covenant."

"Is your telling me so much already a sort of quiet obligation on my part to join? Certainly if what you've said is true the Council wouldn't want you telling just anyone who may be a suitable contender to join your little Covenant?" The Master wondered aloud, and A'Sharad shrugged silently. Placing the small cup of tea he had been sipping along the circular table dividing himself and Master Koffi Arana. The morning light of Coruscant was streaming in through a large semi-ovular window to his right and many Jedi wandered the halls under them where they say upon an elevated perch meant for Jedi to sit, contemplate, and yes, eat food. It was early enough that not many Jedi were yet present, but a far off pair of young Jedi from himself and Master Arana.

"In a way you're right." A'Sharad admitted. "However, I don't tell just anyone whatever it is I'm proposing without having put at least some thought into the matter. Your name was on a list I received from a very...let's call them zealous Jedi Knight. They believe you'd be a willing participant in joining the Covenant and the WatchCircle ordained by the High Council to safeguard the Order's values. I tend to agree, Master. Not in any format one may see it in a negative light, mind you. Rather, I am familiar with your adherence and own personal reverence for the protection of the Order."

"Is that right?" Koffi replied. His own cup of tea rising to his lips as he tasted the hot brew prepared for them.

"I am under no delusions, Master Hett. I am not one would call a well known, or even much liked Jedi among the Order. I am a Master, and I earned my position thus. Though I am very content remaining a General of the Grand Army of the Republic, and as a silent but effective member of the Order and its needs. My choice in the matter seems to me more an act of fishing for membership than true desire to add my name onto a list of what is essentially a Jedi secret policing force."

"I am shocked you'd feel that way, Master." A'Sharad offered folding his fingers together atop the table.

"The Republic and the Order both have their heroes, Master Arana. I am under no delusions either. Some among the Order have more notoriety and that falls onto the needs of the public. The need to have your heroes, and I believe the Order is more than willing to offer up some among us as those heroes. Master Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker for sure, Master Ti in her own way, Master Windu in his and even Master Yoda. Great renown for great battles comes with its own kind of coverage. Especially from a populace that clings to figureheads in the struggle against the Separatists. Let us not ignore nor belittle the fact the Separatists too, have their heroes, and to their populations, or at least some of them, we are in fact the bad guys."

"Your point being, Master Hett?" Koffi pressed, cocking a curious glance.

"The Covenant, and the WatchCircle would be better served by finding those who are loyal and whose works have been good. Better still these men and women, and all which between, be of lesser known members of the Order. I require and want anyone who I feel can or should join the Covenant; as is my right to choose, to be those who are not well known by the public, or even by the Order. You fit that bill, and you're more than strict enough in your own personal beliefs in the righteousness of our Order. I would think you'd be more than willing to safeguard its principles by fellow Jedi who are wayward in their views. The Covenant, if I need reiterate my point, is not meant to damn all who have been led astray. Punish certainly those who have willfully disregarded our edicts and Code. However, it is my belief and mission to find those who have strayed the path and bring them back onto it. As I am I will need those of strict value and measure." A'Sharad leaned back into his seat and brought his cup back into his hands.

"So, I ask again; are you interested in joining the Covenant and the Temperance WatchCircle to the betterment of the Jedi Order? Or, are you not? If not then it would be in the best interest of not just myself, but the High Council including Masters Windu and Yoda that you never speak of this matter again." A'Sharad made no small warning and gave pointed look with his eyes as he sipped his tea. Master Arana eyed A'Sharad for a moment. His dark eyes bouncing up and over the younger Master's face, but A'Sharad was sure to display no emotion or thought outward, or through the Force. If he was to be the head of this thing then he would need to take its matters seriously. He had been entrusted with it by Masters Yoda and Windu, and the whole of the High Council, after all. He best live up to the trust they had obviously placed upon him, and not fail.

"I am intrigued by this let there be no doubt." Koffi began. "I had not imagined the Order to have been so ideologically led astray to require an Order within the Order to bring it back on track."

"We share that revelation. Yet, it is the Council that has said it is so, and they have tasked me with fixing it. Now I need those who will help me to fix it." A'Sharad prompted, and Koffi nodded.

"So it is." The Master rose from the seat opposite A'Sharad. Fixing his dark brown robes and sighing.

"My leave is temporary before I return to the front, Master Hett. However, if my services can be made use of for the Order here or there, then the Order has it. If I must be member to this cabal, then so be it. Whatever is needed I am available."

"That is a yes then." A'Sharad said, not asked. Master Arana nodded.

"It is. If the Order is in so dire a need then I will do what I am required to do. By the will of the High Council, and through your directive, Master Hett." A'Sharad smiled and bowed his head. No more need be said between them and Koffi took his leave. Allowing A'Sharad to sigh and lean back into his seat and stare out over Coruscant. He had to admit, the Knight Kolvori had been right. The young knight had read Master Arana pretty well to advise him to seek out his services. A'Sharad had not been immediately sure about it, but having spoken to him, and Master Arana was certainly no lovable bantha, A'Sharad could see what Kolvori had. Which also helped A'Sharad realize that Kolvori was quite well versed in his read of people. In this measure, and within the Covenant for their tasks such qualities would be absolutely necessary.

So, he sipped his tea again and pulled the datapad from his robes containing more names offered up by Kolvori. More Jedi, Kolvori at least, imagined would be more than willing to join into the Covenant and seek in healing what was a sick Order. With review and acceptance of all by Master Windu of course, but he doubted the Master would have issue with these choices. All to the betterment of the Order, after all.

---

"Presenting, our Lord the Chieftain of the Dúnedain, Heir of Elendil through his son Isildur, Lord of the House of Telcontar and High King of Gondor and Arnor, His Majesty Elessar Telcontar!" The Chamberlain announced and pounded a large gavel against the stone of the Great Hall. All the gathered Lords remained stood about one another with hands to their breasts atop their cloaks as they remained quiet. The footfalls of several booted feet sounded, and soon enough come from behind the great dais upon which the throne was sat, came into sight the King. He held aloft the hand of his Queen, the Lady Arwen Undómiel robed in a fine dark purple silken dress that fell along her figure and accentuated the darkness of her hair and light of her eyes. She cast all a graceful smile and dipped her head crowned with a circlet to the crowd as she curtsied and bade the King farewell. Where she soon left his side to join a gathered assortment of her ladies in waiting. She had not been announced to the meeting and thus would not be considered for official matters. Meanwhile, the Steward also came to the fore. The young Faramir, Captain and Steward of Gondor came to sight. Bowing his head draped in the dark regal tunic bearing the White Tree of Gondor. His hair fell about his face as he bowed his head and stood before the Steward's lower chair. Allowing the King to ascend the white staircase. He turned in stiff a manner and silently observed the hall. Taking his seat and draping his hands over the armrests with back firm to the rest and stood stiffly high, the King bowed his head to the Chamberlain.

"My Lords, the King will now hear any and all grievances you have brought to bare. As ever, the rules in accordance with our sacred traditions bear your memory and respect." The Chamberlain was sure to remind and again pounded gavel to ground and the Lords all seemed to nod or show their understanding in some manner or fashion.

"My King." The Chamberlain bowed, acquiescing the floor to him. Aragorn bowed his head once more and gave a low sigh from his nostrils.

"My Lords, I have been made aware to some of your grievances. I wish to hear more of these matters from you personally, and together may we seek the means by which to mend any concerns that weigh on your minds."

"I am grieved!" The King was retorted to upon immediate cessation of his greeting. All Lords and the ladies attending to the Queen turned at the harsh tone of the Lord Alagos, a young man from the city of Linhir from the province of Lebennin spoke out. The other and older Lords or Princes shared appalled glances or glares. Well all save the Prince of Pelargir. Lord Prince Amathir, who said not a word and showed not a sign of emotion.

"My Lord, my good King! I come to you now aggrieved! Aggrieved by news that my sailors have spotted ships! Blackened ships with blackened sails tracing the long shores of the bay of Belfalas! Three days prior have my fishermen seen the black sails of the enemies in the far south! I was loathed to hear of such movement. Loathed for it was my belief and that of the many towns and ports lining the bay that the Corsairs had been defeated! Defeated in no small part by your good self, my Lord!" It was clear by the young man's tone that he was upset, and sarcastic. His heated declaration coming off the back of years of having to contend with the free ability of the Corsairs to assail southern Gondor under the reign of the Steward Denethor. PLord Alagos' father had perished fighting the many attacks of the Corsairs, and had fallen but a few days prior to Aragorn's move upon Minas Tirith in the war. It was not something the King had desired, but certainly something he had little control of.

"You would do well to watch your tone, my Lord Alagos." Faramir began for the King where he rose form his seat. "You should remember to whom you speak! All grievances shall be tended to, and should your city be threatened then this is the place to announce such. Not lay blame upon for mere sightings." The fair and even tone of the Steward seemed to set the young man; perhaps younger than even the Steward, back. He swallowed and bowed his head.

"My apologies, my Lords. Yet, my point remains. My Lord-King, black sails have been seen traversing the bay. The bay by rights is sovereign under protection to the Kingdom of Gondor! If it be true that their host, that of the Corsairs come from Umbar had been so waylaid by your forces in the War then who came by them to be so bold so quickly?"

"I would like to know this myself, my Lord Alagos." Aragorn began. His eyes narrowed, but more in thought than pointed anger or agitation.

"My Lord Steward," Aragorn turned downward to Faramir who met his gaze. "Have you heard news of Corsair movement along our shores to the south?"

"No, my Lord. This is the first I am hearing of such." Faramir turned back to Alagos. "You say that fishermen of your city have seen Corsair ships? May I ask if it was but one or many, and to how many sightings?"

"It has been on multiple occasions, my Lord Steward!" Alagos replied. To which many of the other Lords; some from the southern portions of the Kingdom, turned to one another concernedly.

"Three nights ago and by swift rider have I been informed of the sighting of two Corsair ships in unison pass through the waters near my city!" Alagos carried on. "Another four had been sighted a week ago! They made no move upon my city, and I have heard nothing of violence from the surrounding towns or villages, my Lords. However, I may not be old enough to know as my father did to their intent, but I can see a probe into our territory when it is so blatantly placed before me." To that Aragorn turned to Amathir. The Prince of Pelargir had arms crossed before his chest and head down turned. Seeming to be in thought as his darkened expression never ceased. As ever, the King held remorse and empathy deep for a man such as him to have lost so much, and a city in a battle he knew the Prince blamed him for. Yet, such feelings need be put aside for now.

"My Lord Prince Amathir," Aragorn again began. Catching the man's sour gaze and pursed lips. "I believe Linhir is within the Province of Lebennin. Is your city not chief among all cities of this region?" Aragorn asked, and though it did him no happiness to mention the city as though it stood it need be said. As expected Amathir gave the faintest of sneers. His lip fighting and twitching to rise in full disgust.

"If I am correct, the true question you wish to ask of me, my King, is why I have not seen any such movements along the shore. Perhaps it is because all watchtowers that were present within the fallen and burnt wreckage that is Pelargir no longer stand. As well I have not a single ship left from the few of our Kingdom's fleet given to me to use. I have been back and forth between Minas Tirith and Pelargir to the best of my ability of late. No man that remains in the wreckage has seen any movements."

"Then perhaps you and your men should tend to the security of your coasts better." Faramir butted in and offered. Aragorn would not have chosen to be so forward and blunt, but Faramir had in times past shown a sort of disquiet where the Prince of Pelargir was concerned. He was perhaps protective of the King, but in this matter such lack of tact was not called for.

For his part Amathir gave a smile full of scorn.

"Truly? Forgive me, Lord Steward, but I along with my fellow Lords along with yourself and the King have been informed of this today! If I am to be blamed for not being aware of such movements, harmless thus far, movements by pirates then the blame is not mine alone! But, Prince Imrahil, all the lords of the southern shores, yours and the King's!" Amathir's outburst caused an immediate shouting match. Faramir cast pointed finger to the man and began harshly accosting him as the other lords began jabbing their fingers and spitting venom of accusations and demands to their fellow Lords. Alone Prince Imrahil held both hands out between two of his junior Lords seeking to quiet them even against the use of his name by Amathir. Aragorn was swept back to over a year ago when he sat at Lord Elrond's Council and all were trying to discover what they should do with the Ring. Alas, such things never changed.

The Chamberlain pounded the gavel to the stone and many of the Lords hushed themselves or one another turning back to Aragorn. Yet, some still shouted even as Faramir cast glare onto Amathir and silenced himself.

"Enough!" Aragorn gave stern shout from deep within his chest and the call born of his Númenorean blood echoed the hall. Silencing all who yet cast venomous words. The King now stood before his throne and towered above all and was a mighty visage that imposed fear into his enemies, and allies should the need be.

"Let us not cast blame upon one another for the deeds of enemies to the Kingdom. The Corsairs of Umbar had been dealt a mighty blow this is true. However, it is clear they have not been destroyed in force and power. We shall come together and work to find a solution to end any such threats to our people and our trade where and when they arise. Rather than devour one another as though we were at war with ourselves! Am I made clear?!" The King imposed his thoughts. As his voice was more powerful than any other about the room. All had to bow their heads in submission. From Chamberlain, to Steward, and among the Lords and Ladies. Aragorn's gaze pierced all and fell over each person present before he was satisfied.

"Good. Now," He sat back into his throne adjusting his back against the stone seat. "The ships in the bay have not caused harm to any ports, towns or cities. That is good news, and we shall not take such for granted. Yet, it reveals that they are not yet ready to assault us in any form. Otherwise they would have already. More likely they are looking for where we are at our weakest, and likely have gone further northwest than merely Belfalas. Seen or unseen they do intend to find us where weak and harm us."

"I agree in full, my Lord." Faramir offered along with the nods and agreements of a great many others.

"My Lord Alagos,"

"Yes, my Lord?"

"Recall your fishermen once you return to your city. Set them within your city's walls for two weeks time, and compensate them appropriately." Alagos furrowed his brow, but then bowed his head.

"Ye...yes, my Lord."

"Good. My Lord Prince Imrahil," Aragorn called to one of the most gracious and capable among all of Gondor's Lords.

"Yes, sire?" The elder and wise Lord came forward. Head held high, eyes set and clear indication he was ready for all orders shown.

"I am placing you in command of all ships within the bay. I desire that you set your ships out and harass the Corsairs only once they have shown themselves outside the ports of Linhir."

"How do you know they will come for Linhir, my Lord?" Alagos interjected worriedly.

"Your city has seen them clearest. With none other among you showing signs you've heard or seen Corsair activity it is clear these pirates believe your city to be the one most worth 'probing' as you say, my Lord Alagos. Recalling your fishermen will be a sign of weakness, and as is the way of fell enemies they will see any signs of protection as a weakness. Lord Prince Imrahil will lay in wait in surrounding waters for when the Corsairs inevitably move closer to the city and we shall trap them. Where possible force the surrender of their ships, and where necessary defeat and destroy them."

"A fine strategy, and one I am fully committed to, my King!" Imrahil announced beating one hand to chest and bowing at the hip. Aragorn smiled thinly appreciating such a fine and honorable noble Lord's agreement and aid.

"My thanks, my Lord Prince. As for those of you who hold land and control of portions along the southern shore; it will be your tasks to ensure the defense of your cities and your people. I want patrols set upon cliff sides, and about mouths of any and all rivers. Including the Anduin, my Lord Prince Amathir." Aragorn gave pointed command and the Prince of Pelargir replied with a single nod.

"By your command, my King." He added without any real emotion about him.

"Good. Should any among you hear word or be party to attacks or feints made of by these pirates you are to send riders here at once. As well inform the Prince Imrahil and his men where possible. Understood?" All gathered lords tipped heads and bowed their understanding once more. Aragorn gave another low and unheard sigh. Well unheard by all than perhaps his wife. Regardless, he nodded his content.

"Very good. Now, onto other matters in need of tending to." He commanded and soon enough more lords began speaking on matters of more trivial but necessary concern. None questioning why the pirates from the south would dare prod the outermost reaches of the south. None daring to bring up the attacks on their emissaries by the men of Rhûn some time back. Indeed Gondor was at peace. There was not yet any pillaging being had by any of her enemies, and the fall of the Great Enemy was still celebrated in the clear skies of Gondor's daytime hours.

All true. So, Amathir thought and remained silent. Crossing arms over chest and caring not for what other matters these fellow lords of his spoke on. For, his mind, his eyes, and his heart were burning hot with love for his people and their Kingdom. For Gondor.

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L's Note: I am SO SORRY YA'LL! Lord Exar Kun had this chapter done a while ago, but with how karking crazy this year has been I've been a mess. Work, school just everything! So I'll keep this as short as I can. PLEASE review if you can/want it helps the real author with motivation! If you see any grammar errors you feel are really bad point em out before I do an official third read over later, and I'll fix it!

Also, NO, I will not share what any of the 'non-English' words are or what they mean for now. If you wanna look them up do what you can and maybe you'll have an idea what was spoken. ;)

Till the next one!

-L

Edit Note: Edited/Updated 9/20/2020