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.

20. The Senate

Chapter 20

The Senate

"These are the men, your Highness." Faramir introduced with a sweep of his hand. Pointing towards the nine assembled men. The King gave Faramir a passing nod of thanks and approached them. Noting that all seemed of varying fairness and outward manner. Some younger...well most were younger. One or two older than the rest. All seeming to have been 'dressed up' for this meeting. Aragorn was no stranger to the sights, sounds, and honestly the smells of seafaring men, however.

"Welcome, sons of Gondor." Aragorn bowed his head, and motioned his hand out in his common elvish greeting. "I've been told by the Lord Chancellor that you nine were the only survivors of the attack. Which I assume is the same as occurred a day and half earlier. This is the truth, I hope?"

"Aye, your Majesty!" One of the men spoke with a thickened accent alongside his Westron. Aragorn would guess him to be from the southwest of Gondor. "The...the Umbar, they stormed the ship! Killed many of our mates!" He carried on as Aragorn rounded over to him. The falls of his boots echoing through the great hall.

"I had heard such ill news." Aragorn nodded solemnly. "Many a ship have been struck by these pirates of late. Tell me," Aragorn pressed as he stood tall and regal before this simple man. "Was there anything of note?"

"Yes," Faramir added coming up beside his King. "Any detail would be of great aid. Even if you have repeated the tale many a time since your release, we would hear it again. No matter how small or insignificant it may seem." Faramir pressed with the full silent consent of the King.

"How about the fact we were taken prisoner?" Another young man with a clearly foul mood to him began. His eyes casting glowering glare upon the one who had spoken before. "How about the fact you so easily, and readily surrendered yourself before the enemies of not only the Kingdom but the King?!" The first man shrunk away. Seeming in terror at such a revelation being laid bare. Aragorn cast the second man a curious look. Though he did not move. While Faramir showed a more blatant disdain for the impropriety of this sailor.

"What is your name?" Aragorn asked the first man. He had turned his eyes away from him.

"It….I am Aragil, son of Argil, my Lord King." Aragil began with a noticeable fearful stutter. "P...please sire! I meant no-" Aragorn raised his hand and silenced him before he began.

"You need not apologize to me, Aragil son of Argil." Aragorn assured and pat the young man's shoulder. Before he quickly moved to the second man. "You speak ill of your brother in arms. You would damn another for the simplest of desires to live? Even after the darkness has, at least for a moment, passed? It seems strange a thing to focus upon now that safety has been found once more." The second man's eyes now darted as they studied the King's stern face. "Now, what is your name?"

"Tallas, my Lord." Aragorn nodded to the name.

"Do not be so quick to judge your fellow man, Tallas of Gondor." Aragorn made sure to note the lack of a father's name. "When we fear for our lives, some answer the threat of death with dismay and others with acceptance. Not all Men are similar of mind or manner. Neither are they lesser or greater for the manner in which they stare into the face of death. For none of us can know when it calls to us. None can be totally assured they are ready for it." Aragorn imparted upon this Tallas, and strode away from the group entire. The other seven watching between this little exchange with muted and varying degrees of wonderment. More than likely directed at simply being near the returned king and hearing him speak. Though Aragorn did not wish nor seek to focus on such self serving realities or thoughts.

"Now," The King began again as Faramir paced back towards the right of the group. "I am your King and Sovereign. I seek no retribution for what some may view as 'cowardice' nor for the loss of the cargo your ship ferried. None of you need fear me." Aragorn swept his hand to Faramir. "My Steward and Chancellor stands witness to my words. So, please." Aragorn pressed that same hand to his chest. "We must learn whatever we can about these marauding pirates. For the protection of our people, your families, and the Kingdom entire."

"Aye, the King speaks clearly. And, I do stand witness to his proclamation." Faramir added now. "The reports from the riders who found you lot recounted the tail you wove. Though it was rather...confused. I assume it to be the cost of many voices telling the same tale from different points of view?" Faramir carried on and Aragorn allowed him to. "Allow me to pose a question, and he who has clearest thought speak freely. Tell myself and the King the manner of this so called Captain among the Umbar. Their look, their manner, their action and words. If you can." The Steward posed and tread boot before the group as momentary silence passed.

"I...I spoke with the Captain, my Lord." Aragil announced raising his hand meekly. "He was...odd."

"Odd how?" Aragorn again stepped forward and took command. "Share all that you noticed. Sights, sounds, appearance, everything." Aragorn repeated and the man swallowed.

"Yes, your Majesty. The man was shorter than some though not as short as others. At least here among my fellow Gondorian. And…" Aragil paused and brought a hand to his neck. "He had a scratchy voice."

"Aye," All turned as a third man spoke up. "The Captain seemed to have a raspy voice. Noticeable for myself anyways." The rest of the sailors nodded.

"I see." Aragorn intoned. "Please, continue, Aragil."

"Yes, my Lord." Aragil bowed his head. "They...they spoke of us, Gondor and its people, as being among his kin. Calling us his people, their countrymen." Aragil announced. Aragorn watched the others. Gauging their silent review of their own memories. All of their eyes showed some measure of validation. Some of them nodded silent agreement to what Aragil said. Others sighed. Their minds likely recalling the sight and sound of war upon the ocean waves. Aragorn turned to Faramir. His Chancellor gave a single curt nod and turned. Moving towards a nearby table where a parchment of paper lay.

"He said something odd…" This time it was the more subdued voice of Tallas that spoke.

"Can you recall what it was, Tallas?" Aragorn prompted.

"I...am unsure? I think it was something... Like an old folk song, or a tale. Words that seemed familiar but I cannot recall from whence I heard them." Tallas drifted in memory. His brow creasing in thought. "'Out of the sea…' something." Tallas intoned. Aragorn reclined his head. The words easily echoing within his mind. Though he did not speak the words openly.

"Please, keep trying." He instead pushed Tallas.

"'Out of the sea, I am come.' Yes, that's it, your Majesty!"

"How came you to hear this?" One of the men, another Aragorn did not know the name of, asked.

"I was stood near the Captain when he and the enemy Captain met blade for blade." Tallas answered. His features showing anger. "He spoke them as he ran the Captain through. Before I was felled by a hilt to my head."

"Calm." Aragorn raised a hand. "You have my thanks, Tallas."

"Aye...thank you, your Majesty." He bowed and relented.

"Tell me, Tallas," The King carried on. "This Captain, did they have the look of a man of Umbar?"

"If you mean stout and loud with a tinged complexion sire, then no." Tallas shook his head. "No, I'd say they bore the look of a man of Near Harad. Swarthy, but only kissed by the Sun. Not like the men of Far Harad. Those of Umbar bare an entirely different look all their own. Though they do admittedly intermingle with the Haradrim."

"No, I understand your meaning." Aragorn waved Tallas off as the young man sought to explain his words. "A final question for you men." Aragorn continued. "This man commanded all of the Umbar, yes?"

"Aye, your Majesty." Aragil offered. "Commanded three ships he did."

"All of the men seemed at the Captain's beck and call." Tallas continued after Aragil. "Heard the First Mate call him 'Lord.' Not that I know much of the Umbar ways, but it seems odd for a Captain to be called as such. At least as far as I know, your Majesty." Tallas shrugged. Though he seemed to recoil and realize how improper he appeared. For his part Aragorn ignored such protocol missteps. His mind was far elsewhere at the moment.

He turned on his heel and the silence that fell upon the hall was pregnant and deafening. The shuffling of the boots from all the men sounded out. While Faramir continued jotting down some manner of notes upon the paper prepared. For his part Aragorn could not entirely be sure what to make of all of this. Though, he did not feel like sharing such things among the company of these lads. So, he turned back to them and planted a serene smile onto his features.

"All of you have my thanks for your help in this matter. Please," Aragorn waved to a nearby guard from among the citadel. They approached and clanged their spear to the ground. "Follow the guard from the hall. Each of you shall be compensated for your ill plight. Go, and be at peace." Aragorn bowed at the hip. Rising he could see the awe plastered on all of their faces. Never likely imagining a King to bow to them. Or, to have a King at all. Let alone one that was as 'kind' as he was. Though he would not imagine to gift himself such a title.

"Hail, my Lord King!"

"May your reign be long, sire!"

"Long live the King!" They all spouted off something of similar manner. Their words filled with anxiety and flustered thoughts. All jumbled and falling from their lips as a tidal wave of euphoria. Aragorn continued to smile. Dipping his head in appreciation of not only their reverence, but their clearly shown love of their sovereign. He wished them nothing but the best. As was why he had instructed the treasury to gift each of them many a days worth of pay. It was no fault of their own their livelihoods were marred so. Aragorn would see them, and all his people secured if he could.

"Well, that was...enlightening." Faramir sighed beside him. Having paced up beside Aragorn as he had been within his own thought.

"Was the information consistent?"

"Aye, it was, my Lord." Faramir nodded. "A Captain at the head of these marauding corsairs. Seemingly declaring themselves to be of Gondor, and yet they carry themselves like a man from Harad. It is quite the mystery." Faramir gave a shrug. "Or, perhaps this person is merely crazed?"

"I doubt that." Aragorn intoned. "I do not think a crazy man; at least in the way one would think with such a word as 'crazy,' could lead the corsairs as he has. Pirate attacks, and tactics for which I am not unfamiliar with." Aragorn continued as he circled around and began pacing in musing. "Yet, this leader, he spared those men."

"Once they surrendered of course." Faramir nodded.

"Yes. Once they surrendered." Aragorn repeated. "That is not the usual manner of the pirates. The corsairs raid, they pillage and plunder. They steal and they burn. Many a man, woman and child of Gondor have suffered to their savageness."

"This act of charity does not belie the fact that they have raided not just this one ship." The Steward come Chancellor pointed out. "I do not seek to tell you how to feel or view such, my Lord. However, we should not forget that in spite of this kindness, the corsairs have burned more than just this ship. Nor should we forget the many men lost because they had not surrendered." To that Aragorn nodded subtly. His eyes fixed onto the clean reflective marble stone beneath his boots as he paced. Long thoughts flowing back in time to when he was younger. Serving under Faramir's grandfather against these very same corsairs. He did not ignore nor wish to arrogantly disregard the Lord Chancellor's points. However, Faramir had not seen the corsairs as he had. Aragorn had seen them before, and recently. He knew little was different about them. As far as he could see, and he did not have the far seeing vision of an elf or a wizard. Still, such seeming mercy from one among the pirates was nearly unheard of. Greater still! They did not seem the usual ilk borne of Umbar. Of course the men of Umbar had long ingratiated and intermingled with the people of Harad. The Umbar had, however, maintained a certain uniqueness to themselves that this Captain did not share. It was look as well as culture.

"It is all curious." Aragorn finally intoned aloud.

"Your Highness?" Faramir questioned as Aragorn turned to face him.

"Has any word reached us concerning Prince Imrahil and his movements?"

"Ah yes, the Lord Prince has sent word that his assembled fleet has begun patrolling the eastern shores. However, they are spread thin."

"And Prince Amathir?" Aragorn wondered. Though the immediate reply was written on Faramir's face. A soured frown.

"The Lord Prince of Pelargir has been less than helpful, your Majesty."

"Has he?"

"Yes." Faramir grumbled. "He has informed me that he has set watches along the furthest eastern shores of Southern Ithilien and Lebennin."

"Do you doubt the Prince?" Aragorn wondered. Though Faramir shook his head and a heavy sigh loosed from his nose as he motioned his arms out. This would, Aragorn knew, be a breach of protocol within the presence of the King. Though, Aragorn did not view himself as being in need of such trivial formalities where real concerns lay in need of attendance.

"I don't know whether I should doubt the man, or distrust him!" Faramir carried on. "He was never so frustrating as he is now with my father. Pelargir was always well maintained as far as cities and the surrounding lands were concerned. He was of great help in fortifying the southern watch when the Haradrim began moving north."

"Then his city was destroyed." Aragorn interjected and Faramir shook his head.

"Yes. It was. Though his was not alone in such devastation. Not now and certainly not through history." The Chancellor countered. "Many from Pelargir were saved, and in no small part due to your friends."

"The Lord Prince blames me, my friend." Aragorn flatly, and matter-of-factly offered. "I was the one who ordered the attack on the north with the aid of those same allies. I could not foresee the retaliation they would unleash on Pelargir. That is perhaps the first mistake I made as King. In action if not in noble title." The last words came out lowly as an intone. Though Faramir for his part again shook his head. His features showing resolve.

"No, my Lord! What you did was take action! You did not wait for someone else to make the decisions for you! Hard as they may have been. I don't know what exactly those friends of yours from…"

"Space." Aragorn chuckled and answered.

"Space. Yes, I don't know exactly how they did what they did. But, those in the north have spoken of the aid given. Word of flying 'beasts' that felled many Easertling and orc alike. The burden you helped alleviate cannot simply be ignored, nor should it! I for one stand behind your decision entirely."

"And for that I am grateful." Aragorn smiled, and placed a hand onto Faramir's shoulder. "It does not speak to the pain caused, though. That too must be acknowledged. No victory no matter how great or grand cannot dispel misery and grief."

"Acknowledged yes, but treated as though it is something that can be reversed? To dwell upon the past when we cannot hope to change it? What was done is done, my Lord. All we can do now is decide what to do with the time we still yet have. And the Lord Prince Amathir has chosen to be less than helpful to not only his King, but his people!" As Faramir finished Aragorn couldn't help the thin smile that ran along his features. The words of the Chancellor sounding of a familiar elder wizard who was now very distant from them. Though Aragorn did wish for a speedy return and council should time allow.

"I do not think Amathir can see past his own despair." Aragorn offered.

"Despair or not he is of little aid to you and the people of Gondor, my Lord." Faramir countered. "Much and many were lost when Pelargir was felled by the metal 'beasts' of our enemies. His people suffered, and…" Faramir raised his hands. Relenting to seemingly an unknown power. "And he lost much himself. He does not talk about it, but we all know."

"His wife and child." Aragorn intoned with a low sadness. "Were either found?"

"I…" Faramir paused. His face showing the answer before he gave it. "I do not know, your Highness."

"Alas." The King sighed. "The Lord Prince requires closure. A measure of peace."

"I do not think anyone can gift him that but himself."

"No, I know you're right." Aragorn nodded. "Still, I am not ready to take the position you have on the man."

"I only wish to keep an eye on him. A keen one at that." Faramir restated his position. Many a times in these past days had he and the King spoken of the man. Amathir was oddly enough a name on many lips. The Lords speaking of their talks with Prince Amathir. Mostly concerning their own watches and lands. The fact he is clearly dissatisfied in conversation with them about the dealings in the East as well as the pirate attacks. His spoken words against the King of Gondor in the 'secret' company of his fellow Lords. Though many of whom reported his foul and felled words back to the Chancellor in swift a fashion. Aragorn did not assume a man to be disloyal to the Kingdom merely because they held disquiet with he himself. Though, he was not so naive to imagine disdain for one could not balloon into hatred for all.

"What you recommend is dangerous." Aragorn began again. "To watch one man for his potential lack of loyalty then gives us the fear of others. Soon we will have many a man woman or child throughout Minas Tirith and the lands acting as spies. Were we the Enemy we would use bird and fell beast to do such bidding."

"We are not the Enemy, my Lord." Faramir offered sternly, though respectfully. "I do not wish to place spies on every doorstep, nor see everyone of my people, your people, as enemies in waiting. Lord, Prince Amathir is dangerous. I feel it, and I feel it strongly. With the business concerning the pirates and the East we cannot hope to deal with any of those problems on a united front when he so actively makes our lives, and more importantly, your rule so difficult."

"And if he is loyal, but merely spiteful?"

"Then we will have to make due with an obstacle on the road. Rather than an outright enemy." Faramir offered and Aragorn sighed once more. Pacing back and forth before the stone steps leading up to the throne of Minas Tirith, and the throne of Gondor for all intents and purposes. He once again felt as though he was being asked to make a fateful decision. Similar though not hopefully as bloody as the one asked of him by his Jedi friends. To use their weapons of war and make war in the north. Which led to the situation they were in now. For all things were connected in spirit if not in action. And, in this case most certainly in action. Aragorn could not deny that something was brewing. Just beneath the surface. After his coronation and the happiness felt across Gondor there had settled into place another feeling. Unease, and trepidation. The east in chaos, but those at its borders violent. Their watch killing the poor souls sent as emissaries. The southern lands were an unknown, but now for the endless piracy of the corsairs and this unknown leader now seemingly at the helm. And a Prince on the southern front who at a loss of family and home seemed rebellious to some if not all. It saddened him, but Aragorn had to admit; the last thing he and this Kingdom needed was a potential rebellion. If anyone showed potential for such an act it was certainly Amathir of Pelargir.

"You may watch, but nothing is to be done, lest I give the freedom to do so. Understood?" Faramir was shocked, but quickly bounced back and bowed at the hip.

"Of course, your Majesty! Not a thing done. I swear it."

"See to it you hold to your word." Aragorn nodded. "Furthermore, utilize whatever contacts your father has left in the south. Try to discover the name of this Captain for us. It may give us clue to the riddle of their coming into power."

"I will send word at once, your Majesty." Faramir again bowed. Aragorn gave a thankful thin smile, pat his Chancellor on the shoulder and made his leave. Both men having their own duties to attend to. The Kingdom around them simmering with the undercurrent of unease.

---

San Hill walked with the clang of shoe to metal grating underneath him. Carelessly trudging through one of many unremarkable hallways. The tall muun meandered through a droid here and a droid there. The hallways lined with security B1 units doing nothing but idling and watching. As well as the odd shuffle of heavier B2's or other assorted units of the Confederate cause. He hummed with a sigh and turned right. Making his way for a routine and probably quite boring meeting with some of the other members of the Council. Lord Sidious had not been in contact for a few days, and as per usual it left the management of the war effort to the Council. In spite of what the dear General thought of course.

The capture of Dooku and the loss of the battle over Coruscant had left many on the Council uneasy. Though Hill was not so easily intimidated...well at least that's the way he sought to project himself. Truth be told, he was a bit concerned. Dooku was many things. Certainly he had been like glue for this assorted rag tag team of money hungry corporate warlords. Though, where the armies and the navy were concerned the Confederacy was well in order all things considered. It was merely a question of leadership.

They were lucky really. Hill thought. To have a leader such as Sidious. Hill was not so deluded as to think Sidious wasn't getting quite a bit out of them. In kind; as all good businessmen do, Hill was sure he was personally getting a lot out of it as well. Play the pazaak cards right and everyone on the Council would get their just rewards for their loyalty. No small amount of obedience sure, but service to the greater ends of the galaxy did not come without sacrifice. Hill wondered if others on the Council were just as aware as he was what the end goal would be? If that murderous fool in the machine body he had built knew? Gunray certainly was frightened by Grievous. Really Gunray should be more like Hill himself, so he thought! He should feel sorry for that simpleminded once kaleesh fool-

"Hill!" The muun jumped at the sound of that voice. The very voice of the being he had been thinking of. San turned left where he faced a corridor. There stood as a hulking pillar of darkness to a distant unknown light. The General himself. His yellow eyes dimly noticeable in the dark quiet of the hall. As were the two clanking approaches of his magnaguards.

"General, I had not been expecting-"

"Save your breath." Grievous growled lowly and Hill bowed his head.

"As you wish." Silence passed for an uncomfortable moment between them. Droid security units walking by them. Some turning and noticing the General and turning to walk wherever they needed to another way.

"Ahem, Grievous may I ask what-" Before he could finish Hill was shaken. The General began stomping at fast speed towards him. "What are you doing?!" A sudden fear, no, a terror filled him. Something was wrong. The General came stomping closer and closer, and Hill began walking backwards towards the opposing wall. "General, what is the meaning of this – ACK!" Hill gagged as the bony tendrils of Grievous' hand swept out and gripped his thin neck. In an instant he was hauled into the air, and felt his naturally gaunt form pinned into the same wall he had backed into.

"Gen...General! Whatev...whatever this is we can...we can…" Hill now grappled with the metal arm and the wrist of the hand that pinned him. His breath was not coming to him. He felt lightheaded within an instant. Precious oxygen wasted on the words he had spoken. His eyes undoubtedly bulging, and his slender legs banging the wall, and futilely hitting the General's shins and thighs to no avail.

"We can what?!" Grievous growled and yanked the muun Separatist leader away from the wall. Only to then slam him back against it. "Go on! Finish the sentence, Hill!" The General growled as a cough echoed through the hall. This one from Hill and not the General who stood glaring into the bulging terrorized eyes of the muun. He opened his mouth but he could not speak. Color, Hill knew, must've been leaving him. His heart was pounding, and his blood begging for more oxygen that simply would not come.

"Pl...pl…!" Nothing came out but the beginning of his begging. Grievous seethed with a growl that rumbled into a single hoarse cough of his own. Before he gave a disgusted retch and threw Hill onto the floor in a crumpled mess. Immediately the sound of ragged coughing, gasping and sputtering sounded through the halls and likely those adjoined. Security droids walked by, and none of them did a thing to the General even as Hill, through wincing eyes, saw them. Though he dared not beg for help. They wouldn't. Even if they had some will or programming that would incline them to. The standing magnaguards to the General's back would dispatch them without word or thought. The muun gripped his tender neck and felt the bruises coming before they were even there.

"Wh-" San tried to speak, but only fell into a hoarse and ragged bout of coughing. He dared to even mock himself within the confines of his mind. Thinking he sounded more like the good General with these spasms. "Wh...what is wrong with you?!" San began and climbed onto his knees. Only to collapse back onto his hands and cough with intense force and violence. Sputum and spit flying onto the ground ahead of his face.

"You are granted a moment's reprieve because I want you to talk! That alone saves you from dying this moment, Hill!" Grievous growled as San felt his robes twisted in his brutal metal fist along his back. With incredible strength Hill had himself gifted this murderous malefactor, Hill was thrown onto his backside. His back slamming into the wall forcing more wind from his lungs. His head spun from the impact of it hitting the wall as well.

"G...Grievous, y...you maniac!"

"Don't act so surprised, Hill." Grievous intoned and leered over the muun with the full presence of himself. The shadow of the creature and his robes cascading upon San's fallen lanky body. "You have known me longest of everyone here."

"T...to assault me?!"

"To grant you a chance to answer me, whereas I could simply kill you and be done with it." Grievous growled again. "Or, should I kill you here and take pleasure in that alone?"

"No!" San coughed again. Throwing a hand up. Begging for the mercy of a moment without his life in imminent danger. "No! No, don't do that, please!"

"Begging will get you nothing."

"Then what do you want?!" Again San gagged, and held both hands outwards. Blocking his face from any potential punch or kick. Though he knew it would do him no good.

"The files concerning the bombing of the Martyr." Grievous began and San's brow furrowed.

"Wha...what about them? The Martyr?!" He exclaimed in disbelief.

"There is little to nothing concerning the state of the wreckage! Nothing about the other dead kaleesh! Nothing about how you found out about the bombing."

"Why would I have those details?!" San coughed. "Huh?! What makes you think-"

"You're from the Banking Clan, Hill!" Grievous cut him off and took a single menacing stomp forward. "You expect me to believe a muun from the banks wouldn't have every intricate detail logged? You think; after years of serving as your muscle, I don't know what a report from you or your lackeys looks like?!"

"What are you talking abo-" Suddenly Grievous' fist slammed into the wall beside San's head. The metal creaked and creased. San jumped with a yelp he had not wanted to let out.

"Don't try and make a liar of me!" The General was inches away, face to face. Eyes glaring into San's large fearful globes. "I have ignored much. Too much! You fed me a lot after I woke up from the bombing! You told me the Jedi and Republic did it to me. You, Dooku and the rest! I believed you wholesale. You gave me this," Grievous swung his arms out. The whir of which made San jump again. "And I hate you and the others every waking moment of my life for it." The General finished, but did not elaborate further on the matter. "Now, for the first time I have unrestricted access to all Confederate files! From all systems, from all affiliates and all the rabble that align with us. I ask again – do you think I don't remember your reports?! Perhaps you wish I didn't? Perhaps you wish to mess with my head even more than I know you have!"

"No!" San began again with little else than a feeble plea to his tone of voice. "I haven't done anything to your head-"

"Wretched banking filth!" Grievous howled. San felt his eyes widen more than he thought possible, and the General's clawed foot slammed up into his left shoulder. A howl unlike any he had ever managed in his life vomited up from his lungs as searing pain tore through his body entire. A wave of heat spread through his shoulder, down his arm. A sensation of that heat ran down his chest, and he knew without seeing it blood was falling freely. Just managing to leak past the talons now embedded in his flesh.

"The next lie you feed me earns you a broken leg to match the shoulder, Hill! After that...well you have many bones in that walking carcass of yours!"

"Alright!" San howled. "Alright, alright, please!"

"Begging gets you nothing!" Grievous repeated and San howled once more. Screeching his pain through this lone hallway. As Grievous subtly tilted his leg and the talons inside San burrowed a little deeper, and tore his flesh a little further. All still as the droids did nothing. Security walked by not moving an inch. B1, B2, even the rolling droideka. No one was going to help him. Thoughts alone shook inside his head. Old deeds done. Old lies told. Old tales woven. All of it meant nothing as his heart raced in pain and fear.

"Okay! I understand! I just...I understand!" San babbled through the pain and Grievous again leaned closer. Eyes meeting the muun's.

"You will tell me point for point what happened with the Martyr. You will spare no details." Grievous dug the claws again and San seethed with hitched breath. "The second I sense you're lying, I'll break your body. In ways not even the Jedi have suffered under me. Am I understood, Hill?"

"C...clear!" San nodded vigorously. "Crystal clear, General!"

"Good." Grievous reclined and slammed San back into the wall with the foot still inside his shoulder. Though he did pull it free with an audible squelch of lacerated flesh and flowing blood. His right hand flew to the gaping wound and he pressed down through the shivering pain that rolled through his body entire.

"First thing you'll tell me…"

"Yes?" San quivered.

"Where is Archduke Poggle? And, what part did he play in this?" San gulped and gagged another cough. The eyes of the monster he helped birth into being glaring down on him. In a way he should've seen this coming. With Dooku and Lord Sidious around he hadn't.

Now he realized how foolish he had been.

---

"That is a curious bit of information. Though it doesn't quite give us any clues." Mace intoned with a low sigh. Opposite him Master Yoda hummed and nodded.

"Correct you are. Though trust the visions seen by this Gandalf, I do. Curious the visions may be, but connected to this Darth Sidious they must be."

"Yes." Mace nodded. "That, and at least we now have confirmation for what we feared. Dooku is being suppressed from a distance. To have such ability...locking one's mind into a comatose state."

"Not so strange or difficult a power, Master Windu." Yoda warned with a pointed finger. "Many records there are. Induced by the Jedi some have been."

"Perhaps." Mace conceded. "Though, I do not think it has been something committed by any Jedi in the least couple of centuries. Though it's rather a bit moot." Mace shrugged slightly. "This Sidious does not want Dooku awake. That raises questions of their own."

"Hmm, that it does." Yoda agreed. "Perhaps, Darth Sidious does not want us questioning Dooku? Understandable a position, for one such as they."

"Yes, but to not trust Dooku to keep quiet?" Mace offered with thoughtful brow. "Would Sidious believe Dooku would fold? Talk to us about whatever it is we want to know? Which; if I may add Master, there is little evidence in support of. He has been caught in the past. Not for long, unfortunately, but,"

"Well taken your point is." Yoda nodded. "More likely another option is. Believe, Sidious must that a threat Dooku has become. Otherwise, placed into a Force induced coma, unnecessary it is."

"Which means Dooku and Sidious must not be as strongly bonded as we have previously assumed."

"Or," Yoda interjected again. "Recently their relationship has broken down? Perhaps a new view of recent events we should take?" Both remained quiet. Mace furrowing his brow and planting one hand to his chin in thought of Yoda's words. Before at last Mace's eyes widened and he cast glance back to Yoda.

"The attack!" Yoda nodded to Mace's deduction. "What if the attack on Coruscant wasn't just for the Chancellor?" Mace asked a question he already held a potential answer for. "Sidious may well have prompted Dooku to die. Which, if so Dooku somehow must be aware of. At least, we can assume as much if Sidious does not want him talking. Or, even able to talk."

"Still assumptions we make. Acknowledge that we must, Master Windu."

"Yes, of course Master." Mace nodded. Though his eyes betrayed him. As thoughts surrounding such a scenario clearly took up space within the fore of his mind. "Hmm…"

"Thoughts you have?" Yoda questioned, folding his hands into his lap.

"To trade Dooku for Grievous?" Mace spoke aloud. "That seems a rather strange trade off if you ask me. Dooku is...well he has become a monster. But, the droid General?" Mace's expression bore sourness and contempt. Though Yoda sensed his counterpart release it within the Force. "Dooku was Dooku, but Grievous is a whole other beast. I can't figure why Sidious would want Grievous at the helm of the Separatist cause."

"Great fear, the General inspires." Yoda offered in retort. "Besides which, remain the Separatist Council does. Perhaps they keep Grievous on a short leash?"

"Perhaps." Mace lowly intoned now and nodded. "Assuming," Mace waved a hand out as he continued freely musing. "Assuming that this Sidious is aware of Dooku's capture, and aware that he may speak to get revenge on Sidious. Then we should assume that he was keeping close eyes on the Count."

"The droids? Many of whom may be spies. Unknown this possibility is. Though possible all the same."

"True enough." Mace again conceded. "Grievous doesn't seem the type with the will or whit enough to betray Dooku. If we give such a scenario any thought."

"Possible all things are." Yoda again warned. Though Mace only nodded silently this time. Clearly his mind was made up on such a premise being the case.

"Skywalker and Obi-Wan reported that they faced Dooku within the observation tower of the Separatist ship. There's plenty of ways someone could be watching in such a place. Cameras, holo-recorders, even a hidden droid as you suggested."

"Hmm." Yoda hummed without further addition.

"Still. Like you said, Master, we're assuming."

"And assuming much." Yoda warned

"Yes, but it feels...right."

"Sense it, you do?" Yoda wondered. Mace's eyes narrowed. Though he closed them and Yoda could feel him enter into the Force for but a moment.

"Yes." Was his answer. Though Yoda was not so sure. As had been the case for years the Jedi had long been troubled with the dilution of their ability to use the Force for such assumptions or thoughts. Though, Yoda chose not to believe Master Windu had lied. As the Force gave him no indication he had.

"Let's say;" Master Windu began once again. "for instance, this Darth Sidious and Dooku were in league before the battle. Something had to of changed right before or during the battle. In order for Sidious to want Dooku dead."

"Betrayal, the way of the Sith it is." Yoda interjected again with pointed hand. "Perhaps, used to the furthest extent, Sidious believed Dooku to be?"

"Then Sidious threw him away. No real prompt to break accord. Though, his betrayal must be known, or had to of been known in order for Sidious to place him into a coma. Something had to alert Sidious he had been found out."

"Hmm. The new mystery that is."

"Without the first being wholly solved." Mace gave soft nasal sigh. "I fear that without Dooku awakening we may not find the truths to such mysteries."

"Insight, much insight in fact have we been given. Even from a simple thing as this Gandalf did."

"True." Mace agreed. "Perhaps this Gandalf can be of more assistance?"

"Possibly. Though, unsure of the nature of this being's powers I am. Worry I do. Much turmoil was released through the Force. During the meeting of their minds."

"Yes, but as you say; Gandalf proved the greater in their 'duel' as far as it would seem at least."

"Correct. Though an assumption it is. That win any encounter Gandalf can. If strain him such a task would, ask him I would not. The choice remains his as well, Master Windu." Mace showed dismay, but kept it to himself. Again, simply nodding away the position Yoda made on the matter.

"Then, without our intervention and the Council's to free Dooku's mind, we have to wait for him to wake up. Not entirely sure if he can at that."

"A dangerous road such thoughts still are. Without the vote of the Council, agree to such a measure I will not."

"I do not ask you to, Master." Mace raised his hands to placate. "Merely, I wish to bring it up in Council. If we lay out the details of these finds before the rest of the Council then I believe some or maybe all would vote to try and awaken the Count."

"Maybe." Yoda leaned his chin into his clasped hands. Raising them before his face, and surrounding himself with the calm contentedness the Force offered. "Only assumptions, Master Windu. Believe I do, on the right track we are. Without facts, or certainty. Dangerous it is to affect one's mind without their ability to consent or refuse. Defenseless, Dooku is."

"Forgive me Master, but" Mace began. "I must raise my concern."

"Concern?" Yoda tilted his head.

"Yes. It...well, Dooku was your padawan." Mace offered. Yoda could sense through both the Force and his intuition where this thought had led Master Windu. "I am worried such is skewing your judgment on such matters."

"Skew my judgment such history does not, Master Windu." Yoda firmly offered. His voice betraying no emotion, for he released all within the Force. Though the slight accusation did unnerve him some. "Cautious I choose to be. Understand such you should, Master. Lose sight of our way we will, if excuse all things necessary for victory, we do."

"Yes, Master." Mace bowed his head. Yoda's voice having been firm, and for once in the few rare times of late, pointed. The small Jedi Master could see his counterpart was put off by such a rebuke. As he should've been, as far as Yoda was concerned.

"If brought before the Council, such a question is," Yoda decided to again state his position. "Then vote for or against any such intrusion on Dooku's mind I will. Until such a time, meditate on this I will. As should you, Master Windu."

"I understand, Master." Again Mace bowed his head. "It is...frustrating is all. All of it is."

"Know I do. Feel the same I do." Yoda assured with a more accommodating tone. "Dangerous is it. To affect and invade another mind. Possible, yes. Successful at all times? No. Much care must be taken to dig deeper past the surface thoughts and feelings. Unusual it is for the Jedi to make such decisions."

"Yes." Mace nodded. "You're right. I apologize. I will wait and bring this up before the Council. Your decision would be your own, of course, Master."

"Hmm, of course, Master Windu. Your apology, accepted it is." Yoda and Mace both relented all and any emotion into the Force. Though the continued and obvious stress of these past days, and years had clearly worn on them in their own ways.

"If brought before the Council such a measure is," Yoda began once more. "Present, young Skywalker will be?" To that Mace's eyes narrowed. He reclined back as clearly he had forgotten about such.

"Such activity would be...best kept from the Chancellor." Mace iterated. "If Skywalker were to inform the Chancellor, even on accident, then the Jedi could receive more pressure than already present from the wider populace."

"Hmm. Even if vote down such a measure, the Council does?"

"Yes." Mace declared. "Even if we should vote against such a measure the fact that we held a vote would stir some. Not all, but enough. The Chancellor has done an effective job of vilifying us in the public eye." Yoda nodded to that. Though the fact such a measure put such concern into Master Windu even if the vote was against the measure, the small Master felt should have been a lesson in and of itself. Though he did not speak of that at this time.

"Then we should-" Yoda paused as both he and Mace both went rigid. The Force sending both a warning and both jumping into standing position. Before the sound of the Temple's emergency alarms began blaring. Throughout the Temple they sounded, and pierced all ears. All Jedi were awoken from meditation or sleep.

The two Masters running to and drawn before the nearest viewport.

"Down we must go!" Yoda now declared. Moving with great speed out from the room. Master Windu on his tail after what both had seen.

---

- Moments Before -

"-and the Republic will not bow to the whim of a bunch of feckless Jedi! Jedi, who bred this monster into the galaxy! Jedi who have time and time again unleashed their own to murder us! Jedi who feel nothing for those who suffer because they do not act! Jedi, Jedi, Jedi! Always is the galaxy and the Republic sacrificed at the alter of the Jedi Order! I do not know about anyone else but I am sick of it!" The man howled through whatever megaphone system he was using and the crowd roared in furious agreement. This man, nameless, but clearly a true believer, stood atop little else than a durasteel crate. He was disheveled, red in the face and seething. One didn't need the Force to see that. The targets of his derision, the Jedi Order of course. Though presently he and his mob of a few hundred had remained far longer than anyone, but especially Master Drallig had assumed they would.

"Master Drallig." The Jedi Master turned. On approach came one of the lieutenants within the Temple Security Force. In his hands a blaster rifle, and two other men in their shared uniforms behind him.

"Lieutenant."

"I've rotated a few of my men from the shift earlier out. Also called in a few off duty officers to help shore up any spots too big for your Peacekeepers to account for."

"You have my thanks, lieutenant." Cin nodded. "Let us hope this crowd remembers to go home. Do better things than prance around outside the temple and scream into the ether."

"One can hope, Master Jedi, sir." The man chuckled. Cin, taking a moment to glance down the line. The barricades that erected themselves out of the ground stood between the crowd and both the Peacekeepers and security forces. For every group of five or so security forces one peacekeeper stood ready. None of them had their lightsabers brandished of course. No need to rile the rabble any further than it already was. Though, Cin had come to really dislike these COMPOR people. This wasn't the first time they held a 'rally' outside the temple. And, for all their talk of love where the Galactic Republic was concerned you would be hard-pressed to find a single non-human among their rank. They were maybe able to fool some, but certainly not all with their vicious disdain for the Jedi, and for those they felt were beneath them.

"Listen to this one's lungs." Cin heard the lieutenant intone to his men. He cast them a glance before looking back at the crowd.

"The Jedi Order claims to protect the Republic! Yet, they unleashed Dooku onto us all! They have also gifted the Separatists plenty of other Jedi with dreams of murder, pillage, and dictatorship on their minds! Do they think we're stupid?!" Clearly a rhetorical, as the crowd again erupted in a serious of cheers, or pointed 'no's' and carried on. "Harboring a traitor! Harboring THE traitor should be seen as nothing less than a crime against galactic society! Harboring a traitor you birthed into being! Harboring him because he was and still clearly is one of you! They don't even bother hiding their corruption! Just look up how many Jedi have committed crimes! Look how many Jedi make deals with planetary governments in the open! The Jedi themselves saw the war coming and did nothing to stop it! Maybe they even wanted it!"

"Not a single shred of actual evidence to it." The lieutenant shook his head.

"Get people to believe any absurd thing and they are already primed to commit any atrocity you may need of them." Cin offered. Something he had learned and read in old philosophical fables concerning the nature of sentient beings. It felt all too true of late.

"Rear echelon patriots, Master Jedi. Nothing more to it than that." The lieutenant shrugged. "Boys, men, whatever have you; all of those who love talking about how much they love their government. But, don't you dare ask them to do anything for it. To help it in any meaningful way of course. They're just here to reap any and all benefits is all." The man scoffed a laugh. "Well that, and to tell everyone else how they're not as good of patriots as they are. While the real soldiers are knee deep in the mud on far off worlds."

"You seem to be highly opinionated on the matter, lieutenant." Cin cast a thin smile.

"When you have to hear this kind of buffoonery day in and out on the HoloNet and in person you gotta form an opinion at some point. Otherwise ignoring it won't solve nothing."

"Fair point." Cin chuckled softly. Clasping his hands back behind himself and letting a sigh loose as he watched the man in the crowd. He of course continued to spout off whatever crazed theory tinged with maniacal hatred he could.

"As the night goes on we should-" Cin paused suddenly. The Force struck him with a sensation. More a warning and he turned right where he felt a pull.

"Master Drallig?" The lieutenant began, but followed the Jedi's eyes to a distant portion of the barricade.

"Karking Jedi!" Someone yelled, and over the barricade a single glass of some kind flew and struck at the feet of one of the security forces.

"That looks like a growing problem." Cin intoned. His eyes narrowing to a glare.

"Right, I'm on it. You two, with me!" The lieutenant called and his two men followed after. The three making a brisk jog over to the commotion.

"Step back behind the rail!" Another voice called with one of the small portable megaphones. However, Cin was drawn by this new voice to opposite the first disturbance. One of the security captains was demanding a man who had crossed the barricades go back.

"Or what?! You'll shoot me?! Go on, shoot me! Do you even know why you're protecting the Jedi?!" The man slurred. Cin could tell even from far away he was drunk. Such assemblies like this brought such 'patriotic' beings about.

"Step back behind the rail!" The same captain demanded and Cin watched him raise his rifle along with his men. The peacekeeper beside him cautioning calm. So far as Cin could make out. Which he was happy for.

"Kriff." He still cursed under breath.

"Kark all the Jedi! Give us Dooku!"

"Dooku! Give us the traitor!"

"Give up Dooku! Karking Jedi!" The chorus of voices drowned out everything along the line, and another crashing bottle or sound of metal being thrown and hitting metal sounded. Within moments Cin realized a shift had occurred. Not just one act. Not just one being. It was like the Force itself. Traveling as a mood, and a feeling through all the crowd.

"Kriff!" Again he cursed. This time moving down the line and to the nearest security captain. "Does everyone have their blasters set to stun? All your teams?"

"Best I know, Master Drallig." The men, a bit shaken as Cin could tell, answered.

"Good. Stun only. Gas canisters if absolutely-" A shot rang out. Cin whirled around. The distant squad of men the lieutenant had gone to support were all ducking. Cin and all the Jedi instinctively had called and activated their lightsabers. Down the line a chorus of blues and greens activated almost in unison. The peacekeepers falling into defensive stances.

"Man down! I repeat man down!" Over one of the comlinks Cin heard. He couldn't see, but one of the security troopers must've been shot.

"Behind the rail now! Or we will open fire!"

"Fire!" Before the first man had ended his order, another opened up a blaze of blaster fire. Cin swept back around. The second group was the one opening up on the crowd. Insanity unleashed. The sound of screaming, cursing and bodies flailing. Some running around, and others backwards. Some climbing the rails. All of it sounded and showed in the chaos.

"Hold fire! Hold fire dammit!" Cin commanded and swept his hand under the man's blaster. Pushing it up. The man's eyes were wide as saucers.

"They're climbing the damn rail!" Was his only response. Cin glanced right. Scores of men were on the ground. All of them frozen from stun blasts. The others had thrown themselves backward from the sight of the security forces opening fire.

"Blaster! Blaster!" Over the comms again. From the first group. A new torrent of unleashed fire sounded. Cin grimaced and snatched up his own comlink.

"Master Drallig to all peacekeepers watch your own men! Don't let them lose themselves!" As he ordered he heard the distinct sound of a blaster bolt being deflected by a lightsaber.

"This crowd will disperse!" A voice over a megaphone demanded forcefully. It sounded like the lieutenant from before. "You will disperse at once! Anyone crossing these barriers will be fired upon!"

"Could at least say with stun bolts." Cin intoned under his breath.

"They shot at us!"

"They're killing us!" Shouts sounded from the crowd which had lost cohesion. They were wailing. They were being, in Cin's eyes, incredibly dramatic. They were the aggressors. Yet, that didn't stop the Force from warning him that this was getting out of hand and quick.

"Karking Jedi! Can't shoot us yourselves!" Another blaster bolt sounded and all the security forces ducked. The peacekeepers kept their sabers at the ready.

"Whoever has that damn blaster, weed them out!" Cin demanded into his own comm.

"Over on our side, Master Drallig! I see him."

"Good." Cin replied to...whoever that was on the comm. "The nearest Jedi find that man, and take his blaster, now!" Cin turned as the crowd's screams, hollering and roars of anger blocked most of his hearing. Though he did watch a distant Jedi yank the man and his blaster over the barricade. He made a screaming face and a distant holler underneath the miasma of it all.

"Let go of the blaster, now!" The lieutenant demanded over the megaphone. The Jedi yanked both the man and the blaster, and a pile of men had grabbed his ankles. Not allowing him over the barricade.

"Kriff!" Cin cursed louder. With a dash of speed through the Force he ran over. Just as a group of the men holding their friend with the blaster jumped the barricade.

"Give us the traitor!"

"Go ahead and shoot!" They kept screaming. Cin dove forward and raised his left hand out. The group were tossed unceremoniously over the barricade back onto their side. Before he finished his dash, found himself in front of the man with the blaster, and yanked it from his hands and kicked him and his friends back into the crowd with a little help from the Force in his move.

But, before Cin could even celebrate the small victories, and just as he dashed back to the Jedi lines the sound of successive explosions sounded. The popping of dispersal canisters. But, the crowd again erupted in screams, and the free flying of bottles, metal canisters and whatever else they had, sounded. They ran back, at least a portion of the crowd, and others swept forward, and the barricade became nothing but a joke. They were climbing it. All of them that could. They had lost their damn minds!

"All Jedi, push them back!" Cin called into the comm, and through some unknown unison all the Jedi reared their hands back and projected forward. An undulating wave of energy and power through the Force sounded as the entire line of rabble was cast back over the rail.

A blaster fired. Again it sounded like it came from the crowd.

"Kriff!" This came over the comm. Followed by pained grunts and a gurgle. "They shot me...shot me good…" The voice groaned. Cin tensed his lips and snatched at his own comlink again.

"Lieutenant, get your wounded and the rest of your men to the secondary barricade lines! All Jedi cover the retreat!" Cin commanded and wordlessly the security troops all picked up and turned in running formation back to the secondary lines. The few men back upon the secondary line watched on in what was likely confused and awed horror. The Jedi all stood their ground. And, Cin could tell, he could feel it, that many of them were growing restless. Concern not only for the men tasked with protecting them as a policing force, but as well for the Temple ran through them all.

A few more shots rang out sporadically. Some of the temple's security forces turned. Cin could see them far off. Their Jedi peacekeeper running over to them to stop them. Screaming something at them. Red bolts loosed and Cin watched three rioters; as they had now become, fall down. Their shirts and clothes in various degrees of smolder. His eyes widened even as the other Jedi forced the rest of the crowd back again.

"Keep them back! All security forces remove yourselves to secondary lines!" Cin seethed and was hard pressed, but did his best, to release all mounting anger into the Force.

"This is Master Drallig. Enable security lockdown of the Temple immediately! Send me every available peacekeeper or Jedi knight at once!" He demanded into his comlink with a snap of his hand to his ear. Whoever had been on the other end, he hadn't given a chance to speak. They simply needed to do what he asked. As more sounds of loosening dispersal canisters, flash grenades, and smoke bombs sounded above and within the crowd. The Jedi at the front pushing many back. The crowd screaming about their fallen friends. The security cursing and screaming at one another over the shared comm channel. The Force a total storm above and through them all. Even at this moment it amazed Cin.

Just how quickly things go from bad to worse.

---

Palpatine sat in the darkness of his quarters within the Executive. His eyes watching the feed from the HoloNet. News reports breaking from the talking heads and the barking mouths. Those who were and weren't so kind to him on political matters. But, that was besides the point. Everyone was up in arms. Everyone breathing heavily. Mouthing carefully chosen descriptive words as though it were speech day during their communications courses. The real interest were the sights he and everyone else not only on Coruscant, but across the galaxy had to behold.

People screaming. Gas grenades and flash bombs exploding. Security forces barking at one another over media tapped communication channels. Calls, screams, orders and the lighting of dozens of lightsabers against the common man and a few women too, from among Coruscant's population. To some who weren't quite so gullible such a sight would require nuance. Investigation, and review to find out exactly what was happening, or what had happened. Palpatine though, he smiled. Because he knew better. The rabble were as weakly minded as they were willed. Gullible to the point of self annihilation, and how he did so enjoy that about them.

So many of them would see this and demand something be done. They wouldn't even know what. And, that was the beautiful part of it all! They would want action. They would want something done so that this, whatever this actually was, 'wouldn't happen again.' So many of them would also surely be gullible enough to blame the Jedi. True or not. Didn't matter. It all felt right. So, Palpatine smirked and chuckled a few soft tones. Closing the channel down and rising to find himself to his bed. He had a few calls to make come the morning. After that, to the Senate. His measures regarding the dear Count would need review. Now more than ever before.

---

Sauron planted his legs before the cauldron. The vial he had carried with him remained tightly held within the left hand he wore. Wordless he snapped the station back to life. Followed by the hum of some kind sounding as the faint starting heat resumed within the mixer. The Dark Lord, silently still, grabbed all four rings and planted them within their casting mold. Pressing the mold over the cauldron and Sauron watched. Allowing it to heat them up once more. Letting it turn them malleable given time, once again.

Taking up the vial, Sauron popped it open and much of the blood had become dark and syrupy. The fluid beginning to congeal along the inner lining. Mingled with a dank metallic smell. Though it was hardly a smell he was unfamiliar with. Using the powers of the Force he subtly scraped the interior of the vial and swirled the mix without using any instrument of his hand. Touching the blood with the Force, he momentarily felt as though he could far more easily trace the connection his being held with his newest servant. Though he had little need for her at the moment.

Instead, he turned the vial upside down, and used the Force again. This time spreading the blood across all four bands. The fires and heat burned hot and the cauldron began to simmer and shine red. Softly at first, and turning hotter and brighter by the second. Sauron lowered the mold down and pressed the heat into it. Allowing for the metal to more easily consume the transferred heat. Along with the metal, Sauron watched the blood, rich with these unknown little 'cells,' simmer. Strands of smoke rising and the foul smell along with it morphing into something slightly more offensive. But, he would manage. Now, he waved his hand over the cauldron and mold. The words he spoke next coming as a near inaudible whisper.

"Blôg ghâsh-ishi, shakraûm madôm, fubûshi mad-ôrka." Sauron uttered dark and low. Eyes closed as the rippling affect of the words sung through his spirit. Enhanced and carried by the Force. As the room gave a rattle that was a little more than even he had wanted. The rumble died quickly, luckily enough. The blood bubbled below. The metal shinning hotter and hotter. Until the metal would eventually become a state like that of liquid, but more plasma. The blood to be absorbed as nothing more than more raw material.

"I don't know if you know this," The witch began. Her being once more an unseen visage of herself stood about the room beside her actual body. "But, not all of us can understand a lick of what you just said."

"Are we speaking again?" Sauron mocked within the shared space of her mind. "I had not thought you willing to indulge any further conversation? With one so foolish as myself." Sauron gave a mocking if ever deep and unusually toned remark within their mind.

"Don't get all bent outta shape, Dark Lord." Vica scoffed. "If the mag-train is careening into oblivion I may as well enjoy the show they've got on till we hit rock bottom." There was a momentary pause as Sauron sifted through her mind for the meaning to her analogy.

"An interesting way of viewing things." Sauron hummed. In the waking world he planted a wide smirk onto his features and stretched the witch's arms out. Humming some unknown tune to either of them. Scoffing as he idly picked and plucked at tools long the workstation he didn't need at the moment. Seeming as uncaring and unconcerned as he could. Chuckling as he watched the mold turn hot.

"You are acting strange."

"Am I?" Sauron retorted quickly. "Perhaps I have picked up your traits? Your personality and all its...nuances."

"If you think you're clever or funny you really aren't." She sneered through her projected form. "What are you even doing?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Sauron wondered. "I'm dripping blood onto the rings. Adding it to the mixture."

"Yes, I get that! I mean why? What are you doing that for? I've never in my life heard of anything made by a blacksmith, or a production facility needing some karking blood!" Vica groaned. Clearly exasperated. Sauron found it the mildest bit amusing.

"Very well." Sauron began. Though he swept their shared body around and made his way to the couch. Plopping himself...themselves down into it with a loud sigh. Closing their eyes and reclining into a lazy lie along the sofa entire.

"I am experimenting. As you have seen."

"With blood…?"

"Precisely." Sauron uttered. "Not just any blood. Blood rich with the Force. Perhaps this Force is indeed of a more mystical source. One beyond simple understanding as mortal minds would comprehend. Though, for my purposes such deeper thoughts or meanings matter little. Rather, if the Force is carried through all living things and found to be connective between power and being with blood, then therein lay the conduit."

"Huh?" Vica's form threw her arms up and out. Before they plopped down unceremoniously with exasperation. Sauron within their mind for once gave a faint groan like a throaty sound of weariness.

"Blood holds power. Blood is that which carries life. Without enough the body dies. Without blood perhaps some things may yet remain. Though that is besides the point. What matters is the Force." Sauron noted. "I have sifted your mind. Picked your thoughts, both your memories and with our past conversations. These midichlorians act as a conduit. A conduit for which you and those like you may use the Force. If this is true, then it is in blood that such power can be accessed. They are the gateway, if not the Force itself."

"So…" Vica began. "You think midichlorian filled blood is a conduit to the Force. Got it. Kinda obvious really. But, what I wanna know is why you splashed a little all over your rings?"

"When I made the rings of power; including the One, I utilized every resource I had available to me." Sauron began. His tone filled with musing and memory. "There were those who mined the metal. Some may have been dwarves. Others were mined by the orcs. All of which I donated to dear Celebrimbor." To that name there was a distant sardonic single laugh. "There was the metal itself. The elves who aided Celebrimbor in fashioning the nine rings for men, the seven for the dwarves...and the three I had no knowledge of. For a time." Now to that there was a boiling old anger. "There were the fires of Mount Doom. Where the One was concerned. There was knowledge. Which itself is the greatest of all resources. Both my own and that of the elves of Eregion. With all these resources and more I made the One myself. While I influenced Celebrimbor to make the others. For which I aided personally on many, and watched for the others."

"What does any of that have to do with my question?" Sauron remained silent for a moment before he spoke again.

"Because, witch, the Force is now another resource that I had not had last time. And, I would be foolish to waste such a new resource in the crafting of these rings." Sauron answered matter-of-factly. "Perhaps in the annals of history young Serra Keto would be but a footnote. She may in fact end up being such yet. However, what matters is the conduit. The blood, and these 'cells.' Not the one who gives it. Perhaps one more gifted could act as a stronger conduit? But, as I inferred, witch, I am testing my theory."

Once more silence passed. Vica's visage turning and looking towards the cauldron. Strings of steam rose off each burning band, and the Force in fact skittered and writhed just beneath the surface of sensation. The dark side had groaned as though awakening from dormancy when Sauron had spoken those unknown harsh words before. Such a tongue Vica had heard in passing and in flashes of thought. She guessed some slippage from Sauron's mind into her own. A thought and another question crossed her, and her projection turned to the lounging figure of her own body.

"If all you need is the blood, and the strength of the blood donor is not what matters why not just use my blood? Our...blood?" She wondered aloud.

"Because witch, this is a test." Sauron intoned. "Perfection may yet be had. None in the history of ring making, and craftsmanship have sought to make rings like these. Not from Middle-Earth, and I daresay from Arda entire." Sauron supposed. His manner holding an air of pride to it. "I believe greatness awaits my newest creations once I am satisfied with their state. Once they are completed. However, that is not a certainty. So, I pose a question to you instead. Why should I commit to a previously untested experiment with blood strong in the Force with a body I currently reside in? When there is another who freely gives theirs, regardless, of any and all consequence?" Sauron answered in his way. For her part Vica saw his logic and hummed thoughtfully. In fact a thin smile graced her projection for the first time in a while.

"I like the way you think. Well...sometimes." She chuckled.

"I take great comfort in such knowledge. Truly."

"Was that...sarcasm?" Vica grinned, but Sauron said nothing. Allowing her a stronger laugh all to herself. Even if she thought this was all a bad idea she couldn't deny how she felt. The idea of using the Force; in what reminded her of Sith Alchemy, to influence rings of power was...an exhilarating thought! To Sauron's credit, though she refused to say it, the dark side, and the Force entire was flush. There was something about it that surrounded these rings that had not been there before. Much like some of the beings from Arda, and even Sauron himself. Their power in the Force had an affect on it, but not a direct influence. Then she and Sauron became bunk mates and things changed. Not only a presence but a determinant upon the Force. So too could these rings become. But, what then?

She didn't know what power they were letting out of the proverbial bottle. Even if it did blow up in Sauron's face she was curious to see just what could be done. If anything at all. Or, maybe it would just make these rings more powerful with their natural strengths and uses? Time would tell. She supposed.

---

"It was an absolutely extraordinary night, Carrus! Not in my decades long career have I ever seen a sight like the one that happened here last night. You can still get a sense in the air; a feeling that something is just not quite right. The intensity I'd say." The tired looking human man reported. For the obvious deep rings under his eyes there was an adrenaline to him. He may have been worn, but he was awake. Some would daresay excited.

"What about these reports that we've heard of, alongside our affiliates? News spreading about violence of some kind. Assault or even worse? I...I don't want to be so forward live, Jorus, but reports of death? Some form of combat on the steps of the Jedi Temple?"

"Right...right well that's the thing, Carrus, nobody is quite sure what occurred. The Jedi Order have released a short statement through their front end run offices. Mind you their version of PR is usually run by non-Jedi."

"Right." This news anchor in studio, this Carrus, an elder mirialan woman nodded.

"While some of the people that were here, civilians and observers, what some would call...well rioters to be quite frank, they claim another story entirely. It depends on who's doing the talking. Over here," Jorus, who was on sight at the temple, pointed towards a plot some ways away from the main entrance. "You can see where both clone security and the CSF, that's the Coruscant Security Force, Carrus, have made a perimeter. Taking over maintaining some measure of peace and order from the Jedi and their own police service. These so called Temple Security Forces."

"Yes, we've heard from some of our affiliates that a lot of questions surround the activities and actions taken by these men. Soldiers? Can that word be adequately prescribed to them, do you think Jorus?" Carrus asked.

"Well that's the extraordinary thing, Carrus. Not many people actually know that the Jedi Temple and the Order employ these security forces. They're more police than they are a military of any kind. However, that hasn't stopped some who were here last night; as part of that COMPOR rally, from calling them paramilitary thugs within the employ of the Order. Of course if you were here last night as I and my team were you would've heard and seen the...well quite frankly demonstrable rancor of the crowd." Jorus noted with a breathless sigh at the end of so animated a response.

"Okay, well circling back to these casualties that have been reported on, Jorus uh...do we know? Did you see anything...like that? Casualties? There's plenty of video circling the HoloNet with all manner of conspiracy claims and the usual 'banter' that comes with the HoloNet of course."

"Well," Jorus began with a sigh. Again he moved aside from what was likely his cam droid and showed a region beyond the new line of red tinged clone security units and CSF security personnel. Where along the ground were placards. "Over there just beyond the guard line and barricades you can see some scorch marks. Probably to be cleaned up in the next few days as the Coruscant droids are to do. But, for now, the CSF have placed those cards there indicating it has become part of evidence. Now, when the riot began I heard what was the distinct firing of blaster pistols of some sort. If you listen to those audio recordings we've managed to attain, you can hear the response of the security forces to the shooting. As well as what appears; and I must stress it's merely conjecture, what sounds to be some members of the security forces acknowledging their shooting of these rioters. That would be as they; the rioters, allegedly crossed the barrier just a short walk from here going east." Jorus pointed with a wave of his hand. In the view of the cam an LAAT flew overhead and lowered down. Letting off a few more red striped security clones who set up positions he was all too familiar with. Oddly, and mutely one could also see a lone hawk-bat of all creatures clinging to the LAAT. But, that was just for the keen of eyes. Hardly the strangest thing today.

"You'll go insane if you keep watching that, Ani."

"It's hard to look away." Anakin shook his head. "What were they thinking? Crossing the barriers...and Master Cin? The security forces should've had things under control." He more intoned to himself with a long sigh. His eyes narrowing and an uneasiness crawled through his gut at the mingled thoughts.

"Its stirred a mynocks nest, that's for sure." Padmé intoned as she swept back and forth. She was wearing a blue gown that fell across her body, with a white sash pulled to her waist. Her hair kept back with a simple band along with a metal hair dress piece that looked like a crescent moon turned upwards.

"The Senate is having a field day with this. My comm and my office have been hit with innumerable messages. Everyone from Bail, Mon, and even the Queen want to know what's going on! Or, what I think."

"What's this whole session about anyways?" Anakin asked, muting the news and twisting to his side over the couch to look at her.

"The…" Padmé shook her head and seemed at a momentary loss for words. As with the day before Anakin could tell something was bothering her...something she wasn't sharing. It gave him another ill feeling, but he forced it away. It had to just be work. Yes, that's it.

"The Chancellor's office has submitted to the Senate a proposal."

"On what exactly?" Anakin pressed.

"Request for a debate and vote concerning the position the Republic and the Jedi Order share regarding prisoners. Some language to that affect. Essentially my debrief indicates he wants to 'discuss' adjusting the ancient treaties the Jedi Order and the Republic have concerning prisoners of war, or enemies of the state who are Force sensitive. That...mob outside the Temple have put some senators up in arms. Many of them demand the Order hand over Dooku. Somehow the Order is to blame for this foolishness."

She shook her head. Anakin for his part rose to a stand and moved around the sofa. Catching her mid walk between her day bag and a table full of notes, datapads and other things she usually took to work with her.

"Whoa, slow down there."

"Ani, I can't." Was her immediate reply. Her body heated with movement, clearly she was flustered. "This day was already going to be busy, and this has just made it twice as busy. I need to get all my things together."

"You will, and you'll be fine. You'll also be great. So, just pause a minute." Anakin prompted. Catching her chin in a clasp of his fingers. Tilting her to look up into his eyes. "Is everything alright? You seem a bit...off."

"I, yes, Ani." She assured. A thin smile crawling along her face. She reached up and their lips met. A brilliant and wondrous small moment. Both closing their eyes. Allowing the feeling of one another to wash over themselves. "Today is just proving to be rough. And, it hasn't even started yet." She tilted her head. A mischievous glint in her brown eyes. "Though, I suppose not so rough for a big time war hero, like yourself. Master Jedi." She teased and Anakin huffed a laugh. Though the term 'Master' had struck him for a fraction of a second. He pushed it down.

"All work is still work. No fun at all."

"You have to make your work fun if you hope to find some meaning."

"True." Anakin shrugged. "But, I don't think politics is all too fun. Well, maybe for some. But, they're usually crazy."

"Oh, so that's what you think of me?"

"You married me, so...yeah." They both laughed and her smile lit up his world all over again. But, in a moment after her eyes were distant again. The Force whispering of her agitation and apprehension for the day to come. Or, so Anakin assumed.

"You go do your job. I'll stay with the twins for a few hours before I need to head to the Executive and meet with the Chancellor." Anakin ran both hands up and down her arms. Guiding them beneath the silky fabric to her bare skin. "I'll see what's what when I see him. And, talk about the other stuff we discussed yesterday."

"With everything that's happening I don't know if that's wise. At least not anymore."

"What's the worst that could happen?" Anakin shrugged again. Firmly believing what he said at that. Though Padmé cocked a brow, but didn't say whatever had just crossed her mind there.

"Kriff! I gotta go!" Padmé cursed upon checking the wall chrono. Anakin tilted to look at it.

"When's this session?"

"An hour! But, I have to get all my affairs in order before the official start! I want to be there for the whole thing."

"Do keep me up to speed on whatever gets brought up huh?" Anakin idly prompted and crossed his arms. Watching her throw a few datapads into her bag. She swung around. Her cheeks flush from the sudden rush. She smiled his way and nodded.

"Will do, Ani. If you need anything or have any questions about the twins just ask Threepio! He knows everything!" She waved and all but ran for the door. Anakin waved back. Knowing she couldn't see.

"Love you!"

"And you!" She called back, and like that she was gone. A smile graced him, but it was temporary. Anakin looked back to the HoloNet projection and all its detailed colored glory. Though muted Anakin watched as the man from before, Jorus, pointed towards the Temple gates. In the distance Anakin could see a line of peacekeepers. They didn't look happy at all. Anakin couldn't rightly blame them for how they must've felt either.

It wasn't that Jedi couldn't feel or didn't feel all spectrum of emotions. As the common people were often to assume. It was that you let the moment pass, and don't let the feelings control you. Which wasn't exactly what he'd call an easy feat. He sometimes wondered how people like Obi-Wan could do it so effectively? Though he supposed it was a little late to consider the means to properly control one's emotions. Anakin would know all about lacking some semblance of self control.

To that end, Anakin could tell many among the peacekeepers, even from a distance were having that problem today. So many of them looked pensive, sour. Eyes glaring at the mess further off from the temple itself. While Anakin also saw alongside them Master Drallig, Master Windu, and the Gatekeeper, Master Jurokk.

"I can only imagine what Obi-Wan is thinking." Anakin intoned. Though such a thought brought about another that struck at him. Flashes of his friends from Arda!

"I certainly hope they got the kriffing delegation out of there before this happened!" Anakin searched the Force for an answer to his open question He couldn't be totally sure of course, but he did feel as though they had been. Which was of some small comfort. "Whole galaxy...the whole damn galaxy and Republic has lost its damn mind!" He groaned aloud and threw his arms out at his sides. Letting them fall with unceremonious a ruffle and crash.

Before he could think on it anymore though, Anakin felt a slight disturbance. More a probe through the Force. He turned his attention to the adjoining hallway. Where, the second after the sensation, came the sound of a crying baby. A flush of emotion passed through him. A compulsion to run and see what was wrong. Old worries and new instincts kicking in as a shock to his system. A father's defensive instinct and love, and a sufferer of losses, conviction and worry.

Anakin dashed down the hall in as controlled a run as he could muster. Swung around the doorway entrance. His heart beating a little faster than expected, and breath slightly caught. Only to be greeted by the sight of Threepio and Artoo surrounding the crib.

"Oh, Master Anakin! A pleasure to see you, sir. Young Master Luke has just woken up for feeding! I assume Mistress Padmé has left?"

"Ye...yes she has Threepio." Anakin answered. To which Artoo warbled and spun his domed head.

"Oh do hush you! I was merely being sure, Artoo!" Threepio chided. Anakin shook his head as they bantered. Ever the oddest of all married couples in all but name...and practice. Whatever, it was a funny thought to him. Artoo for his part bobbed back and forth and loosed a whirl of 'beeps' and 'boops.'

"I did not wake Master Luke up! I was merely checking to see if he was still asleep!" Artoo then said something rather harsh, if Anakin was being fair. "Oh, you witless can of bolts! He knows nothing of child rearing, Master Ani. I assure you."

"Alright settle down you two. Go ahead and hand me Luke, will ya' Threepio?"

"Of course, sir!" Threepio reached down as the baby cried. Though it was intermittent. His little blue eyes still shut, and groggily opening and closing. Anakin knew that feeling all too well. Threepio handed Luke to Anakin as carefully as he could. Anakin smiled down and placed Luke into the crook of his arm. Swaying himself slightly as he did. Using the Force to calm his son. Though he could sense his twin was rousing in the crib as well.

"Grab Leia, Threepio. Let's uh...lets get these two fed! I think I know...you know how right Threepio?"

"Oh, of course Master Ani! I am well versed in-"

"Good, good!" Anakin cut his dear old friend off. "Just grab her, and gently! Follow me and...walk me through the process. For...posterity."

"Oh, well of course, sir!" Threepio happily chirped and bent down to grab Leia. Artoo laughing in his binary at Threepio...or Anakin. He didn't know, but he let his little astromech friend have a laugh at his expense. Smiling, Anakin nudged his neck out the door.

"Everyone follow me. We have to secure the kitchen." Artoo warbled another laugh and Threepio trudged carefully after. "Hmm," Anakin hummed as he bent his face down and nuzzled Luke's forehead. "I think before the day is out I have some people who'd love to meet you!" Anakin grinned. "But, for now let's get some food in this stomach. You too princess!" Anakin turned and called to Leia.

All felt good once again.

---

"Just sign here, sir." The young officer pointed along the datapad, and Taruk nodded. He grabbed the datapad from the officer. Both of them stood at the pinnacle of Minas Tirith. The spot, his almighty and wise lordship, King Elessar, allowed the Republic ships to land. Well here and out in the plains, but Taruk wasn't about to mount a damn horse to get out there. The whiff...

"Right, so when will the shipments arrive?" Taruk asked, handing the datapad back.

"The first one will be here in...oh let's see...two days about, sir." The officer hummed, and clicked his tongue as he had reviewed the same datapad. Taruk was in no mood to read it himself. The man seemed amiable enough to do that for him anyways. "Second was just requisitioned by...ah by yourself, sir!" The young man, clearly of Coruscanti origin laughed. Or, he seemed a bit flustered and embarrassed. He was probably a newer recruit. Good as far as Taruk was concerned. All the better for him to not ask unwanted questions.

"Em...right, uh your requisition order for personal amenities...says it'll be here in about five days, so standard arrival time, sir."

"Good lad." Taruk smiled and the young man did so as well. The LAAT behind him sitting idly with three clone troopers standing wordlessly within the hold. "Tell me, how is Captain Nivers these days?" Taruk probed after the name Arsuna had mentioned the day prior. The boy's brow creased, but then he recoiled with memory.

"Right! Captain Nivers. He's good, sir."

"Will he be handing the shipments over to my person, or is that your job, son?" Taruk asked. Knowing full well he was only ordered to speak more frankly with this Nigel Nivers.

"Right, no I'm just on confirmations duty today, Delegate Koll, sir. This is basically just bureaucracy. Captain Nivers will be on the supply drop offs himself. So, I believe at least. Lest of course he can't and is called away. In which case I assure you I'm more than capable of a shipment run."

"I don't doubt it, lad." Taruk feigned another smile and bowed his head. "My thanks, corporal. Alas, I have some duties in need of attending. Do send me a copy of those forms eh?"

"Will do, sir!" The officer gave a salute. "Alright," The corporal turned to the troopers. "Get that crate unloaded men!" They did as told without question. This delivery being nothing more than some actual personal amenities. Office supplies, datapads, some flimsy, a few well furnished lamps and a plush pillow, so he hoped. These locals didn't know comfortable living if it hit them as far as Taruk was concerned.

It would take a while. But the troopers would haul the crate back down to the lower level and into Koll's office and residence. They heaved and dropped it down onto the ground where he had pointed a spot out. Allowing them the chance to get out sooner rather than later. He did prefer to do the unload himself. Soldiers were hardly the most gentle with goods far above their pay grade anyways. That, and he had a few smuggled trinkets he'd rather not risk clones getting an eye of. Nothing fancy of course. Just some gold necklaces, silver rings, a gemstone. Some faker than others. All in the name of necessary business should a quick bribe be needed. One these people would likely appreciate more than Republic credits.

"Ah, here we are!" Taruk laughed. His hands picking up a band of golden rings brought together in a low hung chain of a necklace. "Look at you! An absolute beauty...if gaudy. Should be worth something to somebody." Taruk scoffed. Thinking about what amounted to 'lordly' around these parts. He pocketed the necklace and dug through the crate for the other goods. Packed away in a compartment attached to a few books he had sent to him from his own trusted associates in the lower echelons of the Diplomatic Services who knew the ways of wheeling and dealing.

He then heard his holocomm begin to whir. A very audible and honest sigh passed from past his lips. He swung his head back and stared at the ceiling. Just knowing without knowing who it was that was calling.

"Can't you leave me be for one moment anymore?!" Taruk threw his hands out and wondered aloud. He snatched the mobile comlink he had and checked it. It was remotely synced with the holocomm unit in his table and he saw the callers address was most definitely from Coruscant. He rolled his eyes and huffed before pressing the remote answer button and pocketed his comlink again. The sound of the buzzing hologram manifested behind him, but he did not bother turning to look at Lady Sipillona.

"You are beginning to become less so studious and careful, and more what I would call paranoid!" Taruk began with a heavy exasperated sigh. "I am working as best I can to get done what needs get done. I don't constantly need you or anyone else watching over me and dictating my every move or monitoring me at all times. I've made all the arrangements I could. I've got time on my side. I've got people working with me. The only one who is a constant thorn in the side, and I am sorry to say this, my Lady, is yo-" Taruk swung only to see...not Lady Sipillona. Not Lady Sipillona at all...

"Your...your Excellency!"

"Is that how you greet all callers, Delegate Koll, is it?" Supreme Chancellor Palpatine himself asked. The elder man casting an inquisitive eye upon him. Taruk dropped the parcel box he held and flattened his robes.

"I am honored that you would call so simple a man as myself, your Excellency! Oh, and no, no of course not!" Taruk sputtered. He felt his face flush hot in embarrassment and no small amount of fright. "I apologize, sir! I uh...I've been dealing with others from the Diplomatic Corps and associated offices with my extended official transfer here to Arda! Not...not that I'm complaining or anything, sir! I promise you I'm doing my utmost for the Republic and for the people of this world." Taruk smiled and bowed deeply at his waist. His neck growing exceptionally hot, and a stray bead of sweat already forming along the top of his brow.

"Settle down, Delegate Koll. You're quite alright." Palpatine smiled and waved him down. "Your job must require much presence, and concentration. However, I am not calling for any official business. Well, not entirely official at least."

"Oh?" Taruk hummed. Clasping his hands together at his waist. "Then how may I be of service to you, Supreme Chancellor? And, might I say, I along with all of my colleagues were beyond exuberant when news reached us of your safe return from the clutches of that madman, Grievous!" Palpatine gave a momentary smile, but it vanished quickly as his demeanor turned serious.

"You have my thanks for that, Delegate. Now, onto business."

"Yes, of course, sir." Taruk bowed his head.

"I have become fascinated with the local cultures of that world you're on. The delegation that's arrived from it have yet to meet with me, but I imagine there will come an informal summit sooner or later." Palpatine explained. "To that end I would like to research the; I am sure quite intricate and sordid, histories of the people and planet. I am in need of documentation. Local knowledge." Palpatine smirked. "Nothing would make me prouder than to impress our guests with some knowledge they would not expect me to know."

"Ah, a cunning move, your Grace!" Taruk enthusiastically adulated. "The city I'm currently in, Minas Tirith, it has quite an extensive library and records house. I think I can persuade the King here to allow me access for research. I can make copies on datapads for you as well sir! Some of them have the amazing function of copying texts with but a picture!" Taruk laughed. Though such technological marvel was more than common knowledge. He smacked himself internally for making so big a deal out of nothing.

"That would be lovely, Delegate Koll." Taruk sighed as Palpatine thinly smiled again. "Do get me everything you can. However, I have heard of these local sentients...these elves." Palpatine went on. "I am quite fascinated by the reports received from the Jedi. As such, when you sift through the library or records houses do be sure to focus your efforts on any and all documentation pertaining to these elves. Whether it be history, lore or whatever else subject wise."

"You have my assurances, your Eminence! In fact I will get on it as soon as our call is done, sir!"

"Ah, excellent." Palpatine clapped his hands together. "Then you may begin now, Delegate. I have much work to do."

"Oh, yes yes of course, sir! Please, do take care of yourself. And, once again forgive my rudeness from before!"

"Take care of yourself, Delegate." Palpatine finished. His eyes fixed onto him, and a thin smile still remaining on his features. Before he finally faded from view. Taruk breathed a shaky sigh. He did not know entirely why that had put so much pressure on him, but it had. Well, no. He knew part of it was the fact he and Arsuna were doing what they were doing. But...for all that he was, and Palpatine was much that Taruk felt was good for the galaxy. The man had a certain...power to him. One that if you were smart you would do well to pay homage to. Or, that's at least what Taruk felt.

"Well...great!" Taruk proclaimed to the air. "Now I have another task to do! And, this one for the Chancellor himself! I love this karking planet...I absolutely love it." He whispered with exasperated and weary sigh. Forcing himself not to find his brandy and chug half the bottle as he did so. In fact he had to request access to the kriffing library and records now. Best he remained as sober as possible. Taruk had lots of collecting to do. Cross cultural exchange, he believed it was called?

---

"This is nothing less than an utter travesty! A total joke!" Bail shook his head as both he and Padmé made their way through the massive halls of the Senate. She had rarely ever seen her friend this upset. But, she could see his eyes were darkened much like his mood. In his hand he clutched a datapad so firmly one would worry it'd snap in his grasp.

"Bail, slow down."

"I can't!" He seethed, but then regained his composure with a shake of his head. "I can't. I just want to get to my platform. Will you join me?"

"Yes, of course." Padmé nodded. In fairness to Bail, it wasn't just him. The air throughout the entire Senate was tense. Not since the Separatist attack had she felt this place so full of energy. Not good energy either. The halls were lined with men and women and all various types of sentient beings. All in conversation. Deep, loud, quiet. All of them whispering about the riot outside the Jedi Temple. All in conference on the amendment to ancient Republic law and codes pushed by the Supreme Chancellor. Padmé knew more than anything else that was what upset Bail.

Not that he too wouldn't be and wasn't horrified by the display shown by the citizens outside the temple. However, Palpatine taking that extra step and demanding further changes not even to the Constitution, but ancient treaties that had been in place for tens of thousands of years? She couldn't say she didn't understand his anger. Especially since this man, since Palpatine, was now directly asking to affect the institution her husband resided within and operated out from. Anakin was already roped into everything with the previous days addition to the Chancellor's emergency powers. Now it just seemed like more was being demanded. Even if one thought it was relatively minor compared to all else. What was already given was too much.

The two senators swept to the side along the massive circular hallway. An entrance stood waiting and on either side stood Alderaanian security guards. Two men with fine robes, and single silver blasters who said nothing, but bowed their heads at the sight of their Senator and Prince. Padmé said nothing, sweeping passed them and joining Bail onto his senatorial platform. Where inside the convocation chamber the crowds were already bustling. Much louder than the halls full of aides, attendants, the secondary delegates, representatives and a few of the newly installed governors. Padmé took a seat beside Bail. Whom in kind loosed a sigh and set his jaw. Silently watching and listening as the main podium began to rise from the center.

An expected quiet overcame the chamber at that sight and sound. All watched with bated breath and anticipation as Palpatine sat upon the seat of the central podium. At his side was the ever silently present Sly Moore and Vice Chancellor Amedda. All the while as three or so cam droids began circling the chamber with more speed, and attention.

The podium rose. Standing tall, but seeming so small from so high a place. Yet, the man who sat upon it towered over everyone else present. Vice Chancellor Amedda rose and everyone awaited his call.

"The Senate will now come to order!" He began. His voice barking and echoing. Carried by the strength of his lungs, but also by the expertly placed microphones hidden about the central chair.

"The Senate is now in session. The Chair recognizes the Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic." Amedda announced, and a flurry of claps sounded. Its echo reverberating the room. Padmé watched as Bail didn't join in. As didn't a number of faces she knew more personally than the others. She didn't much feel like doing so either.

"Thank you, Vice Chancellor Amedda." Palpatine began. "It is with great sadness I have called for this meeting of the Galactic Senate today. As we are all aware, I am sure by now, a profoundly lawless scene has graced our capitol the night prior. Thugs who carried themselves as loyal subjects to the Republic. Brandishing the symbols of the COMPOR organization. An organization which, I might add, has denounced those criminals involved." Another round of cheers and applause, but more subdued. "The Jedi Order should be made bluntly aware that the Galactic Republic is a government of laws. Laws that apply to all. As all are equal before the law. So, that is the claim." Palpatine carried on. His voice firm, rising and strong even for one his age. "We should ever devote ourselves towards that common purpose. Of lawfulness in a galaxy so teeming with lawlessness. When we see our streets filled with a rabble intent on causing or bringing harm to those who have done no such crime then we should be, and we are: utterly, unabashedly, unashamedly and totally appalled!" To that crescendo the chamber erupted in applause mingled with jubilant cheers. For the sentiment both Padmé and Bail found the strength to clap. Though it was not in any way meant for the Chancellor himself.

"To that end," Palpatine began after the roar of the chamber calmed. A stray cam droid zooming in close and circling the chamber. "Let nobody present misjudge why I have put before this body the proposal in question. Some of us, and I do think them the more cynical among our body politic, will claim this is a power grab. They will equate this proposal with the preceding amendments this body adopted not three days ago. However, let us be fair. The facts are that those emergency and temporary measures were introduced by majority vote of the Senate. To facilitate expedited communications and coordination between myself, my office and the Jedi Order. Nothing more and nothing less." Another but more subdued bout of applause followed.

"Let that all be said, senators. However," Palpatine raised a finger and wagged it about the air. "What we must also acknowledge is exactly what led to the rousing of anger in the populace itself. Because if we fail to do so then we will only be allowing for further violence to manifest. Without finding the root we will not know where the tainted waters lay. So, to put it more bluntly let us review the matter at hand concerning one, Count Dooku." To the name many boos, hisses and cries of disdain filled the convocation chamber. Padmé could only shake her head. This seemed less a Senate meeting and more a drama hall, or comedy club. The Senate little more than the crowd, and the Chancellor the man on stage.

"He's going to need the Senate to authorize him to rewrite ancient procedures and treaties made at the founding itself." Bail whispered. His fist above his mouth both somewhat muting his speech and blocking his lips. "What do you think, my Lady?" Bail twisted to meet Padmé's eyes. "Do you think he has the votes?"

"I…" Padmé began. Herself returning to scanning the chamber. Noting the dazed and obsequies audience with which Palpatine was speaking to. The total self enslavement, the personality driven mastery Palpatine wielded. More and more her heart told her that there were words and titles more suiting Palpatine than 'Chancellor.' She still struggled with it. This man had been a friend to her. For as much as she knew he still was a friend to her. But, she couldn't deny at least silently and to herself what he was becoming.

"I think that he has enough of them in his pocket that it's a forgone conclusion." Padmé intoned. Darkly and solemnly. Bail nodded and his own mood was hardly improved from the earlier walk.

"-we cannot hope to facilitate an equitable society if our prisoners, or our criminals, guilty or innocent are not given the fair treatment before said laws of the Galactic Republic. If surely the Jedi Order are due justice before the law then so too must be any and all criminals of any background?" Palpatine supposed and again the chamber was littered with varying states of applause here and there. "Count Dooku is not simply some fallen Jedi, Dark Jedi, or even one of these so called Sith Lords. Rather, he is chiefly and openly an enemy of the state!" The chamber erupted, and as the cheering struck all the cronies Palpatine did not stop. "An...an enemy of the state," He spoke through the clapping. "That for years has been the cause, direct or indirect of crimes against galactic society! A man whom for all his regal mannerisms and subtleties is little else than a brute. One who unleashed that murderous droid Grievous upon the galaxy entire! Who instigated the beginnings of the Separatist Crisis that predicated the beginning of these wretched so called Clone Wars! So, let me be even more clear!" Palpatine carried on. A fire undoubtedly and undeniably within his voice as Padmé shook her head. Hating that she could not disagree on the fundamental points he made.

"Let me be more clear!" Palpatine repeated, recapturing the rowdy crowd. "What I propose is not an attack upon the Jedi Order, and its long lasting alliance, and friendship with the Republic. Rather, it is a means by which we may all of us come to our senses and understand Count Dooku of Serenno is a criminal to the galaxy entire! Not a Jedi criminal responsible for Jedi crimes. Not a petty criminal responsible for petty crimes, and not a Sith criminal responsible for Sith crimes. He is a criminal that has enacted his terror and war upon the Republic, and seeing as the Republic as a whole is the galaxy, his crimes are upon the galaxy entire. So, as to not belabor the point," Palpatine added with the barest hint of breathlessness. "The Republic made these treaties long ago. Tens of thousands of years before the moment we stand now. Tens of thousands of years before Ruusan and the reformations made to our Republic then. The politics and realities of yesterday are not the realities and needs of today. We must be practical, and we must be honest. The riot outside the Jedi Temple was precipitated by the common view that the Jedi harbor those who have killed dozens to the upper millions. Upon a premise that because the victimizer can feel and use the Force that the Republic is ill equipped to keep such men or women incarcerated." Palpatine explained and held both hands out and opened.

"If that be the case then perhaps we should ask why the Jedi cannot work alongside us rather than adopt all criminals of such means into their fold? Is it not possible that the Republic hold the criminals that are deserving our due process with Jedi aid? Can we not rely on the Jedi to safeguard our prisoners? Should they, in fact, prove too powerful for men with blasters, or our wonderful clone troopers to manage. Or, is the premise that instead of the Jedi offering their assistance they rescind it only because they themselves want such prisoners under their control? If so, then the obvious question remains as a singular word. 'Why?'" Another round of applause from the senators and representatives most tied to Palpatine's boots.

"The Republic that was founded twenty-five thousand years before now cannot be the standard by which we practice law and order today! My proposal is quite simple. We amend the ancient treaties formed between the Republic and the Jedi Oder. As it was ratified by the Senate of the time with special oversight and privilege. With this amendment and expedited ratification the Republic will assume all responsibility good or ill for the taking of prisoners who have wronged our civilization. With or without the approval or aid of the Jedi, if need be." Palpatine noted with lament in his voice. "For, those who commit criminal acts; like those men outside the Jedi Temple, must be brought to justice before the equal eyes of the law. The Galactic law, the Republic's law!" The convocation chamber again erupted in applause and cheers. Though Padmé could still see many among her core group, and signers of the growing petition did not clap. If they did, and there were a few, it was so small and subtle as to be meaningless. Likely agreeing with some principle of Palpatine's statement as opposed to the actual statement itself. So, Padmé would guess from a distance.

"With that, Vice Chancellor, I yield the chamber floor." Palpatine retook his seat and silence passed as Mas Amedda retook his standing command of the chamber. The blue chagrian man eyed the vast room for a moment before he cleared his throat.

"Thank you, Supreme Chancellor. With that I propose a motion to move the proposal onto the floor for a vote." To that there was a soft murmuring of voices. Not quite as loud or abrasive as the cheering before. Bail shook his head and Padmé saw him tilt his eyes to the nearby Mon who was of similar look to Bail. Their eyes met momentarily before Bail then turned to Padmé.

"You may want to leave my podium."

"Why?" Padmé questioned with creased brow. But, scanning his eyes she then realized what he had on his mind. "What are you going to do?" She asked anyways.

"I'm not going to allow him to circumvent both the procedural votes and the committee hearings just because of what happened at the temple. I refuse, my Lady! I think...I think we have enough support to place a hold on this."

"To what end?" Padmé asked as Amedda waited a few seconds longer for the rumblings to end. Hoping for a silent relinquishing of his motion.

"To show that some semblance of this institution still has a function. To show that the Senate is not so full of cronies and the beholden as to rubber stamp everything the Chancellor wants! I refuse. The Amendments, the Governors, now this? It will not end because no one will stand as a roadblock. I refuse to step out of the way and be but another observer as history is made. A history I have no desire to look back on and say this was where it started." Bail gave a grave, and Padmé believed perhaps slightly hyperbolic opinion. She couldn't necessarily argue with him, however.

"I'm comfortable where I am, Bail." Padmé gave a faint smile. Even if her eyes betrayed palpable intensity of the situation that she felt. For his part, Bail smiled his thanks and then rose to a sudden swift stand. Like a blur of motion and color.

"I object to the motion, and stand to speak, mister Vice Chair!" Bail commanded with his voice louder than Padmé was used to. Everyone in the convocation looked to him and the cam droid zoomed over to grab a closeup. A series of not unexpected boos and hisses met Bail, but for the most part it was quiet. Even as Amedda gave Bail a side-eye that Padmé could feel rather than see the ire of.

"The Chair recognizes, Senator Organa of Alderaan." Amedda acquiesced. Though the Vice Chancellor was very blatant and exaggerated with a weary sigh as he retook his own seat. For his part, Bail stepped forward and pressed the detach button on the pod. The repulsorlift activated and it began free floating in a programmed manner through the convocation chamber.

"To begin, let me just say that I appreciate that the Supreme Chancellor has seen fit to remind the Senate of our long enduring friendship with the Jedi Order. In fact I commend him for the retelling of the historical significance of that alliance, and when it was forged. What I find strange is how we are predicating this discussion on a further breaking with our political norms on the acts committed by criminals on the steps of the Jedi Temple. How is it that a band of COMPOR thugs who could not restrain themselves has led this body to take up motions that would hurt our esteemed partnership with the Jedi?" Bail asked, and there were murmurs. Mostly in agreement, but mostly from those Padmé would expect. "What we send as a message to all systems, to all sectors, and to all worlds, is that the Republic is willing to rewrite entire laws. It is willing to nullify ancient treaty and normative standing because of the misdeeds of criminals! Where we should be passing legislation of some meaning and regard towards hunting down those who killed temple security forces and fired on the Jedi peacekeepers present! No criminal no matter what badge they wear or flag they wave should in fact be held as charged before the law? Is that not what the Chancellor argues?" Bail re-positioned Palpatine's argument and focused it back onto the rioters. The convocation chamber was littered with applause. While others did boo and stand to jeer Bail. Not a wholly uncommon sight even on good days, of course.

"Order!" Amedda jumped into a stand and barked. "We shall have order!" It took another moment but the chamber did finally hush itself.

"Thank you Vice Chancellor." Bail began with a bow of his head. The podium slowly swung around. Both Bail and Padmé rising up towards the upper levels as Bail began again. "What are the facts? We have very few as the investigation at this moment is ongoing and pending review. We know that credible eyewitnesses on the ground last night witnessed agitators within the COMPOR rally fire bolts into the security forces. Injuring one man, and killing another. That, regardless of how exactly the security personnel was killed, is fact! A man was murdered by the mob!"

"Objection!" Came another voice. All eyes and heads turned and beheld Senator, Simon Greyshade. Representing his homeworld of Columex and the entire Vorzyd Sector in the Outer-Rim. Part of the Commonality. A league of five sectors that acted often times as swing votes when the senate was tightly split.

"I rise to take issue with what the Senator from Alderaan has stated."

"The Chair recognizes Senator Greyshade of Columex." Amedda easily allowed. As expected. Followed by Greyshade moving his podium out to float through the chamber like Bail's.

"The riot was formed out of what we were all clearly able to see was nothing more than a peaceful rally conducted by members of the COMPOR organization. Who were in fact rallying for the turning over of the criminal Dooku from the Jedi Order. Who had, at the will of their own, taken him into the depths of their temple without even the common decency of asking the Republic to do so!"

"That is because for thousands of years, Senator," Bail began with a clear voice. "The Order has had the privilege of taking such criminals into their care. Whilst also being given ability under their mandate; as signed by the Republic, to handle their prisoners as seen fit!"

"Ah, so we agree then? The Order has in fact exercised this power that none of us have really given them?" Senator Greyshade pointed his hands into his chest with sarcastic venom. His hair beginning to gray but well kempt. His suit flashy and expensive. His mustache trimmed and beginning to twist along the ends. Padmé though, mostly knew Greyshade as one of the most corrupt men in the Senate. Well that and the fact he never forgave Anakin for...borrowing his speeder to chase after Obi-Wan during the assassination attempt made on her life. Seemingly ages ago now.

"-the principle of your point, Senator?" Padmé snapped as Bail finished asking Greyshade something.

"Your point is moot, Senator Organa!" Greyshade scoffed with a wave of his hand. "The Jedi have taken advantage of this ancient treaty and 'mandate' that has existed between their Order and the Republic. Count Dooku is not some fallen Jedi who ran off and tried to join a mercenary band. Or take over the Exchange or Black Sun. This is a criminal, mass murderer for whom the Republic has a vested interest in prosecuting to the furthest extent of the law!" To that Greyshade got a sweeping barrage of cheers from Palpatine's most ardent supporters. "To not do so, and to allow Dooku to remain in the pampering hands of the Jedi sends a message that the Republic is willing to forgo criminal charges! As long as you were once a Jedi, or have a member of the Order intercede on your behalf and take you prisoner of the Order itself. To be punished and...what?" He snarkily laughed. "Be sent to some nice agri-world to spend your days growing food as punishment for mass murder? Oh what a wretched fate awaits!" Greyshade continued to mock with a new sound following. A chorus of laughter that echoed through the chamber at Bail's expense and mockery.

"Order!" Well, at least Amedda still didn't like that blatant show.

"What we are also not discussing, Senator Organa," Greyshade began again. "Is the fact citizens were killed on the outer steps of the Jedi Temple. Men shot by and killed by those same security forces you mentioned before. Now, we can argue over whom fired the first bolt until the day is done, but there is no moral supremacy on either side of this affair. Except for the people of the Republic whom are now witnessing this sad travesty of inaction in government. Prosecuted by none other than yourself, Senator! I yield the floor." Again Greyshade received a volley of applause that echoed through the chamber. The man had scoffed. Flicking his fingers as though Bail was just dust or flecks of dirt to him. Bail remained firm, however, and did not show any outward signs that he had been affected. Though Padmé knew from personal experience such a response made you feel helpless. Bail did a good job of showing strength over that internal struggle, she felt.

"The fact remains, regardless, of how you may feel about the moral equivocation; between whom shot and who responded in kind. That asking the Senate to rewrite ancient treaty under special provision and purview of the Senate to expedite the criminal process sets a terrible precedent!" Bail commanded with a baritone that was rare for him and was sure to catch some attention both here and on the HoloNet.

"We have amended the constitution and rewritten common law, changed the normal practices and functions of government. All within the timeline of this terrible, and unprecedented war! Emergency powers, emergency measures, so on and so forth. All within the narrative that desperate times call for desperate measures. What we discuss now is radically different from the norm because we want Dooku's head! That is the blatant naked truth!" Murmurs, jeers, some applause and mix of other sounds came out to that statement.

"Thus, with this in mind, I propose a motion!" Bail hollered over the crowd. To which Mas Amedda could be seen scowling. Whilst the silent Supreme Chancellor remained stoic. Showing no emotion, and no response. "I propose we submit this proposal back down from this floor vote into committee for review!" To that a loud eruption of boos and jeers sounded. Padmé could only shake her head to which.

"Ever idle." She intoned sadly to herself.

"We move the motion through the normal committee process! We do not expedite this proposed bill rescinding ancient law predating even the Ruusan Reformations! I propose and put forward a request for a floor vote upon my position, mister Vice Chancellor!" The jeering, booing, waves of thumbs down, and hateful, spiteful venom did not cease. For his part Mas eyed the chamber, but did eventually rise. Putting his quieting hand up.

"Order! We'll have Order in the chamber!" It still took a while for everyone to calm down. Even when it did finally come the random hiss would manage to sneak its way in.

"In order to put forward a motion for return to committee, or in this instance into committee, Senator, you will require a seconding of the motion." Amedda, with clear indignation, reminded Bail.

"I second the motion, mister Vice Chancellor!" Padmé jumped to a stand. Just as with Bail many within the chamber booed her, but she would not be affected by it. She would stand with the principles she shared with Bail. Like he said, and not be an idle onlooker.

"I third the motion!" All turned, and the rancor in the chamber did not relent as Mon Mothma rose. As a new chorus, subdued, but strong rose. A fourth for the motion and a fifth and so on. Just as the booing now remained steady.

"Order! Order in the Chamber!" Amedda roared and cast that same indignant eye upon the members of the senate. "Good." He intoned to the renewed silence.

"The motion is carried. The Senate will now vote on the proposed motion, as presented by Senator Organa of Alderaan. For this procedural vote on a return of the bill into committee, the ayes require one-third among the Senate." Amedda reminded everyone. The hushed murmurs return. Everyone wondering to themselves or their seated companions if there was enough in the Senate for a whole third among them to vote on Bail's motion.

"The Senate will recess for a time of thirty standard minutes. After which we shall reconvene and vote on the motion." Amedda pressed a button that was the convocation's version of a loud gavel. Ancient procedure still lived! Even if it took on new forms.

"Do you think we have enough for a third of the Senate to vote, Bail?" Padmé asked as their pod slowly returned to its position. The many other members inside the Senate shuffling back out into the Senate Building proper. Whilst others huddled where they sat unmoved, and others sitting sourly and disinterested.

"Yes...I think we may need to win just a few votes, but give me those thirty minutes, and I think I can make it happen." Bail smiled. "As long as I also have yours, my Lady?"

"Of course, Senator." Padmé smiled back and the two bowed. Both turning and leaving the chamber. Bail quick to shuffle into the mashed crowd of Senators in discussion among themselves and their fellows. Gone to find those votes. Padmé wished him success.

Today was in to be a long one for sure.

---

L's Note: I got this edited a lot quicker than even I thought possible! Haha! Anyways, as usual if you find any really bad grammar issues lemme know and I'll fix them. I have done a fairly decent editing job on this one I feel. though it is wordy so I will likely return to this one in the future. Please leave your reviews as you see and feel fit!

NOTE: To those of you who have not seen Lord Kun's message inThe Arda Campaign, I feel I must restate his position. ANY and ALL story elements from the Clone Wars 2008 show are being ignored! The show is entirely inconsistent with Grievous backstory and aspects of lore and history in this story as well. After all Ahsoka does not exist in this fanfic. Sorry, but she doesn't. Nor will she as far as I am aware. Now, to disappoint people I want you to consider some characters who have been brought up in your reviews as being part of this story. Well since they only came back because of the 2008 Clone Wars show I advise you all to rethink your theories. You may or may not again like where this story goes, but that is for the author, Lord Kun, to write. Either accept it when it comes, or don't. If you don't, bye! Don't let the door hit your ass on the way out. :D

The only things adopted from the 2008 Clone Wars show are planets/systems if they fit with prior canon within the Legends continuity as disney canon is TOTALLY and UTTERLY ignored. As well as technology such as BX Commando droids or hyena-class bombers.

DSICLAIMER: Any and all similarities this chapter/story has with real life events are entirely coincidental and quite frankly...sad.

-L

Edit Note: Edited/Updated 9/3/2021