The two managed to get a little bit of sleep that night, despite the uncomfortable accommodations. They were rudely awakened by their jailers, who dragged them back up to the throne room. Once there, they were shoved to the side, allowed to watch as Satine dialed the Senate.

No one seemed particularly excited to see her, but there was no outright hostility at first. "Duchess," the Chancellor greeted her, as if he had not just authorized the invasion of her home. "What can I do for you?"

Satine didn't seem nearly as happy to see him. "Call off the invasion of my system. We are more than capable of defending ourselves. We've held off your troops quite successfully already. Leave us to protect our homeland in peace."

"I'm afraid I can't do that, Duchess. There are already two more battalions on their way to your planet as we speak. We cannot leave your system undefended, especially with your decision to keep Mandalore as a neutral, pacifistic society."

Satine gestured with her hand, and her guards dragged Anakin and Obi-Wan into view of the transmission. "I currently have both of your generals in custody. Do you still believe we're incapable of defending ourselves? Withdraw your troops, or these two will suffer for your foolishness."

"I cannot just…" The chancellor trailed off as one of the guards drew back, punching Obi-Wan in the stomach, causing him to double over in pain.

"Do not test me, chancellor. I may be a pacifist, but I am also a Mandalorian."

"Very well." The chancellor conceded. "Release them, and we will remove our troops."

Satine shook her head. "I will release one of them now. But the other I will keep, until your forces are completely withdrawn. I will not give up my leverage so easily."

The transmission cut off, as Satine gestured again to her guards. They unlocked the bindings around Anakin's wrists. "Master Skywalker, you are free to go. If you would ensure that your end of the bargain is upheld, I would be extremely grateful. Remember that I am still holding your friend until I see proof that your people intend to honor their word."

Anakin bowed. "Please, release Obi-Wan. There is no reason to keep him here, and he's already injured."

"No." Satine said firmly, although her eyes strayed to Obi-Wan's injuries. "If you want your friend back, remove your men from my planet. The sooner you do that, the sooner Obi-Wan will be free."

Anakin grabbed his lightsaber from the guard who held it, bowing again. "Very well, your grace. Please excuse me." The guards escorted him out of the throne room.

As soon as the door shut behind him, Satine stepped down from her throne. She ran to Obi-Wan, unlocking his binders, despite the protests of her guards. "You were right! They're calling off the invasion."

Obi-Wan returned her hug, wincing as his arms lifted to wrap around her. "I'm so glad, my dear."

She stepped back, worry creasing her face. "You weren't supposed to get hurt. I didn't want that."

"I know. If it meant the freedom of Mandalore, it was worth it. I'm okay, I promise."

Satine grabbed his hand, pulling him out of the room and towards her chambers. "We have some time to spend together now, since you're stuck here until the republic troops leave the system."

Obi-Wan grinned. "I hope they take their time."