As the story continues, I must say I am going to miss doing this once it is complete. I suppose there will be other stories to follow and there are many things to write about in the Star Wars universe. More on this in the weeks to come. Meanwhile, a thank you to everyone who is reading and following it as we have now passed the 8000-view mark. A nod to new followers: Sly Fox 127, Khalthar, and asdasdasda.
Chapter 28: Ahsoka and Vader
Felucia, 0 ABY 0 months, 21 days, 10 hours
On Felucia, Shaak Ti called a short meeting for the entire Order at the Assembly Hall. Once everyone had filed into the building, the Grand Master cleared her throat, smiled, and gave a short speech:
"Friends, Acolytes, Members of the Order. I am gratified to see all of you here with me this fine morning and there are a few items on the program. First, I would like to announce that our official name is now Novus Ordo Galaxia – the New Order for the Galaxy. Our mission is – and will be – to restore peace, justice, and an equitable order to the Galaxy. This vision extends to all sentient beings in the Galaxy. As Members of the Order, you all are expected to hold to the highest standards of integrity in conduct, thinking and actions. We are an organization where each of us supports our Brothers and Sisters and we win – or lose – as a united organization. This means we do not leave our Sisters or Brothers behind on the battlefield and we work together. In unity there is strength. A victory for one is a victory for all. When your Brother or Sister has earned an honor, it means you all helped him or her achieve that honor and you should feel a sense of pride for what has been achieved. For the highest value we hold in the Order is Love. We care about each other and we support each other.
"At this time, therefore, I would like to announce the achievement of our Sister – Padawan Frehya Lumoxa. She will now be my executive assistant and work directly with me in the administration of our facilities and the archival of our precious data and knowledge. Frehya has been nothing but devoted, dedicated, and diligent – from the very first day of her time with us and I know you all realize how much she deserves this honor."
Shaak then raised her sabre hilt in the air and the blade of the "razor of elegance" soon appeared – crackling with intensity as it glowed in iridescent pink. She then motioned for Frehya to come forward and join her in front of the group. Frehya was wearing a new black robe given to her for her new duties and she wore it proudly. She then knelt in front of the GM, who then lightly touched her on each shoulder with the sabre.
"Rise, Padawan Lumoxa!" To the group, she shouted, "Rise everyone! Give our Sister the salute!"
As one, the assembled members shouted "U-Ah! Ka-bah!" Then, everyone sat down. Shaak then looked Frehya in the eye, smiled and took both her hands, raised them up, then released them. Frehya, feeling elated, then returned to her seat. Shaak then returned to her scheduled remarks.
"The next item I would like to cover is that we are planning an expansion of our group. A dozen new acolytes will be joining us in the days to come. I have recently been in communication with the former Jedi Master of archives and knowledge, Master Jocasta Nu. Her able assistant, Padawan Jin-lo Rayce has been training a group of future warriors who will soon be joining us. They will need all of our attention and assistance as they will be learning what it means to be true warriors of the Force. I am told that each of them has already demonstrated ability in the Force. I will be visiting Master Nu in the next few rotations and we will finalize all arrangements.
"This means expansion of our existing facilities will be taking place and Padawan Lumoxa will be working with Knights Xendar and Maris to coordinate this development. Many of you will also be working on this project. In addition, I would like to confirm that Knight Maris has now reached the fourth level of Knighthood. Salute Knight Maris Brood – she has earned this honor."
A similar ritual then took place to honor Maris, who beamed with pride as she stood before the group. Shaak then also informed everyone that Maris was also being formally named as the Guardian of Felucia and in effect was the planet's "general manager." Both Xendar and Frehya would be assisting her to conduct her duties. After these announcements, Shaak ended the ceremony and waved to the group. As the GM headed out of the hall, Ahsoka then approached Frehya and asked to speak with her alone.
"Frehya, my friend … do you have a minute?"
"For you, Master? Always."
"I just wanted to make sure you understood how I felt about your change of assignment. I know that we were – we are – very close. I have nothing but gratitude for all you've done for me since we first met, that fateful day on Almania, when I came there needing a place to go and some new friends to have my back. You've just been great."
Frehya sighed, then looked at the woman she'd come to call a close friend.
"Ahsoka, I don't know what to say. I hate to be leaving your service. You've shown me so much, and every step of the way, you have been the most supportive and enthusiastic mentor anyone could ask for. But now I'm growing more excited about my new role. To be with Master Shaak is an incredible opportunity. She's so inspirational, you just want to do your very best because you don't want to disappoint her. But the fact remains, Master Ahsoka, I love you and will always. I hope we can still see as much of each other as possible."
The two women hugged each other warmly and traded short kisses, then curtsied to each other. Shaak observed this exchange from a few metres away and then approached, smiling.
Felucia, 0 ABY 0 months, 21 days, 12 hours
"Ready, my apprentice?" Shaak asked, and gestured toward Frehya. As the two were about to leave together on Shaak's speeder, Luke came up to them.
"Master Shaak? Do you have a minute?" He asked respectfully.
She turned around to face him, her countenance blank. "Apprentice Skywalker? What may I do for you?"
Luke felt a trifle embarrassed. He probably should have known better than to approach her in this manner. She stopped and motioned for Frehya to wait for her in the speeder, then took him aside to give them some privacy.
"Master Shaak …" he stammered. "I'm very inspired by being a part of the Order. But how are we going to fight the Empire?"
She glanced at him softly, then leveled a deep gaze right at him. Luke felt more than a little uneasy, unsure of what she might do next. But she gave him a distinct chuckle. "So, it's a fight that you want?" He nodded, somewhat sheepishly.
"Well, young man, you've come to the right place. We'll get you in shape for that. Do you have any issues with Master Ahsoka and Padawan Fardi?" Her tone was slightly mocking.
"Oh, no, not at all, Grand Master," he said nervously. "I know they are going to work me hard, but I won't let you down. It's just that the Empire has hurt a lot of people that I care about and I want to do my part against them."
She laughed softly. "So you don't think firing the shot that took out the Death Star was enough?"
He nodded. "Sure. But it really felt more like luck. I don't really understand how I hit that target on my first try."
Shaak turned to him, a more serious expression on her face.
"Luke – when you come to understand the Force, you will also understand there is no such thing as luck. Didn't Master Kenobi explain about the Force to you?"
"Yes, Grand Master, he did. And Hedala has been showing me how to use the Force, but it still doesn't feel like I'm doing anything."
"Apprentice Skywalker. I can assure you that the ability will come. You will learn how to invite the Force in. Master Ahsoka will show you. She is one of the very best now."
Luke nodded again. "Yes, I can feel that from her. But someday I would really like to learn directly from you."
Shaak laughed. "I'm not going anywhere, young man. You will get that chance, but when will be up to Master Ahsoka. She once worked with Master Kenobi. If Obi-Wan were here, he would tell you all about her and her experience. You are most fortunate to have her as a teacher. Padawan Fardi learned everything she knows from Ahsoka. So did Padawan Lumoxa. And so will you."
She smiled and clapped him on the shoulder, then started walking back to the speeder and to Frehya, who was patiently awaiting her. "Look, I know you are impatient. But someday you will look back at these times and laugh about them. There are great things ahead of you. I have foreseen it. Now, if you will excuse me, I have matters that I must see to. Have a good day, Luke. We will talk again later."
Luke bowed to her. "Thank you, Master Shaak." As she left him, he still had many questions, but he knew she likely was not going to give him much time until he had accomplished a lot more. I guess I'm lucky for what time she gave me. She may not be as patient with others.
Felucia, 0 ABY 0 months, 21 days, 13 hours
Shaak and Frehya rode back over to the underground temple entrance and went below. Shaak demonstrated to her assistant how to open the entrance using the Force and then how to access various parts of the library. Together, the two of them reviewed all of the installations present on Felucia and Shaak also showed her how to update or add new content to holocrons. Frehya was charged with overseeing the planning for the expansion of the facilities that would be needed to accommodate the new members that would soon be arriving from Chandrila. A new residence for Ahsoka – modeled along the modest scale of Maris's home – and a new "hotel" for visiting dignitaries were among the things planned that Frehya would be managing. She of course would later meet with Maris and Xendar to get their input on what was needed. She was also wrapping up the expansion of the Grand Master's residence, which had gone quickly once Knight Xendar had gotten involved. Frehya was especially grateful to have her own room in the larger home. She had already installed a desk for herself and data ports to allow her to access the whole compound with its various security features.
Along the way, she had become somewhat amused at the existing organization that Shaak had established, and though it was not poorly conceived, the execution of it left much to be desired in terms of efficiency. Frehya had come to realize that the Jedi were not really the best managers of complex systems relating to personnel and facilities, and especially when it came to handling financial matters. As she thought about these things, she chuckled at times. Imagine if they'd had me around back before Order 66. The Jedi could have been better prepared to stop the threat. Frehya still thought it incomprehensible that they could not have detected that Chancellor Palpatine was actually Darth Sidious. That someone as powerful as Shaak or Yoda could totally miss that – I still don't understand. She resolved to study much more about the Force now that she had the free time to do so. More and more, Frehya had become grateful for the opportunity Shaak had given her – and her appreciation for the Grand Master continued to grow. The best thing about Shaak, in addition to her basic kindness and decency, is how she is always trying to upgrade her knowledge and skills.
As Frehya was busy taking it all in, Shaak observed her with pride. Just look at the speed with which she integrates all of this. I could be looking at a future Master of the Order. Shaak then called her to attention.
"Padawan Frehya, we have a trip planned."
"Are we going to Chandrila to meet with Master Nu?"
"That will be a few days from now. Today, we head for Corporate Sector with Master Tano, who will be meeting with Lord Vader. We will use Ahsoka's ship Corvala Dawn. I want you to pilot, so that I can plan things with her along the way."
"Very well, Master Shaak. I will make the preparations."
Soon the three of them were on their way. Ahsoka then sent detailed landing coordinates and meeting information in a message to Vader. As he had been told beforehand to expect her communique, he quickly acknowledged the meeting and was on his way to the planet Issagra. The meeting place was actually a large space station orbiting the planet, one known for seedy gambling establishments and as a haven for criminal syndicates. Ahsoka chose this location for the purpose of providing cover for the Dark Lord, should the Emperor question his reason for venturing to the sector.
Issagra, Corporate Sector, NE Outer Rim, 0 ABY 0 months, 22 days
Once they had arrived, Frehya made the docking arrangements and Ahsoka then contacted Vader. The two agreed to meet in a spacious conference area that had been booked by the Order. When she arrived there, the Dark Lord was waiting inside. She closed the doors and the two stood together for a few seconds, both gazing through the large windows that afforded a view of the planet below. Vader then broke the ice.
"Master Tano. I am pleased to see you again. Are you well?" He asked, seemingly with sincerity.
She nodded. "And yourself? Anakin … I understand the Emperor was not pleased with you."
He let one breath cycle pass before responding. "Not at all. I have been demoted."
"So I heard … well, you cannot be surprised. Losing the Death Star had to drive him crazy."
"Ahsoka. What are your plans for me?"
"Anakin. Master Shaak will be joining us to review that with you. For now, I just want to reach out to you. As you know, I had told you I wouldn't leave you hanging – ever again. I have always blamed myself for what happened to you."
Vader seemed to sigh, though it was hard to tell, given the mask and helmet, so Ahsoka gently probed him with the Force. She could feel a soul in deep conflict. On one hand, he had genuine remorse for much of what had taken place. The pain of his injuries – at the hands of Obi-Wan, long ago – and the insidious way that Palpatine had taken full advantage of him, keeping him in such pain so that it fueled his anger and made him the ideal weapon of the Dark Side, had ultimately been the driving force behind his actions. He had done his part to carry out Order 66 because he believed, for some wildly illogical reason, that it would somehow save his beloved Padme from death.
But on the other hand, Palpatine had spent considerable effort in molding Vader into a powerful Sith lord, one with no conscience at all toward the many innocents he had put to death in the years since. Grand Master Shaak had also been meditating over the years on what exactly had taken place and resolved to understand Vader's motivations and where his weaknesses – such as they were – truly lay. So when the showdown in the Almanian system took place, he was immediately incapacitated via electric current as Shaak knew it would be most effective. Due to her earlier battles with General Grievous, she had resolved to find a way to destroy cyborgs by short-circuiting their systems, as their metal parts would be conductors of electricity. Once Vader had been taken into her custody, her first action was to start soothing the pain he had felt for over 18 years. She then had offered to clear his name and restore his body, something he had given up on ever taking place. All he had to do was betray the Emperor.
Vader responded. "Master Tano. Consider this an apology for any pain I caused you – or your friends. Long ago, I swore I would never hurt you. We were allies, partners, and almost siblings."
"I know, Anakin. Imagine how I felt when I learned the one in the mask was you. After Order 66, I thought that you had perished – but it seems it was something far worse. When Obi-Wan and Bail told me what happened, I started to understand your pain. I decided I would reach out to you. On Malachor, you told me you had destroyed Anakin, that he was weak. But really, he was more likely vulnerable and that was the weakness Palpatine exploited. Padme never had to die, but you did not kill her."
"What really happened, Ahsoka?"
"She died giving birth. But she was so hurt by what had happened, she lost her will to live."
"And the child?"
"There were two – both survived. That's all I am going to tell you."
"I see. I suppose that is best – for now. Ahsoka, I know you cannot trust me. I must earn that."
She nodded and looked at him, again via the Force, and felt him trying to reconcile the way he felt at this moment. He could not penetrate her Force defenses and learn any details about the children. Shaak has trained her well. I will learn nothing … but I do have children – more than one. He changed topics.
"Ahsoka – what happened to Obi-Wan? It seemed he sacrificed himself but his body just disappeared."
Ahsoka herself was not entirely clear on this, either.
"I wasn't there, Anakin. Shaak told me he became one with the Force."
"I don't understand …"
She shook her head slowly. "I really don't either. But I think you did not actually kill him."
He paused again, clearly trying to come to grips.
"That is well, then. I wanted revenge on him for what happened on Mustafar. We are not Jedi, Master Tano."
"Then what are we, Anakin? I'm not a Sith."
"Then I am not one either. We are something different. But Ahsoka, I only know I want to serve again with you. Together we can support the Grand Master. Please inform her of my sincerity."
"Perhaps you should do that yourself …" Ahsoka smiled, and then turned to see that Shaak had entered the room.
"Lord Vader …" she smiled. "I am pleased to see you."
He did his best to bow to her, though he was somewhat limited in mobility.
"Grand Master Ti. I am honored that you have joined us. I was just informing Master Tano that I wish to serve with her under you."
Shaak seemed to consider it, but gave no indication.
"What I need from you now is to regain the Emperor's trust. How you do that is up to you."
Vader thought about this. He had already formulated something of a plan.
"Master, I propose working with Master Tano. There have been many reports recently of pirate and criminal activity in the Outer Rim."
Shaak nodded. "Understandable, considering the loss of the Death Star and Governor Tarkin. I need some details regarding your plan. Ahsoka is currently occupied with other responsibilities."
Ahsoka wanted to say something but Shaak gave her a look that made her think better of it.
Vader quickly covered for her. "Very well, then. I can report in with her as I make progress." He was hoping that Shaak would sense his sincerity but she gave no sign of that.
Shaak, having seated herself at the conference table, drummed her fingers for a few seconds, gauging carefully Vader's reactions and feeling some tension. Ahsoka quickly took a seat next to her. Shaak remained silent.
Vader clearly wanted to get some sign from Shaak that she approved. He decided to be up front with her regarding the latest Imperial strategy. "Madam Grand Master. I will be reporting to newly named Grand General Tagge. Any key movements of the fleet can be relayed via your network."
She smiled at this, nodded again, and seemed to consider it. "Lord Vader," she said at last. "I would greatly appreciate that. I do not wish to give the impression that I am ungrateful for your apparent … cooperation. These are crucial times for the Alliance. We must build on the momentum we gained from the destruction of the Death Star."
Vader nodded back to her. "Understood, Grand Master. Might I ask one question?"
She seemed to entertain the idea but her eyes were difficult to read as always. He continued. "I was under the impression that day that you and Master Tano fired the actual shots that destroyed the station. It was the reason you secured the plans for yourself. But as it was happening, I could sense another Force presence on the scene and I came to believe there was another participant. Am I correct, Master Ti?"
"Quite correct … and, I would prefer that this be the understanding you provide to the remaining Imperial forces. Allow them to believe it was a young rebel pilot that executed the successful attack – and that pilot only."
"I understand, Grand Master. That is what I will tell General Tagge."
Shaak stood and pushed her chair back. "Lord Vader, that is all. You will work with Master Tano. Coordinate your activities through her. We will be in communication."
Shaak left the room, while Ahsoka stayed behind for a final word.
"Anakin. I do hope that this will work for us. I look forward to hearing of your progress."
"As you wish, Master Tano."
Soon, Corvala Dawn was on its way back to Felucia, while Darth Vader had much on his mind. He had been given the go ahead, now it was up to him to piece together a plan. The first step would be to work with General Tagge and start giving the impression that he could be a "team player", so as to start winning back the Emperor's trust. He had some ideas on that and set his course for Coruscant.
In hyperspace returning to Felucia, 0 ABY 0 months, 22 days
As Frehya engaged the engines of the Corvala Dawn, she couldn't help but wonder what had taken place in the meeting with Vader, but she knew better than to ask the GM. Such meetings were clearly on a need-to-know basis, similar to the ones she was involved with in the old days when she was an exec to the military brass of Almania. The three of them returned straight away to Felucia. Ahsoka rode up front while Frehya flew the ship, while R8-ND monitored various systems on board. The ship was now about two years old and was working more or less as it did when it was delivered from the factory on Tirsa and Ahsoka's astromech had done an excellent job with all of the needed maintenance over the life of the ship. Also, Corvala Dawn featured many enhancements that Ahsoka and R8 had designed and installed so it was anything but off-the-shelf technology.
On the way, Frehya noted:
"Grand Master Shaak certainly likes to rest an awful lot. Does she get tired easily or what?"
Ahsoka chuckled and shook her head. "No. She does like to meditate, she always has. So much knowledge comes to her this way, she's told me, but I think it's really just a case of her reviewing the day in her head. We had a meeting with Vader on that space station and there was much to think about."
As Shaak ended her meditation, she went into the ship's lounge and called for Ahsoka to join her.
"How was your rest, Mother?"
"Very good, dear. We have some things to consider. I very much want to know Anakin's plan once he starts to execute it."
"I will stay on top of it, Mother. Might I ask you something? This has been troubling me for a while now. I recall when we first captured Anakin on the Almanian moon Drewwa. You told him that his body could be restored. How exactly did you mean that?"
Shaak stared at her intently. "My child, I mean the restoration of normal human functions and the end of him having to live in a quasi-droid-like existence."
"But how could that be possible?"
"It will be complex, but I have studied his entire makeup – organic and mechanical – and I now feel confident that I can do the various procedures. It will require extensive regeneration of tissue using his own DNA. Fortunately, his brain is more or less intact and of course, he has exceedingly powerful connections to the Force. The most difficult area is to repair his spinal injuries. He has had complete replacement of some vertebrae and cranial neuron function was severely compromised. I cannot discern at present how much of that was due to the duel with Obi-Wan on Mustafar and how much was done intentionally by Sidious."
Ahsoka gasped, "How do you mean, intentionally?"
"I believe his current makeup was partly engineered to keep him in a continuous state of pain and agony, so as to render him unable to avoid the Dark Side."
"Seriously …" Ahsoka said slowly, with a tone of dread in her voice. "Mother, we have to help him. If what you are saying is true, much of what he has done is because of that."
"Yes, my child. And until I discovered the extent of his condition, I believe that our friend Palpatine was the only other person that knew it."
Shaak took a deep breath, then continued.
"We can certainly help him, though. And I have reason to believe he is open to it. But there are many other things that must happen first – chief among them, the destruction of the Emperor and the fall of his Empire."
(to be continued …)
