Another installment and we see plotting and scheming as Shaak starts to marshal all of her forces for the coming confrontation. Ahsoka is ever the good soldier as she always stands ready to back up her master.

Thanks to new follower: Venotica


Chapter 34: Making Plans


In hyperspace going to Felucia, 0 ABY 4 months, 0 days

The trip to Felucia from Nar Shaddaa was an informative one for the now reconstituted Skywalker family. Ahsoka and Hedala sat with Anakin, Luke, and Leia, as much information about Anakin's earlier history was discussed. However, most of it concerned his youth, his secret marriage to Padme and what took place at the end of the Clone Wars – the death of Count Dooku and Anakin's premonition that his wife would die in childbirth. Ahsoka herself was also learning new details about her former master's life after she had walked away from the Jedi Order, and her face carried a most solemn expression. Oh … why ever did I leave you, Anakin? Maybe we should have left together...

When Anakin reached the part about Order 66 and the attack on the Jedi by the clone soldiers, and his part in it, he was most apologetic.

"Do I have anything to say for myself?" He asked, to no one in particular. "I was so angry at that time. It was like something – or someone – had taken over my mind and body. I had come to believe in the Emperor and when he told me the Jedi were the enemy, I had to carry out his wishes … Now the Galaxy is very fortunate that I was unable to find Master Ti that day. Her escape has given us all another chance … a chance to fulfill our destiny."

Leia sat rapt, many thoughts coursing through her mind. Her father's confessions were filling in so many blank areas in her understanding of Galactic history. Finally, she spoke up.

"Father," she started. "Forgive me, I am still struggling with the reality of things … but can you tell me what you mean by Master Ti giving us all another chance? A chance to what?"

"Leia. My darling daughter. Wise and strong, yet still so young." He gazed at her through the mask and completed a breathing cycle. "Grand Master Ti is the leader we have always needed. Her wisdom and power are unmatched. Together with her we shall bring this cycle of conflict to an end and set the Galaxy on its rightful course."

Leia was somewhat dubious. "Ahsoka … will she grant me a private audience? I would most desire a chance for her to explain in detail these ideas."

Ahsoka gazed at her directly. "I feel she will give you that chance. But I must advise caution when dealing with her. She does not respond well to impertinence."

Luke added his observations at this point. "Leia, Master Shaak is a great leader. You will see what I mean. She is the true leader of the rebellion. And her powers are great. She has destroyed entire Imperial Star Destroyers with her knowledge of the Force."

Ahsoka laughed. "And that's just the beginning of what she can do. She is now embarked on the re-orientation of the planet Felucia into a more temperate world capable of supporting a greater diversity of life."

Leia started to realize there were a great number of things that had been kept from her during her short life. So my father, Bail, and mother, Breha, knew all along that Vader was my true father. What else did they keep from me? Maybe Master Ti has the answers. But she also sounds very dangerous herself.

Han Solo had also come along on the trip to Felucia, but for the most part, he stayed silent during this discussion, trading glances with Hedala, who returned them with shoulder shrugs. So Luke and Leia are brother and sister? Maybe I have a chance with her after all … so long as she doesn't completely hate me for what just happened with Sana.


The Wheel, 0 ABY 3 months, 16 days

Chelli Lona Aphra had waited on her ship Ark Angel in the Geonosis/Tatooine system for a couple of days for Darth Vader's return. He had left her after meeting with the Wookiee bounty hunter Black Krrsantan and the interrogation of Cylo-IV resulted in the agent's death. She did some more research and learned that Cylo had already "transplanted" his essence into yet another cyborg body and was now Cylo-V, but exactly where he had gone she couldn't yet determine. Dr. Aphra then decided to head somewhere that Vader could find her if he needed to – and she had a strong feeling that he would – and so she chose to return to The Wheel, where she might find Cad Bane and learn some of the gossip that was making its way around the Galaxy.

Ark Angel, still carrying the droid "factory" that she and Vader had test-activated to produce some basic B1 and B2 models, along with her personal droid assistants Triple Zero and BT-1, arrived at The Wheel about two weeks before the events that took place on Nar Shaddaa which resulted in the freeing of Princess Leia and Han Solo from Grakkus the Hutt's palace. After making her landing accommodations, Chelli then left her ship and checked into a casino hotel for a few days, wondering if maybe this was a good time to reestablish relations with Ahsoka Tano, as Bane hadn't yet turned up. She felt constrained by having to wait for Vader, not wanting to disappoint him (as that might end up being a fatal error) but at the same time wanting to get on with her life.


Felucia, 0 ABY 4 months, 2 days

Once the Corvala Dawn had landed on Felucia, Ahsoka helped Anakin and Leia find rooms at the new guest residence facility that had recently been completed. (Luke, of course, was with the other acolytes and apprentices at the bunk house, while Leia at this time was considered a guest of the Order, as was Anakin.) These were modest in scale, but Leia had become more and more accustomed to living like ordinary people and her days at the palace on Alderaan were receding further into the past. As she settled into her room, she started thinking about her life and how fortunate she was to still be living it, considering all that had happened since the Battle of Scarif. But she also wondered just what her role would be now with the rebellion against the Empire now clearly being controlled by Shaak Ti. What do Mon Mothma and Garm Bel-Iblis think about this? Are they even aware of Shaak's power? Oh, I am so looking forward to meeting with her.

Han Solo had also checked in and wondered what the future might hold for him. Perhaps he should give up on ever having any kind of relationship with Leia and instead find Chewbacca and see if perhaps Ahsoka might be willing to stake him to the necessary new parts needed to fix the Millennium Falcon. He'd paid close attention to everything he saw on Felucia, and asked questions, which Ahsoka happily answered. So this whole planet is basically owned by Shaak Ti, who is obviously loaded. Who, exactly, is she – some former Jedi I've heard of but know almost nothing about. Maybe she could use another pilot. Chewie and I could help out around here and I could get my debts to Jabba paid off. Once he'd gotten his bearings and had some good rest, Han was ready to make some moves. The next day, he'd approach Ahsoka and see what his options were.

As Anakin laid himself down to rest, he knew that Shaak would soon expect him to return to General Tagge and get on with the business of supporting the Emperor and the plan to clean up the Outer Rim. So his thoughts again returned to two areas – the first being Doctor Aphra and the droid factory, the second being the need to find and dispose of Cylo and the other possible enforcers the Emperor had seemingly hired. It was important to reestablish trust, but how exactly to do that? The old man would soon detect that Vader had learned the truth about his children and thus would harbor much ill will toward the occupant of the throne. Perhaps Grand Master Shaak will know what to do.

Luke and Hedala of course returned to the bunkhouse and shared their adventure on Nar Shaddaa with their fellow members of the Order. There was more than a bit of admiration – and a touch of jealousy – toward Hedala with her tale of how they disposed of the thugs at the Hutt palace and especially witnessing Ahsoka's formidable powers.

"Yes, she really can shoot electricity from her hands and cause people to catch on fire", Hedala insisted, while Luke backed her up. She said nothing, however, about Darth Vader and his seeming alliance with the Order.


Felucia, Ahsoka's home, 0 ABY 4 months, 2 days

Ahsoka finally returned to her home on Felucia and found Tri'ku faithfully waiting there for her. As she entered he came to her and she took his hands and looked into his eyes.

"I am so sorry. Can you ever forgive me?" She cried out.

Tri'ku took her in his arms and kissed her, then smiled at her as they sat down together. He started to caress her right lek, and then her left. She seemed to relax a bit.

"Ashli … you know I understand how many duties you have. I have to be patient … but I will be there for you. Whatever it takes, you know I love you. No one has ever been more important to me or more understanding of me. Everything depends on the rebellion – we must prevail. I know you and Master Shaak are the leaders and the Force is with you both. But do you also know how proud I am of you? What an incredibly brave and strong person you are, Ahsoka. I am honored to be part of your life."

"Tri …" she sighed. "This just isn't fair to you. Of course I am touched by your affection, your kindness and devotion to me. Also how patient you have been with me. But you are part of the rebellion, not just a bystander."

"My love, I want to be with you. Whatever I can do to help. I don't know whether someone in your position is free to marry and perhaps have a family … but it is an aspiration of mine that we can be together always."

I'll reach out my hand to you, I'll have faith in all you do … Where there is love, I'll be there.

She smiled and kissed him again. "Let's live each day as we can. Let's not think too much about the future. As you once told me, we've got tonight."

They settled in together for the night. Before going to bed, Ahsoka transmitted a short message via the Force to Shaak. Back home with you now, Mother. Please let me rest and I will be with you in the morning … I love you.


Felucia, Shaak's home, 0 ABY 4 months, 3 days

The next day saw much activity. Grand Master of the Order Shaak Ti arose early and had a light breakfast with her executive assistant, Padawan Frehya Lumoxa.

"How are you feeling this morning, Master?"

"Quite well, my dear." Shaak smiled. "I would like you to have another small residence constructed for Lord Vader. He will require certain amenities to enable his stay on our planet when he comes to visit. These include a special meditation chamber that can support his breathing apparatus."

"Yes, Master Shaak. We will start on that today. When will he be able to meet with us to go over the details?"

"Later this morning. I have a busy schedule planned. We will contact you."

"Very well, my lady." Frehya curtsied to her and left, just as Ahsoka was arriving. Upon seeing her former apprentice, Ahsoka stopped and the two of them hugged, just beyond the entrance to Shaak's home.

"How is it going for you?" Ahsoka snipped cheerfully.

"Wonderfully … but I'm rather busy now. She really depends on me. But she told me I have earned second level Padawan status now, so it's good to be appreciated."

"I'm happy for you, my friend. Look how far you have come …"

Frehya smiled. "Take care, Master Ahsoka. Let's stay connected."

Ahsoka nodded, then entered Shaak's house.

Shaak, upon seeing her adopted daughter, walked over and hugged her warmly. The embrace lasted a few seconds longer than usual. They then took each others' hands and smiled at each other. It was time for some serious planning.


Felucia, Guest lodge, 0 ABY 4 months, 3 days

Anakin Skywalker arose early and realized he had much to do. As he quickly got himself ready and stepped outside his guest room, Padawan Frehya was waiting.

"Lord Vader. Good morning, sir. Grand Master Shaak has informed me that you will need certain accommodations for when you stay on Felucia with us. If you would prefer, we can review these now."

He stared at her for a couple of seconds and analyzed her via the Force. Another powerful assistant of Shaak's, this one is. I suspect she will be quite useful in the future.

Anakin took Frehya's hand and raised it, then bent over as if to kiss it.

"Padawan Lumoxa. The Grand Master has chosen well. Master Tano has informed me that you are the facilities manager here and you have the Grand Master's trust and confidence."

Frehya blushed slightly. "To be fair, my Lord, Knight Brood is the one with that title, but she delegates everything to Knight Silkaw. I am charged with ensuring the Grand Master's wishes are fulfilled to her exact specifications."

Anakin smiled inwardly at this. Ah yes, Knight Maris Brood. A formidable adversary, but possibly a valuable asset as well. He resolved to spend time with Maris and learn the extent of her abilities. In the meantime, he decided to go over his needs with Frehya, feeling quite pleased with Shaak's foresight in providing accommodations for him.

After Anakin and Frehya had gone over everything, he returned to his room and started reaching out with the Force to locate Chelli Aphra. All of his plans required her and her great store of knowledge. It was at that moment that Ahsoka reached out to him and Force projected herself into his room, while Shaak was preparing something for her in the kitchen. They had a quick – but silent – discussion.

"Anakin, a word."

"At your service, Master Tano."

"I would like to review all of your activities with Doctor Aphra later this morning. We will contact her together."

"Understood, Master Tano. I will await your convenience."


Felucia, Shaak's home, 0 ABY 4 months, 3 days

Shaak soon joined her daughter and they sat down. Beverages were shared, as well as tasty Togruta treats of spiced meat and pickled vegetables.

"Ahsoka, my child. I see you have taken care of everything regarding the Skywalker family. Excellent."

"Yes, Mother. I think that Leia is most anxious to meet with you. She has some concerns."

"I am aware of that. The former princess will come to know her destiny. I fully extend my invitation to her to serve alongside her brother in the Order, and when her father is ready, she may serve as his apprentice."

Ahsoka ran through this possibility in her mind. "Is this the best course for her at this time?"

"I believe so, my child. You understand how important togetherness is for the Order. Anakin and his children must have a chance to become united in understanding as well as in sentiment. The daughter is strong with the Force, perhaps more so than the son. Luke looks up to you and has bonded well with Padawan Fardi. I wish to keep you three together at this time. But Anakin and Leia will be mutually beneficial. I now see that the father of the Skywalker twins has fully committed himself to the Order. After you and he have met later today I will see him as well."

"Very well, Mother. I see your approach now. I have something else to discuss." Shaak nodded.

"While we were on Nar Shaddaa, Anakin informed me that the Hutt had in his possession some Jedi holocrons, along with a few lightsabres and other items. Were you aware of this development?"

Shaak slowly shook her head, as her long lekku swayed gently. "I knew that something was occurring with that place … but I had not found time to fully investigate. We must review all of this material. Inform Master Nu so that she and Frehya can set about cataloging everything for our future discussion. I want this done in one rotation."

"Absolutely, Mother. I think we should be able to do that but there is a large amount of material."

Shaak stroked her chin as she pondered the implications. "My child, I think it rather unfortunate that the Hutt was able to obtain it at all. Clearly the aftermath of Order 66 and the resulting Jedi Purge has left much disarray in the Galaxy. But of course, the pirates whom the Hutt purchased this material from could scarcely know what was contained within it. Frankly, I consider it fortunate, given the circumstance, that he was able to amass this collection as it made my work easier. When the opportunity arises, I will meet with this individual. Perhaps there is more that may be obtained and he might well be the one to work with – as he already has established channels."

Ahsoka responded. "Hmm … I'm afraid we left things with him a little abruptly, Mother. You might need to smooth some ruffled feathers …"

Shaak chuckled. "I had figured as much. Both you and Anakin need more training in the art of diplomacy."

"I'm willing to learn, Mother. I guess I still have to wash the bad taste out of my mouth when dealing with … certain elements." She glanced at Shaak and then asked, "Can you tell me where we now stand on the Palpatine situation?"

"We have more to do but I want to get him into a state of mind where he might feel he can rest easier. Already he and his minions are moving to construct a second Death Star."

"Really?" Ahsoka asked with astonishment. "Doesn't he know we will just destroy that one, too?"

"I'm sure it has crossed his mind. Already his analysts have informed him about the reactors on the first one and how that ultimately was its undoing. They have even explained about the exhaust ports."

"Hmm. Therefore they will try to correct that problem. Did anyone mention about Galen Erso?"

"Not that I am aware of. The notion that anyone would deliberately sabotage the plan seems to have escaped them … for some reason." Shaak folded her arms, then massaged both her front lekku for a few seconds. "And … they have a far more ambitious timetable for completion this time around. It is to be complete in just seven years."

Ahsoka laughed softly. "All we have to do is find out where they are building it. Then we can go in and blow it away. You and I should be able to accomplish that by ourselves."

Shaak held up one hand in a cautioning manner. "Yes, dear. Of course we would be able to do that, but Palpatine must also know that we can do that as well. It will be well guarded."

"Well, Mother … I'm glad we had this little discussion. But are you able to give me any more on our general plan or strategy?"

"It is still very much a work in progress, my child. But I suddenly have a feeling that we will find something most valuable in what we have recovered from the Hutts."

Ahsoka nodded, then excused herself and went off to see Anakin, as they had a few things to take care of. But first she met with Frehya and told her to start looking over the items they had brought from Nar Shaddaa.


About 30 minutes later, Leia arrived at Shaak's doorstep. Expecting her, the Grand Master invited her inside.

"Ah, it is young Miss Organa … or might I say, Miss Skywalker?" Shaak spoke in her usual honeyed tones.

Not sure exactly how to greet her hostess, Leia simply curtsied and smiled.

"Good morning, Grand Master Ti. There are many things I want to ask you but I'm sure your time is valuable …"

Shaak continued to smile. "Please have a seat, young one. I would like to offer you something refreshing … that will also enable your greater understanding."

As Leia took her seat, Shaak then offered her a cool beverage, which she immediately welcomed, due to the high heat and humidity of a typical Felucian day.

"Master Ti … my father was telling us some things last night that I would like to discuss with you. In particular, he mentioned that, because your life was spared from Order 66, the Galaxy was given another chance. What kind of chance might he have been referring to?"

Shaak continued smiling, then took a full breath and exhaled.

"It means … that the Galaxy will not have to always live in Darkness. That the Order will prevail and the Rebellion will be successful."

Leia smiled in return. "I'm very glad to hear that. How do you think we will win?"

Shaak replied evenly. "By the defeat and removal of the Emperor, of course."

"I suppose I shouldn't ask how we might accomplish that … but I've read he is most strong with the Force."

Shaak smiled again. "That he is … but so are we."

"Master Ti, I must confess I don't know very much about the Force, but I get the feeling it's very important."

"Young Leia … trust your feelings. The Force is what holds everything together – and it is in every living creature and even in plants … but it is expressed differently in each."

Leia mulled this over. "That means it's in me too, then."

"Oh yes. In fact it is quite strong with you. With your father … and your brother."

Leia nodded. "I know. I can feel something when we are together. Something I never felt before. I want to understand it."

Shaak nodded. "Let's try something." She rose and motioned for Leia to do the same, then extended her arms forward. "Take my hands in yours." As Leia complied, Shaak sent a gentle surge of energy into her that immediately got her attention.

"What … was that?"

"It was the Force," Shaak replied cheerfully. "A simple example of it from me. I am unusually gifted in it. What I was doing was providing you an introduction."

Leia stared ahead, somewhat numbed by what just took place. Shaak continued, "Look into my eyes, dear. Allow your mind to go where it will."

As Leia did this, it started to seem like the entire Galaxy was contained within the Grand Master, and her eyes were a kind of portal and she could somehow see various stars and other features – all within Shaak's black eyes.

"Master … I … have never experienced …" Leia felt overwhelmed at this point, but somehow it was a good feeling.

Shaak then broke her gaze and released Leia's hands.

"Perhaps a demonstration is in order."

Shaak then started to show Leia some of the basic Force telekinesis powers by levitating several objects at once, then having them practically carry out a routine where they seemed to dance, then march, in various formations, all in mid air. She was entranced by this display and wanted to clap when it was over.

"Master, I know that was just a show to convince me – which it did, don't worry – but I'm also aware of much more serious powers. Do you think that Luke and I might be able to learn those?"

"I have no doubt at all, Leia. Now, I have very much enjoyed having you visit, and I would love to go even deeper into this subject with you, but keep in mind my time is quite valuable these days. I suggest you spend some time, perhaps with your father – he was very happy to learn he has a daughter, as well as a son – or maybe some of the others here that are experts, like Ahsoka, Maris, or even Hedala and Frehya. They all understand the Force and what it can do. Now … I understand you also want to know where all of this fits in with the Rebellion against the Empire. That will be explained in greater detail at a later time. You may find that you best serve that effort by working with me and the Order, like your brother and father are doing. I will not make this decision for you. You are a gifted young lady and I would very much like to have you in the Order. With your talents you will go far."

Leia knew that her visit with the Grand Master was winding up and she knew better than to test the great lady's patience. There was an unmistakable energy radiating from her, and though it was warm and inviting, Leia realized it could quickly change. She'd heard the rumors on Yavin IV about what Master Ti had done to literally blow an Imperial Star Destroyer out of the sky and leave little trace of it behind. This was certainly no ordinary Jedi, or even a Master. She had power to rival anything imaginable – which, presumably, included the Emperor.

Leia rose and curtsied to Shaak, who wished her well, then left to take a walk. She had much to consider.


Felucia, Guest lodge, 0 ABY 4 months, 3 days

Shortly around this time, Ahsoka paid a visit to Vader at the guest residence building. He graciously invited her into his room.

"Good morning, Anakin. I hope you slept well. Soon we will be building you a custom residence of your own here on Felucia."

"It was most peaceful, Master Tano."

"Very good. Now, if you please, I think it is time to contact our friend Chelli Aphra."

He nodded, then asked, "How long have you known her, Ahsoka?"

"About two years now, I believe it is. She has been most useful in helping me design defense systems for orbital deployment. And we have also learned how to scale these up to the point that Imperial ships can be compromised."

Vader paused to consider the implications of what his former Padawan had just told him.

"May it be safe to say that we might be able to produce these units at will – provided we have the facilities?"

"I don't see why not," Ahsoka answered. "The more difficult aspect of this is having a supply of Kyber crystals."

"Yes. That is the key component. But, Master Tano, I should think we both would be well-equipped for meeting such a challenge."

"That is correct … but I believe our time to be sufficiently valuable such that it would be ineffective, cost-wise."

Again, Vader had to consider her point. Tano has grown so intelligent. I always respected her quick mind.

"Anakin, did she give you some kind of com-link to reach her?"

"I believe so … here it is." Vader activated the link, which after a few seconds started to receive something. The sound wasn't very clear and the holo image was distorted and shaky, but eventually Chelli's voice came through. Ahsoka addressed her first.

"Hello my friend … I see your archeology studies have carried you to some interesting places."

Chelli was quite pleased to be contacted by her former business partner.

"Ahsoka! So good to hear from you. What's going on?"

"I have another friend of yours with me."

Vader then spoke up. "Doctor Aphra. Master Tano and I will have need of you soon. What is your current location?"

"A giant space station called The Wheel."

Ahsoka turned to Vader. "That's less than 2 hours away."

Vader spoke to Chelli again. "Stay where you are. Master Tano and I will be paying you a visit in the next two days."

Aphra chuckled. "So happy to hear that … I was growing bored waiting to hear from you."

"I was … otherwise occupied." Vader replied.

"We'll see you soon, Chelli." Ahsoka snipped cheerfully, then shut the link off.

She then turned to her old master. "Anakin, I do hope you are enjoying it here. Your daughter just met with Master Shaak. I trust she was able to get her questions answered."

Vader nodded. "Leia is a restless sort, I can see. She is her father's daughter … Ahsoka, how can I ever thank you enough for looking after both her and Luke … but it is my desire to be in their lives and help to guide their development. Do you see genuine promise in my son? Could he become a warrior … perhaps a Knight in the Order someday?"

"Yes. But Shaak expects him to work very hard. I would put him with Maris for some training but she is very rough on newcomers. I don't want him to be discouraged."

"Ahsoka. Do not underestimate the Skywalker line. I foresee he will do well with Knight Brood. She will come to respect him."

"All right. I will take that into consideration. So … about Leia. I don't feel she will be the type to swing a lightsabre but she is quite proud of herself and her abilities. I think Shaak will know what to do with her. She will be opposed to Leia returning to the other Rebel leaders. They cannot adequately control her."

Vader nodded again. "I sense you are correct, Master Tano. Might I ask you something … regarding Grand Master Ti?"

"You may ask … but I may not be able to answer fully … proceed."

"Does the Grand Master want to take the Emperor's place?"

"I am not completely sure, Anakin. I have noticed some tension between her and Mon Mothma. They may have some very different ideas on how the Galaxy should be governed."

He simply nodded again.

"Come, Anakin. Let us take a short walk. Frehya and I are going to look over the things we recovered from the Hutt on Nar Shaddaa. We would like to have your participation."

"It would be my pleasure, Ahsoka."


Felucia, Assembly Hall, 0 ABY 4 months, 3 days

About two hours later, Ahsoka, Anakin, Frehya and Jocasta Nu had finished going through a high level check of the items. They had found a storage room near the Assembly Hall and had separated everything. Needless to say, there were a few awkward moments between Anakin and Jocasta but Ahsoka was able to smooth things over. Anakin, for his part, apologized to her for his role in Order 66, then noted:

"Master Nu, considering all that has taken place since that day, it was rather fortunate that you and Grand Master Ti were able to remove everything you took from the Temple. The Emperor has mentioned on more than one occasion that he would like to have had the chance to do that himself. At the time, we believed that these items were lost in a fire."

Jocasta scoffed at that. "The old man doesn't know nearly as much as he pretends. Jedi holocrons cannot be destroyed by fire." She continued. "He would be most interested to learn that we also recovered all of the Sith holocrons that the Jedi Order had locked away. The Grand Master has spent considerable time studying those over the years."

Ahsoka was unaware of this and thought to herself. Mother, what else have you been doing that I should be aware of?

Jocasta then saw there were a couple of oddly shaped holocrons in the collection. Instead of being cubic like most Jedi knowledge containers were, these were twelve-faced objects (dodecahedrons). Ahsoka noted this and asked:

"Master Nu … what type of vessels are these?"

Frehya also was curious. "This seems a strange shape. Could these be a combination of Sith and Jedi knowledge?"

Jocasta shook her head. "No. I had seen this shape before but these are exceedingly rare. Something from the Old Republic era. Maybe over 3000 years ago. Master Ti must be informed … as soon as possible."

Ahsoka nodded. "I will reach her."

Using Force projection, Ahsoka alerted Shaak. Mother, we have discovered something you may be quite interested in, regarding the holocrons. Could you join us? Shaak responded quickly. I will be there shortly.

Frehya then asked, "What should we do with these lightsabres?"

Ahsoka replied, "Turn them over to Knight Xendar. He can tag and catalog them with the rest of those belonging to the Order."

While they continued to pore over the materials, Shaak arrived quietly, then made her presence known. As Jocasta presented her the holocron, she looked it over carefully.

"I seem to recall this one. There is a short speech I once gave contained on it. At the time, we were worried that the Jedi might be dying off. It was after the first Battle of Geonosis, that day we lost so many of our friends."

"Mother," Ahsoka asked. "What did you say in that speech?"

"Not too much. Simply that we shouldn't let the Jedi die. And there was too much proud history behind us for it to happen. Little did we realize that we were only three years away from the end."

Shaak bid them goodbye and instructed them to continue with the tagging and cataloguing of the remaining items, but took the two Jedi holocrons for herself and stepped outside to summon her speeder, which arrived within seconds. Soon she was on her way to the underground temple entrance in the woods.


Felucia, Temple Vault, 0 ABY 4 months, 3 days

Once she had arrived and opened the entrance, Shaak took a seat and proceeded to inspect the two holocrons. She found that one was accessible to most Jedi as it had a simple Force lock engaged, but the other was only able to be opened by an experienced master such as her. She believed that particular holocron would be the one most useful.

After Shaak was able to open the device, she placed it in a reliquary. She reasoned that something of this extreme age (perhaps 4000 years) had to be handled with extreme care. Once inside, she saw the internal organization of the device was quite unique and that it would not be an easy matter to analyze the contents. So she decided instead to also open another device that dealt with ancient Jedi history and the understanding of the great masters from those times. By connecting the two devices she was then able to find the organizing principle of the old holocrons. With this connection made, she could then proceed to break the code needed to access what she wanted. Upon doing this, she soon came across a section that had been prepared by the ancient Grand Master Nomi Sunrider, whose original name was Nomi Da-Boda.

In that section, there were some references to Light Side Force powers that hadn't been used in millennia. In fact, Shaak could scarcely recall ever hearing them discussed at any time during her life as a Jedi, even during her 8 years on the Council. But as she read and digested this section, a profound smile came over her face, and if anyone else had been there to witness her reaction, there would be no mistaking the look in her normally unreadable eyes. Palpatine, you are mine. Let there be Light.

At this point, Shaak had one last task to complete. She put away her Jedi reference holocron while leaving her new possession still in the reliquary, with its contents still open. Then she opened the drawer with the pyramid-shaped Sith holocrons and withdrew one in particular, leaving the others aside and closing the drawer. As the selected Sith device was opened, her own signature was immediately evident and an image of her face appeared above the work area. Grand Master Shaak Ti made some quick intonations in her native Togruta language, and some inscriptions in ancient Togruta script – both of these forms of communication were seldom seen outside of Shili, the Togruta home world. She then laughed in a malevolent tone and then something strange occurred. The Sith holocron – actually one of her own creation, as it turned out – started to draw the energy from the ancient Jedi holocron and became energized by it. Its normal red lighting then turned purple and finally a deep shade of blue. Shaak had now energized her consciousness with vast new powers and they would only need to be put into practice. Soon, those who would need to know of these would be made aware. The others, of course, would remain ignorant.

(to be continued …)