In this one, we start to set the stage for the big showdown. There are a number of moving parts here that we must put in order first. Thanks to new followers … Punked127, Stormtide Leviathan, Salvatire.
Chapter 38: Preparations
Felucia, 0 ABY, 7 months, 15 days (update and story events recap)
Ahsoka Tano was returning from a visit to Almania and its moon, Drewwa. As this would be a weapons depot for the Rebellion and the Order as well, she was overseeing the progress. All the storage areas were constructed and the inventories of various weapons stock – blaster rifles and short guns, slug throwers (these were often useful on some planets with damper climates), various types of bombs, torpedoes and other ordinance, including tactical nuclear fission bombs – were carefully accounted for. Tri'ku Je'har and his former executive officers were handling some of the duty and the official story was that all of this materiel was for the defense of the Almania System against pirates and crime syndicates. Ahsoka also decided to stash (quite surreptitiously) four of the new TIE Defender Starfighters they had recently purchased from Santhe-Sienar, while the rest of that order was being warehoused on Felucia.
The home planet of the Order continued to be a world undergoing great change. Various points on the surface of the planet's northern hemisphere had been designated for military use and large scale construction was under way. Various bases with many landing platforms had been built, along with barracks facilities for soldiers to live in while they trained in the area. The re-engineering of the Felucian climate was continuing and there was already a noticeable change, especially at night, when the temperatures were steadily dropping – though not enough yet to cause undue concern. Shaak's plan was to gradually convert the planet and carefully monitor everything as it continued. But already, over 5000 troops (with about four times that number planned) had been stationed on Felucia and they would be involved in the construction of the new base on Hoth. Most of these had been arriving from the Pantoran system over the past month, once the Rebel Alliance leadership had signed on to Grand Master Ti's plan.
During the journey, Ahsoka started to reflect on all that had taken place over the past three years since she had left the barren world of Malachor – the place where her former master, Anakin Skywalker, who had become Darth Vader, had left her for dead. She had first gone to Almania, the closest planet to Malachor, which was within the range of the TIE Advanced fighter left behind by the deceased Inquisitor, the Seventh Sister. On that planet, she connected well with the leadership, a clan known as the Je'har, who needed her military experience. There she met the man that she was to fall in love with, the leader of the Almanian navy, Commodore Tri'ku Je'har – who would eventually resign his commission to join the Rebel Alliance and hopefully spend more time with her. Also, former Almanian naval officer Frehya Lumoxa became her friend and then her apprentice after she demonstrated her Force ability to Ahsoka.
The most important event for Ahsoka was her trip to Alderaan, where she spoke with Bail Organa (who told her the truth about Anakin's turn to Vader and also the whereabouts of his children, and Masters Yoda and Kenobi) and then met Hedala Fardi – who would also become her apprentice – and Bail's adopted daughter Leia. As she, Hedala, and Frehya were about to leave Alderaan, they received a transmission from Felucia that turned out to be from Shaak Ti, the former Jedi Master and fellow Togruta. Once they had met with each other, Shaak told Ahsoka she had always admired her during the time they were both in the Jedi and that Ahsoka had a much higher midichlorian count (similar to Anakin, but almost completely unknown by the rest of the Jedi) – one that would allow her to become truly powerful in the Force. From that day, Ahsoka then gained wondrous new powers that she scarcely knew existed, and her regard for Shaak became so great that she decided to accept the older Togruta's offer of adoption. Shaak was establishing a replacement for the Jedi that she simply referred to as the Order. She and her apprentice, Maris Brood, were training about sixty people who were Force-sensitive and had somehow evaded the Empire's Inquisitorium.
Together, Ahsoka and Shaak worked to support what would become the Rebellion against the Empire and they connected Obi-Wan and Yoda. Along the way they learned of the Empire's plan to complete the construction of the Death Star which they would use to tighten their grip on the Galaxy. But with their increasing knowledge, they began to turn the tide, taking out an Imperial Star Destroyer by targeting its reactor and hyperdrive. They used a Force technique that Shaak had learned from ancient Jedi knowledge that she and Maris had gained from the holocrons they removed from the Temple on Coruscant during the fateful day of Order 66 when most of the other remaining Jedi were killed. Soon they also used their knowledge to lure Darth Vader into a trap. Via Force Lightning, they short-circuited his robotic suit and put him into a coma. As he later awoke, he learned that Shaak had likely become the most powerful Force user in the Galaxy and she was offering him the ability to regain his earlier life as Anakin. All he had to do was agree to join her and Ahsoka and together the Rebellion would eventually be successful.
At first Vader was dubious, but he came to realize he could trust both Ahsoka and Shaak. They explained that his real enemy was Palpatine, who had lied to him about what happened to Padme and engineered a setup to keep him in almost constant pain that fed his anger and made him powerful but also obedient. Shaak's first action toward Vader was to ease that pain and give him a chance to think about things with a clear head. It wasn't long before he came around to them and saw that they were offering him a redemption opportunity, despite all the heinous deeds he had perpetrated. With Vader ready to assist them, Ahsoka and her team were able to gain the plans to the Death Star, which they later destroyed. At the same time, Anakin's son Luke was involved in the effort and had left his home on Tatooine to join the Rebellion, in which his (unknown to him) sister Leia was already an active participant. Luke soon became another of Ahsoka's apprentices.
After a series of events, including a successful raid on an Imperial weapons factory, took place, Ahsoka decided it was time for the Skywalker family to be united and Anakin, Luke, and Leia were all made aware of their relationship. Meanwhile, Shaak asked Frehya to report directly to her and oversee all of the changes taking place on Felucia, leaving Luke and Hedala as Ahsoka's direct apprentices. The changes then started to roll out quickly as various new facilities were constructed and the planet became a staging area for the Rebellion. Former Jedi archivist Jocasta Nu had also joined Shaak's organization and brought with her another dozen or so Force-sensitive people that had been discovered in the previous years. Newly discovered knowledge contained on holocrons that had been collected by a Hutt gangster on Nar Shaddaa gave Shaak the final piece of information she needed to take down Palpatine. She then informed Ahsoka and the Rebel leadership that she intended to become the empress of the galaxy and oversee a transition toward a more responsive and inclusive government. At least that was the plan …
Once Ahsoka returned to Felucia, accompanied by Tri'ku, they learned that Shaak had called for another general meeting of the Order at the Assembly Hall the next morning. The first orders of business were some well-deserved promotions. As she read off the names and the honors attained, Shaak had kind words for each honoree:
Maris Brood, to Knight, fifth degree. "My good friend and long time trusted apprentice. You have never wavered in your diligence and dedication to the Order. This is a testimony to your continued pursuit of excellence – and I have little doubt you will soon become a Master."
Ahsoka Tano, to Master, third degree. "Simply the best at almost everything you do, and such an inspiration for everyone. I'm just proud to say that I associate with you, my amazing daughter."
Xendar Silkaw, to Knight, second degree. "Your value to the Order continues to rise. New responsibilities have come your way and you stepped up quickly. You continue to demonstrate excellence every day."
Frehya Lumoxa, to Padawan, third degree. "My secret weapon. Your intelligence and organizational abilities are simply breathtaking. I can only say I am so happy you are on our side."
Hedala Fardi, to Padawan, third degree. "Showing everyone that desire and great attitude are what leads to success. No one outworks you."
Luke Skywalker, to Padawan, first degree. "When you joined us, months ago, you told me you wanted to be a Knight, just like your father. Keep this up and you will be."
Reema Andujah, to Padawan, first degree. "Your talent level is amazing and you work as hard as anyone. Every time I see you I can feel the improvements you are making. You will be a great leader some day, I have foreseen it."
Shaak also informed that the achievement levels at each rank – Acolyte, Padawan, Knight, and Master – would henceforth be referred to as "degrees." This was more in keeping with the idea that an acolyte's progression through the Order was a series of steps rather than simply attaining a level and holding it. There was always room for improvement, even at the top, as Shaak's own experience amply showed.
When his name was read, and he came forward to receive his honor, Luke was visibly excited and most gratified to be standing with his master Ahsoka and his training partner, Hedala. The traditional salute was given to each honoree and then Shaak asked for all to take their seats.
"Assembled members of the Order. It is with great pleasure that I deliver this news to all of you today. As your leader, I am here to tell you that the time draws near when we shall defeat the Empire and rise to our destiny. I have gratefully accepted the responsibility of leadership for the Rebel Alliance and now I plan to lead us forward to victory. The Empire will be redrawn and will serve a new purpose – the liberation of the peoples of this Galaxy and end of oppression. As your Empress, I will dedicate myself to bringing about peace, justice, and prosperity to all the worlds of the Galaxy. But before that happens, we have more work to do in order to bring about this result. Today we move forward on the construction of another new base on the Outer Rim, one that will hasten the defeat of those that stand in our way. Our world of Felucia will soon hold thousands more of our brave soldiers – the vanguard troops of a new era. Already our new equipment will continue to arrive from the factory on our sister world of Lianna. Soon we will have all we need to conduct our battle plan.
"My fellow members – today I have received word that a new and larger battle station is now under way. That station will one day belong to us and we shall use it to carry out our mission of uniting the Galaxy and it will be just one of many vessels that will bring me to each sector, so I may personally deliver my assurances to all that I will be your servant and not your ruler. I have spent many years planning for this occasion and I intend to carry it through. More details on our plans will be made available in the days and weeks to come. Be proud, my friends, our time is coming."
Shaak then ended her address and the meeting had concluded. Tri'ku saw Ahsoka coming out of the hall as she, Luke, and Hedala were in a festive mood and wanting to celebrate their promotions. Even so, Ahsoka continued to consider the implications of what Shaak was saying. Can she really become Empress? And how will she handle it … These thoughts were on her mind as she and Tri'ku went off to her house together.
"My love, congratulations on becoming a third-degree Master. Was it what you wanted?" Tri'ku asked in a somewhat humorous manner.
Ahsoka sighed. "Sure. I mean, yes, but now I'm really more concerned about where this is all going. What are we getting ourselves into here?"
Tri'ku shook his head. "Beats me. Your mother is always rather mysterious. How long do you think she has been planning this?"
"Probably for over ten years. She just had to put the pieces together …" Ahsoka paused, then looked at him and smiled. "But I've got to get on with my life too. I've made a new friend recently. She's basically the queen of the planet Lianna, yet she's a really sweet person when you get to know her."
Tri'ku chuckled. "Are you referring to Valles Santhé?"
"Do you know her?"
"I don't know her personally, but I know of her. The Santhé Corporation has had many contracts with us in the past."
Ahsoka nodded. "Well, she's offered me the use of one of her palaces for a few days, for just the two of us. I really want to get away for awhile."
"I'm all for that … Ahsoka, we haven't had as much time together recently, but I know we still have strong feelings for each other. Going to Lianna could be perfect for us. Just so long as your mother doesn't come between us."
"She won't do that, Tri. I've told her how I feel about you and she is supportive. When we get back, she and I have made plans to visit our home-world of Shili. I have often thought about being Togruta and what it really means. Now I am going to learn."
"Of course, I would always support you wanting to do that," he nodded reassuringly. "Everyone should know who they are and where they come from. For many of us, that's fairly simple, but for someone like you, who was taken away from her home at three years of age …"
"Exactly. People have asked me Togruta questions and I've just had to nod and give some vague answers. It always made me feel ashamed, so I just buried my feelings and kept on doing what I had to. But it's always been there … and it's really the same for Mother, too. She has a better understanding of our heritage than I do, but she's wanted to reconnect for a long time and now she has the power to do that. For years, she'd been afraid to leave Felucia because she knew she would be detected and once that happened, there would be nowhere for her to go. But now, with her greatly expanded powers, she's in a position to change all of that. You have to know how much I support her and how happy I am to have connected with her over two years ago."
Tri'ku nodded, then took her in his arms, and caressed her lekku as they kissed. "As long as we are together, I will be happy, you know that."
Felucia, 0 ABY, 7 months, 16 days
The next day, Tri'ku left for Almania via his private shuttle, while Ahsoka rose and went looking for Maris. When they caught up, the Zabrak happily invited the Togruta into her home.
"I'm going to be a Master," she sang out in a joyful tone. "I never would have thought that."
Ahsoka looked at her fondly. "Aw… If anyone deserves it, you do." She paused, then added, "And speaking of that, Mother wants you and me to take a little trip together."
"Oh, really? When do we leave … and where are we going?"
"As soon as you are ready, friend. We are going to Malachor."
Maris didn't miss a beat. "Malachor? That's interesting. Why?"
"I'll tell you everything once we're on our way."
An hour or so later, the two of them were on their way for about a three-hour journey to the barren world. R8-ND handled all the flight details as the two women sat together in the lounge of the Corvala Dawn.
"Maris, my dear friend, I know you are happy about the chance to become a Master. And well you should be. A new world of knowledge and possibilities is about to open its door to you."
"Sounds great, Ahsoka … can I celebrate with a little whiskey?"
Ahsoka chuckled. "There will be time for that later. You are going to need a clear head for what's in front of us."
"Aha. I'm listening."
Ahsoka nodded and continued. "We are going to start with a new power for you. It's called Circle of Light."
"What's it do?"
"It's a little hard to explain, but it allows you to direct energy just about anywhere you want it to go – through walls, open space, water – it doesn't matter. But it's best to do this with a partner, so you are going to learn from me. Together we will be a very powerful force."
Maris grinned. "I like the sound of that..." She then asked, "But why on Malachor?"
"Mother had her reasons. We should find out more once we arrive."
Malachor, 0 ABY, 7 months, 17 days
Once they had arrived, Ahsoka scanned the surface of the planet from a low orbit. She was looking for the remains of the Sith Temple that had collapsed around her and Vader three years earlier, when she had engaged her former master in order to allow Kanan Jarrus and Ezra Bridger to escape. It was then that she knew beyond any doubt that Vader was Anakin. As she passed over the surface, she related these events to Maris.
"Hmm, Ahsoka. I can see why this place holds memories for you. Were you scared when you faced him?"
"Not so much, though maybe I should've been. But I was angry with him too. We fought hard. I used my speed advantage to counter his power but I started to wonder how long I could hold out."
"What happened then?"
"The craziest thing. The temple started to collapse. The last thing I saw was Vader being covered in debris, while I was able to get beneath everything. Once I crawled out of the wreckage, he was gone. I then figured he'd made it to his ship."
"Ooh, so you were abandoned, because your friends had already left."
Ahsoka nodded. "Yep. And that wretch, Maul, too. He'd killed all three of the Inquisitors, and took one of their ships to get away. That left me at least one ship, which I was able to get working. I used it to go to Almania, which isn't very far from here."
"That's an amazing story, friend. I'm sure glad you made it, though."
Maris thought about it for a minute, was about to ask her friend something, then thought better of it. Soon Ahsoka had found the spot where she wanted to land. As they got out, Ahsoka told R8 to watch over the ship and send her immediate notice if anything sketchy happened. Then she and Maris each strapped on their sabres and they walked toward what were the remains of the Temple – seemingly nothing had changed much over the three years since Ahsoka was last there. Maris found herself sniffing the air.
"Something nasty is here, that's for sure. What kind of life is there on this dump of a rock?"
"Not a whole lot, but some hardier vegetation is able to make it, and the climate isn't too bad. The place doesn't get much light from the nearby star because this atmosphere is rather thick. But I've done some studying. This was once a nice place, until the Mandalorian Wars against the Jedi ended. The Jedi had an awful weapon they called the Mass Shadow Generator – it was used and it nearly wiped out everything. But that was almost 4000 years ago. Mother wants us to finish clearing the debris and ruins here and then we can prepare this planet to be a new world again."
Maris seemed rather dubious as she looked around. "How exactly are we supposed to do that?"
"Well, chum, at least we can start. Come with me."
Ahsoka reached out her arms toward Maris, who took both of her hands, creating the link.
"Now we reach out to the Force. Think of the brightest light you can stand – then aim at the temple ruins."
As they did this, a fire broke out some 100 metres away.
"Keep it going, Maris! We have to raise the heat …"
The fire started to expand – then the core of it changed colors, from yellow to blue, then to blue-white. Both of them could feel it starting to get quite hot. After about ten minutes, Ahsoka signaled to Maris again:
"OK, now we raise our hands high, then bring them down. On my mark. Go!"
At that, the fire was suddenly doused. They walked over to the site of it – all the remains of the temple now were ashes. There was no evidence that Malachor had ever housed a Sith Temple, or any other kind of temple.
Maris spoke up. "Did we do it, Master?"
"We did something. I guess we just keep doing it …"
Maris shrugged. "Lead the way, Master."
After a few hours, the two ex-Jedi had started to clear large swathes of territory and had learned variations on the Circle of Light and how to start it and stop it. They began to control the intensity and how to aim it, and as they went along, something interesting began to happen. The sky in spots started to lighten and the sunlight from the system began to pour in. In response, the vegetation started turning much greener and various plant life began to sprout and grow from the soil. Malachor was looking far less barren than it had in centuries, perhaps millennia.
As Ahsoka and Maris took a look around, they also noticed that the rank smells of decomposing organic matter began to dissipate.
"Incredible …" Maris muttered as she examined some of the plants. "It's all new growth. Keep this up, and we'll turn Malachor into Felucia."
Ahsoka breathed in the air. "This must be Mother's plan. By throwing all that Light around, we've changed some things here. Now I'm wondering just why … what her ultimate aim is?"
Maris shook her head. "Beats me … but, Ashli, did she tell you how much we had to do?"
"I think we're good – as of now. We got the practice we needed, which will be useful in the battle ahead of us. Let's head back, but first a stop on Almania so we can pick up my boyfriend …"
"Yeah. I might have figured that was on your mind, Soka. Maybe we could stay at your place there for one night."
"Maybe, but they're in the middle of winter right now. We may need to use the Force to keep us warm."
Felucia, 0 ABY, 7 months, 18 days
Back on Felucia, Chelli Lona Aphra and Jaybo Hood put their heads together and improvised some new design variations on classic Clone War era droid types. Chelli was most excited about the Vulture droids – seemingly standard models that could transform into miniature Starfighters. The buzz droids could overwhelm opposing pilots because they were so hard to get rid of, and they could cling to various surfaces. Jaybo was impressed with the Personality Matrix software Chelli had mastered and realized they could turn out different types of crew members with it, the better to man the various new ships that had been commissioned for the Order. Everything else had been set up – the raw materials shipments, the mining ops on the planet to extract all needed metals, plus the basic Geonosian design of the factory had been replicated to allow multiple production lines. Once the complex was fully built, it took up the space of several city blocks.
Shaak Ti was being brought up to speed on all of these goings-on by Padawan Frehya Lumoxa, who accompanied her to the new factories, where Darth Vader was also monitoring everything. When the GM arrived, he made sure to greet her and she engaged him in conversation.
"Well, Anakin … give me your honest opinion. Do you think this effort is worth the time and money I'm putting into it?"
Vader let a breath cycle go by, then answered. "Master, normally I would say yes. You know I was impressed by Aphra already, and how fortunate to find Hood. Santhe-Sienar gained a well-qualified engineer with him. I seem to recall a time – when he was essentially still a child. He helped Obi-Wan and I out of a tight spot."
Shaak nodded. "Yes, Valles really knows what she's doing. What were your impressions of her?"
"Always very reliable. The Empire could always count on the company when her grandfather ran it. She is no different. Once again, Master, you are most shrewd in whom you work with."
Shaak chuckled. "I like to think so. So, my friend, what do you think of my plan overall?"
Vader paused again. He wasn't sure he knew enough of the details of Shaak's plan, but he had learned to have faith in her judgment and preparation. "Master Ti. I've come to see how wise you are. How stupid I was to ever underestimate you in the past. That will not happen again. So I understand you are planning to take the place of the Emperor."
Shaak nodded and looked at him intently. Vader could begin to feel her energy slowly seeping into his consciousness. He continued. "My master, I know you understand that Palpatine is still powerful … so I also know you have analyzed him carefully."
Shaak smiled. "Indeed I have, Anakin. I'm not going to go into a lot of detail … but let's just say, he's not going to be ready for what I have planned."
Vader nodded and smiled inwardly. I know he will not, Master Shaak. And yet, I really don't know what you have planned. Except that the only one that can stop you … is you.
Shaak turned to him. "What are your thoughts on the droids we are building, then?"
"Quite adequate. Padawan Lumoxa shared the specifications with me. If these forces are used carefully, much damage can be done to Star Destroyers."
"That's right. And then Master Tano and Knight Brood will swing in during the commotion and pull the trigger."
Vader took another breath cycle, then looked at Shaak directly. "So this is some type of decoy operation – the one involving Hoth?"
"Exactly. I never need to explain much to you, Anakin. But … there is one remaining task for you before we make this happen. And I need it done in the next two months."
Vader bowed to her as best he could, then rested his good hand on her shoulder. "I understand, Master. The Emperor has some new allies. I will eliminate them … then he will see that I am still the only option."
"And Tagge?"
"He will join us, Master Ti. Join us or die."
Shaak chuckled, then clapped him on the shoulder. Carry on, then, she Force-projected into his mind.
Lianna, Santhé Suburban Palace, 0 ABY, 7 months, 19 days
The next day, Tri'ku and Ahsoka arrived at Lianna City north-suburban space port aboard Corvala Dawn. They were greeted warmly by Santhé Corporation reps and assisted into a deluxe limousine for the 15-minute ride to Valles's "intimate" palace. Tri'ku had never seen this part of the planet before and the elegant homes with beautifully wooded and manicured grounds were most impressive.
"There certainly isn't a neighborhood like this on Almania," he remarked.
"I imagine not," Ahsoka chuckled.
As they pulled up to the front entrance of the palace, Valles was waiting for them just inside, dressed impeccably in silvery garments as her luxurious black hair was swinging freely behind her, reaching past her buttocks. She was wearing a platinum tiara studded with ostentatious-looking jewels of various sizes. As Ahsoka walked up to her, she extended her arms and the two women hugged warmly.
"So wonderful to see you again, Lady Ahsoka. And to whom do I have the pleasure?"
"This is Tri'ku Je'har, my lady. The former Commodore of the Almanian Self-defense Forces."
Valles's smile grew larger – if that was even possible – as she extended her hand to Tri'ku, who bowed deeply and kissed it, drawing in a large whiff of her intoxicating perfume.
"Ah, Commodore … it's been quite a long time, has it not?" She said with a sly wink. "Ahsoka, you two look wonderful together. I've long admired this gentleman."
"So you …" Ahsoka started, and was interrupted by Valles.
"Indeed we do. This man came into my office about five years ago. Seems he and his government were in the market … for some top grade hardware, do I have that right, sir?"
Tri'ku grinned. "Sounds about right. You know, I am trying to recall the order. But … my lady, I could never forget you."
Ahsoka laughed. "She's something else indeed. Valles … we first want to thank you for extending your gracious hospitality. Tri and I really needed some 'us' time. Do you have our accommodations all picked out?"
"Indeed I do, Master Tano," Valles chuckled, putting just a slight emphasis on the word 'master' as she glanced over her shoulder at Ahsoka, then proceeded to lead her guests to the elevator, which took them to the top floor. They then proceeded directly into the master suite, which covered practically the entire fifth floor of the building.
Both Ahsoka and Tri'ku's jaws dropped as they looked around at the exquisite décor and design, featuring a beautiful palette of spring colors in light shades of green, yellow and blue.
"My friends, and honored guests …" Valles said expansively in a gentle lilting tone. "Welcome to my private suite."
"Oh my," Tri'ku gasped. "I have never seen anything like this before. Thank you so much, Lady Santhé."
"My distinct pleasure, Commodore. All I ask is that you two enjoy yourselves. Whatever you need, just inform the staff." She pointed to various com-links around the huge suite. "Now, I have to run, but I will return this evening so we might have dinner together … unless … you two would rather not be bothered …" She said, with a toss of her hair and a big grin.
As Valles left, Ahsoka and Tri'ku looked at each other, both speechless for the moment. Finally, Ahsoka broke the silence with a laugh. "Hedala, Luke and myself stayed here a few weeks ago, in guest rooms downstairs. They were wonderful, but nothing like this …"
Tri'ku looked around. "So this is how a queen lives …"
The two of them walked around the suite together, taking their time to enjoy all of the little details. Clearly, this had to be one of their hostess's favorite places. It seemed to echo her personality – one of gracious elegance and slight whimsical eccentricity. Before long they had counted over 25 rooms, that included three separate bathrooms, and the main bath area had two separate spa tubs, that could be set to different temperatures and jet speeds. Plus there was exercise equipment adjoining it and the room looked out over the huge pool area on the ground below. Lianna was having another postcard-perfect day as the sun shone brightly and the chromium plated fixtures glittered. Then the two of them made their way into the huge bedroom and proceeded to flop onto the massive bed, which was uncommonly soft yet firm.
"She sleeps here?" Tri'ku asked.
"I know …" Ahsoka shook her head and giggled. "This is really too much. But don't you think she might be a bit lonely?"
"Perhaps … but I don't know why she would need to be. She's rich, warm, kind, gentle, smart … stop me if this gets boring. Did I say rich?" He laughed.
"Well, it's like I told Luke. Valles has to be careful. Plenty of people would like to be where she is."
Tri'ku nodded. "Yeah. I hear you."
"But don't get me wrong, love. I adore her, too."
The two then dozed off to sleep in the blissful comfort of the bed of the richest woman in the Galaxy. When they awoke, they noticed a data pad by the bed and they quickly figured out how to order anything to be brought upstairs from the kitchen. A few minutes later they were noshing on some exquisite delicacies from the local area. Then they went down to the pool area to frolic in the water and sunshine. This was followed by a stroll around the seemingly endless grounds that were mowed to a fine height. They had fun in the hedgerow mazes that had been constructed and walked through the woods via carefully paved trails. Ahsoka and Tri'ku were having the time of their lives and for a while, they had left all of the tensions of the war and everything else light years behind.
Felucia, The Order Hotel, 0 ABY, 7 months, 20 days
While the lovebirds were enjoying their richly feathered love nest, Shaak and the Rebel Alliance leadership were getting down to business on Felucia. They were meeting in a new conference center that had been constructed on the grounds of the guest hotel. Seated around the table, with Shaak at the head, were Mon Mothma, Garm Bel-Iblis, Gial Ackbar, Jan Dodonna, and, for the first time at an Alliance meeting, Darth Vader. Frehya Lumoxa acted as the secretary and took careful notes.
Shaak cleared the air. "All right then, let us summarize our remaining preparations and strategy. We expect Santhé-Sienar to have the full contingent of battle cruisers ready for us in another two months, along with the remaining TIE Defenders. Additional barracks are being completed here and we can then house about 20,000 personnel. In about another week, we will have full squadrons ready to work out on the Defenders, with openings for pilot positions to be made available. Some of the members of the Order will also be getting their opportunities on these craft. Once we have all the pieces in place, the year will almost be complete and we begin preparations for the Hoth engagement. During the interim, convoys of materials and weaponry will be transported from Pantora to Hoth. We will need a fairly convincing show of force in place when the time comes to draw in the Imperials. Are there any questions?"
Vader, predictably, went first. "So, Grand Master, you are allowing three months for me to make all the preparations on my end regarding the Emperor."
Shaak nodded. "Yes, Anakin. This includes all of the droid forces you are overseeing. Doctors Aphra and Hood are your facility managers, and you shall report all progress on this operation to Master Tano."
"Understood, my master."
Mothma then asked, "Master Ti, do you yet have a timetable for the Emperor's retirement?"
Shaak's response was short. "I prefer not to commit to anything beyond a general framework."
"So there are still important components to complete?"
"That is correct. We will meet again in two months time. At that time, I shall have a new presentation for you all."
Ackbar then wanted to know more about what Shaak had done with Felucia, as this was the first time he had been to the planet in almost 20 years.
"This is actually another ongoing project, Admiral. We have made great progress."
"Master Shaak, I am concerned whether the Empire might notice so much traffic building up in this area."
"A good point, sir. This is partly why the ship designs I have commissioned follow Imperial lines. The cruisers and the fighters. As you may have noticed, this world is protected via elaborate measures that conceal it from prying eyes and sensors. We only allow a limited number of landings and departures."
The others understood their roles and the meeting concluded with them preparing to depart for Pantora so as to get the Hoth base construction under way. Mothma asked if she might stay behind for a couple of days so as to get a better feel for the Order and the organization of Felucia. Frehya was assigned to work with her.
Shaak then returned quietly to her home, where she met briefly with Jocasta.
"Jo, I am expecting Lady Valles Santhe to visit us later today. I would like you to join us."
"Wonderful. I have great respect for her. Do you have any role in mind for her in the future?"
"Not as yet. I plan to offer her one, however. A mind like hers would be a great asset for the Second Empire."
Jocasta smiled. "Indeed, she is a wise one, yet still rather young. But … what of Mon Mothma? She seems to want to know more about our operation."
Shaak nodded. "I welcome her interest. I am certain she will want a leading role in our new government when the time comes. One more in the administrative domain. Therefore she wants to grow closer to me and earn my trust."
Jocasta smiled. "I know her well, Master. Not to worry. Mon will accept you as Empress. Like you often say, it is the right thing to do."
(to be continued… )
