This one is long awaited … Shaak and Ahsoka go "home" to Shili and learn much, but first there are a couple of loose ends to tie down, one of these many followers of Ahsoka have long anticipated. Maris and Frehya also gain new trust and responsibilities. Thanks to new followers: gayxman53 and Salvatire.
Chapter 39: Going Home
Felucia, The Order Hotel, 0 ABY, 7 months, 22 days
While Ahsoka and Tri'ku were into their third day at Valles's palace, the Lady herself had been invited to Felucia. She arrived one day later than Shaak had anticipated, but due to her considerable reservoir of charm, things were smoothed over. Frehya showed her around the various facilities after she had checked into the "royal suite" at the new hotel.
"This really is a different kind of place, now, Miss Frehya. I haven't been here since I was a teenager. Back then it was a little bit dangerous."
"I've only been here about two years myself, Chairlady Santhé. Shaak and Maris started remaking the planet shortly after the war ended."
"But I really like the overall look of everything. Your Master has great taste in architecture. It's a unified scheme," Valles noted with a nod.
Frehya chuckled. "Oh, there seems to be no end to her areas of expertise. Military, Medical, Artistic, even Culinary. Shaak is never dull."
As they both laughed, it seemed that Valles had added yet another to her legions of admirers. Due to Felucia's normal hot and humid climate, she had donned a revealing silk dress that was nonetheless comfortable.
Finally, they arrived at Shaak's residence, where Jocasta Nu greeted her just outside. Valles greeted her with a hug and they walked inside, where Shaak was waiting, seated in her usual favorite chair.
"Welcome, my friend Valles." Shaak said cheerfully. "This is my home. Although it likely fits easily into one of your bathrooms, it suits me."
Valles chuckled. "Very cozy, Shaak. I see you are a woman of understated elegance and taste. I rather like it."
Shaak laughed. "You may be the first one to describe it that way."
Valles and Jocasta were seated, when the Grand Master used the Force to bring them each a warm herbal concoction. As they drank it in, they soon felt the tingle as Shaak's Force imprint became etched on their consciousness. Jocasta was well acquainted with the feeling but Valles was a newcomer. She was not used to losing control of her senses and appeared a bit nervous. Shaak spoke to her in a soothing tone.
"My friend, just let go. Relax. You are in a state of enhanced perception and there is nothing to fear."
Valles stuttered for a second. "It's j-j-just th-that I've never tried anything quite like this. But it's tasty and I like this feeling, actually. There are many things I haven't tried, I suppose."
"Nothing wrong with that …" The Togruta assured her. "Now, I invited you here today because I wanted to make you a very special offer."
Valles regained control. She shook her head slightly a couple of times, as if to clear her thoughts, then smiled and gazed at Shaak.
"I'm all right now. An offer?"
"Valles, I consider you quite astute. So you might have already learned that I am the leader of the Rebellion against the Empire."
Valles again paused. "Well … not quite, but I knew you had something planned."
Shaak chuckled. "You could say that. Valles, I will lay it out to you straight. I am going to be assuming the leadership role in the Galaxy in the next few months. When that takes place, I am going to be overhauling the entire executive structure, and toward that end, I will be looking for the brightest minds in the Galaxy. It just so happens that I consider you to be one of those."
Valles seemed to take this news in stride, though inwardly she was quite intrigued. She smiled sweetly and winked.
"Shaak. I must say this comes as a surprise. Let me make sure I heard you correctly and it was not the, shall we say, mind-altering effect of this delicious beverage … when you say "assuming the leadership", could you be a bit more specific?"
Shaak smiled at her, finding the woman as charming as ever.
"Valles. I will become the Empress of the Galaxy. Yes. You heard me correctly."
"Well, then. Does the current occupant of the throne know about this?"
"Not as of yet. We shall be breaking the news to him when the time comes. I have reason to believe he will be … receptive."
Valles stared at her, still smiling, then glanced at Jocasta, but the other ex-Jedi gave no signs. She turned back to Shaak.
"This is rather sudden, it seems. I first must ask how this might affect Santhe-Sienar business."
Shaak looked over at Jocasta, and, satisfied that her friend was betraying nothing, answered: "All existing contracts will continue under their current terms … ah, but, I'm certain you have additional inquiries …"
Valles drank some more and took a breath. "Shaak, I really had no idea that politics was one of your pursuits. I'm not going to ask you how you will bring about this circumstance, but let's just entertain the notion. Why, exactly, do you want the job?"
Shaak's eyes narrowed a bit, but otherwise there was no change in her expression.
"Because the Galaxy is in need. Be honest. Surely you can find room for improvement over the current administration?"
Without missing a beat, Valles smiled and answered. "I suppose so … so you would want me to be part of this? I must say, Shaak, this is an honor. Where would you want me to serve?"
"That can be worked out in due time. You would get a role commensurate with your many talents. Financial, organizational, commercial … did I leave anything out?"
Valles shook her head. "That's a good summary. I am still young, as you know."
"Indeed. I'm thinking you might be an excellent chief of staff. A sort of gatekeeper, as it were. I shouldn't have to tell you the potential of such a role."
Valles nodded, and gave a slight smirk. "Chief of Staff to the Empress. Perhaps a Grand Vizier. I would assume the current holder of that position will also be taking early retirement?" She recited, in a lilting, almost musical, tone.
Shaak let out a loud laugh, then quickly composed herself.
"We will see about it. So may I assume your interest?"
"Indeed you may, Shaak. If you do become Empress, I would love to serve at your side."
Lianna, Santhé Suburban Palace, 0 ABY, 7 months, 23 days
Ahsoka and Tri'ku awoke early on their fourth day on Lianna at the suburban palace of Lady Valles Santhe, but preferred to remain in the luxurious bed for a while after that.
When I'm with you … It doesn't matter where we are … or what we're doing … I'm here that's all that matters …
Time passes much too quickly when we're together laughing … I wish I could sing it to you
When I kiss you … I feel a thousand different feelings … a cover of chills, all over my body
And while I feel them, I quickly try to decide which one … to try to put into words …
This is only the beginning … of what I want to feel forever.
"Ooh, love … it's too much – but I love it," Ahsoka remarked blissfully as her lekku had turned bright blue. She was not in the habit of enjoying such accommodations – she vividly recalled trying to sleep on hard benches at times during her war days – but found herself growing to like them very much. This included borrowing some of the Lady's custom made sleepwear.
Tri'ku laughed. "I am so glad I got to be the one to enjoy it with you … the luxury looks so good on you."
"So what are we going to do today, Tri?" she sighed.
"Looks like pretty much anything we want to. I'd kinda like to go into the City for a bit and do some sightseeing. You will be most impressed. Everything's up to date on Lianna."
Tri'ku showed Ahsoka around Lianna City, one of the more livable metropolises in the Galaxy. The air was always fresh and clean. The parks were beautifully appointed, with lovely fountains that lit up in various colors at night. The office towers were everywhere, in various architectural styles. Speeder traffic was carefully regulated so as not to clutter the skies and there truly seemed to be no "seedy side" of town, unlike the lower levels on Coruscant. Before they went for lunch they ascended one of the towers and looked out over the city, which spread in all directions.
"It's just beautiful. And it always seems to be sunny and warm. When does it rain?" Ahsoka asked.
"They allow that at regular intervals, to circulate the moisture in the air, as needed for the agricultural sectors. Water on Lianna is mostly kept below the surface and its purity carefully maintained. There is essentially no sewage as you might find on lesser developed worlds, as everything runs through various filters, with needed elements extracted for food production."
"Quite ingenious, really," Ahsoka remarked. "But there are no beaches, I suppose."
"Not like on Vaynai, anyway. The people here have plenty of time off to travel the galaxy and visit other worlds, but many told me they always preferred to come home."
"And Valles runs all of this?"
"Not directly. But she consults on many governmental and quality of life issues. As the leading employer, her voice is always welcomed."
"It's wonderful, really. Have you ever thought of retiring here someday? Almania seems shabby in comparison."
"Who can say … it's certainly an attractive possibility … which brings me to something I've been wanting to ask you."
"Yes, love?"
"Ahsoka, have you given any thought to formalizing our relationship?"
"As a matter of fact, I have. Would you like to try being married? I do love you so."
Tri'ku nodded, then took her in his arms and hugged her. "I've been thinking about it a lot recently."
The two of them smiled at each other and kissed, which grew passionate for an instant. As she withdrew, Ahsoka laughed nervously. "Ooh, Tri. Should we do it?"
He nodded. "We should. Ahsoka, will you marry me?"
She smiled and nodded. "Yes. I will."
Lianna, Santhé Suburban Palace, 0 ABY, 7 months, 24 days
The next day, Valles returned to Lianna and her suburban palace. She had a full breakfast with her guests, who thanked her profusely.
"Val …" Ahsoka gushed. "These were the happiest few days of my entire life. Living here in your beautiful palace, we could fall in love with it and never want to leave."
She laughed. "I'm so happy. You two deserved it. Such wonderful guests. The staff informed me how kind you both were. You can come here anytime … maybe not always use my private suite, but …"
Tri'ku added. "You have such a way about you, Valles. It shows in everything you do, and the city reflects your wonderful heart. The people of Lianna owe you a great deal."
Valles blushed. "I really don't deserve that … but ... I'll take it! Thank you, sir." She reached up and kissed him tenderly on the cheek.
Soon Ahsoka and Tri'ku were on their way back to Felucia. When they arrived, they went to Ahsoka's home and sat down to relax for a bit, but soon after, Shaak was calling. She Force-projected to Ahsoka that it was time to start preparing for their trip to Shili. After some more love making and happy talk between the newly engaged pair, the younger Togruta made her way over to her mother's home.
Felucia, Shaak's home, 0 ABY, 7 months, 24 days
"So … I can see someone had a nice time," Shaak's voice purred. "Do you love him, my child?"
"Yes." Ahsoka's reply was short and to the point. "So, Mother. Tell me about Shili. I'm starting to get excited – in a way."
"Well, my dear. There is some basic knowledge you should have."
Shaak then proceeded to tell Ahsoka about their home world.
"My darling. Our home has thousands of years of history behind it. We are a proud people, one with many great traditions. The land is fertile and the grasses grow very tall. There is much water and the seas are mostly mild and only about 20 percent of the surface but the climate is very benign. It never gets too hot or too cold. Because there is so much to eat, from the various fruit trees and wild vegetables and herbs, there are many species of animals and our people became quite adept at hunting them – especially those larger and fiercer. I'm sure you've heard of the mighty Akul – a huge beast with sharp teeth and a bad attitude."
"Yes, Mother. I've read about them and how much we honor our history by fighting one."
"Traditionally, it would take as many as ten people to effectively take down an Akul, but as time went on, our species became adept at developing various tools. And then there were the encounters with off-worlders."
"How do you think that went?" Ahsoka asked, after nodding her head.
"It must have been quite disruptive. At first we were a wild species, living off the land and then, suddenly, strange invaders from other worlds came. But we were fortunate because many of those visitors came to respect us and they helped us, too. Helped us become a part of the Galaxy. And in so doing, many Togruta were able to leave Shili and see other worlds themselves. Some of us became Jedi … and others joined with the Sith."
"So, Mother, what is Shili like today?"
Shaak smiled and continued. "It is a world with about 220 million sentient inhabitants. The native Togruta are about 90 percent of the total. Many of us who left in centuries past brought back modern galactic technology and culture, so we have modern cities. Our capital, Corvala, the one you named your spaceship after – a nice touch, by the way, which I greatly appreciated – has about 3 million living in its immediate area. The non-Togruta, mostly humans, Duros, and Neimodians, live in the cities. They have come mostly from the Core worlds, but you will find some from Onderon and Mandalore. They have carved out a good life, as they respect the natives."
"What are we known for, around the Galaxy today?"
"One of the things most notable is our cuisine, which is sought after for its strong flavors and delicate textures. We have modern agriculture but most Togruta prefer vegetable matter to grain-based foods. Of course, our wide variety of meats is what makes it interesting. Togruta chefs have become renowned over the Galaxy. I'm told some even have their own cooking programs on the Holonet and even the snootier people from the Core love our food. Eventually, we also added plant and animal matter from our oceans. Some of the most exclusive eateries on Coruscant and other power worlds feature Togruta cuisine. It's considered quite upscale. Also, our expertise in herbal matters has created many medicinal remedies and drugs, and Togruta healers are also greatly sought after."
"So how does Shili fare under the Empire?"
"Fortunately, we are not a world that contains much in the way of raw materials that can be used for starship construction or other military uses, so our planet has not been carved up beyond a few exploratory mine shafts. As you are well aware, our people have been taken by slavers in centuries past and this accelerated somewhat in the last decades of the Republic. At times, I tried – with little success, regrettably – to raise this matter with the Jedi Council. I got plenty of sympathy, but little in the way of action. Needless to say, then-Chancellor Palpatine was of little help. Anyway, ironically enough, the Empire has done much to crack down on the slave trade – at least in the Core and Expansion regions, and for that, many Togruta have become somewhat loyal Imperials. But others still grumble privately that we are treated as second-class elsewhere in the Galaxy. For the most part, though, Palpatine is popular on Shili, though I doubt he has so much as paid us a visit."
"Mother, you have sometimes told me of the spiritual nature of our people. But tell me how this plays out in the modern Galaxy."
"Well … I am glad you asked about this. The Togruta spirituality is deeply ingrained into our society and consciousness. It was many centuries and millennia ago that we discovered the Force. We became adept at using it and understanding it and saw it as an extension of the gods that we worshipped and believed had provided us our world and its great natural bounty. We believe the Force was our way of connecting with these gods and we saw them as physical manifestations of our belief system, not mystical entities that could not be seen. Of course, with the rise of the Empire, it became unwise to talk openly of the Force or demonstrate its capabilities. But the older masters – the Kuu'gru as we call them – still practice quietly. You may be unaware of this, but Togruta can live for many years longer than most humans. This is due to our ability to treat all disease that we might encounter on Shili, but of course, there are many previously unknown afflictions on other worlds that are far more difficult to treat."
"So, can I – can you – live for a long time? I'd like that …"
"Yes, my child."
"And would you and I be considered Kuu'gru on Shili today?"
"Undeniably, we will be. But we shall take this responsibility seriously and not divulge much of our Force ability or knowledge openly. I will explain more when we get there."
"Mother, do you think we will find our parents? Are they still alive? I'm becoming very hopeful …"
"I have already found mine, and have reached out via correspondence. My mother and father are still alive, though both are over 100 standard years of age. I also have a brother, I am told. So it may be possible to find your parents and siblings as well."
Ahsoka took a deep breath as she mulled this over. "Hmm … how great would that be…"
Shaak smiled and then hugged Ahsoka tenderly. "It would be wonderful for you…" she said soothingly.
Felucia, Shaak's home, 0 ABY, 8 months, 16 days, 10 hours
Three weeks passed. Shaak and Ahsoka were almost ready to leave together to go to Shili. Before they did, though, Shaak had to attend to some important administrative matters on Felucia. First she called Maris to her home. When the Zabrak arrived, this time she had a broad smile on her face, still excited over her increased authority and her recent trip to Malachor with Ahsoka and her expanding set of powers.
"Come in, my dear," Shaak called out as she detected Maris outside her door. With a quick flick of her finger the door opened and Maris walked in.
"Good morning, Grand Master," the Zabrak sang out happily,
Shaak blushed a little. "Well, you're in a great mood. What I have to say will probably make you even happier. As you know, Ahsoka and I are leaving later today to go to Shili. We will be gone for about 7 or 8 days, and this means that you will be in charge around here."
Maris beamed. "Thank you, my lady. You can count on me."
Shaak continued. "I know that. I want you to work closely with Frehya. She is going to become a Knight later today before I leave. There will be a ceremony for her when we return but I want her to be in a position to share some authority with you. Maris, I want you and Freh to support each other, as good team members should do."
"I like her, Master. She's very smart, but not arrogant. We should be fine together."
"Good. I will be meeting with her later today to inform her. One more thing."
"Yes, Master?"
"In about 2 to 3 months, we will be involved in a battle near Hoth, where we are setting up the decoy base." Maris nodded, as the GM continued. "Before that battle, I see no reason why you cannot assume the role of Master."
Maris took a deep breath, as she realized her long-hoped dream was close to being reality.
"Maris, this role brings so many new possibilities to your life. Being a Master is much more than increased knowledge and powers. It is a term of respect, that only those with the deepest commitment can ever be considered for. As you know, I will become Empress soon, and when I do, I have a special role for you. At my side, you will become the Empress's Hand."
"What is that, Master?"
"Someone to act as my defender and enforcer, but also as an overseer of the entire Imperial military apparatus. It's a huge opportunity, but one that you shall have earned. Of course, it doesn't mean you will be the high command of the military, but it does mean you will act as my eyes and ears when I cannot be there."
"I don't know what to say, Master Shaak. I am truly humbled by this level of trust. I will be Master Brood …" she intoned in a most reverent manner, and looked upward.
Shaak smiled, then nodded, and took Maris's hands in hers. Soon she sent a powerful surge of energy into her longtime apprentice. It was a way of sealing the promise she had just made, and Maris felt the power surging into her and was deeply gratified.
As Shaak let go of her, she had a request.
"Can you find Freh and tell her what I just told you about and what you both will be doing in my absence? Then send her over here. Thank you, Maris. That is all."
Felucia, Ahsoka's home, 0 ABY, 8 months, 16 days, 11 hours
Tri'ku Je'har and Ahsoka said farewell to each other – until Ahsoka would return from Shili. They started thinking about the planning for their upcoming wedding. Tri prepared his shuttle for a trip to Almania and he would be staying at Ahsoka's home there – which had become their home. They had decided it might be best to wait until after the upcoming Battle of Hoth before having the ceremony and reception, as many details had to be worked out, such as the location. Felucia … Almania … Shili … or even Lianna? So many decisions.
Ahsoka had not even considered what type of bridal attire might suit her best. At this point, they decided to keep Shaak out of their plans, even though, as "mother of the bride," she would have an important role in the ceremony. Whom to ask as Maid of Honor? Maybe Valles. With Leia, Frehya, and Hedala as bridesmaids … Ahsoka's head was spinning. This was something she had never had to think about before.
Felucia, Shaak's home, 0 ABY, 8 months, 16 days, 12 hours
Frehya then returned to Shaak's home after having met with Maris and learned the plans and agenda while Shaak and Ahsoka would be off-world. She was still staying in Shaak's home and had grown ever closer to the Grand Master. Shaak especially admired how the Almanian was adept at knowing (and remembering) her preferences and various other personal and intimate things. Frehya lovingly looked after Shaak's wardrobe, her kitchen, and keeping the house tidy (which was managed by a service droid). She even cooked for Shaak on occasion, having become familiar with the GM's tastes.
Frehya knew well about the plans and figured at some point they would be moving to Coruscant, something that filled her with intrigue but also some concerns. As Frehya took a seat, Shaak came up to her and smiled.
"This is a big opportunity for you, my dear friend. Maris needs a reliable and knowledgeable assistant while Ahsoka and I are away. Do you have any questions or concerns?"
"I think I am good, Master. I really hope you and Master Ahsoka have a wonderful time on your home planet. Also bring back some delicious food …!"
Shaak laughed heartily. "We will see to that. Freh, someday you will come with us to Shili."
"Oh, I would like that."
"One more thing. I have given this careful consideration, and I think the time is right. I've decided to promote you to Knight of the Order, first degree. Not only have you earned it, you also will need the access to greater control that the role gives you. I will add your name as a guarantor on some of our accounts so you will have financial authority. I really need you and Maris to be on the same page, she will greatly depend on you."
Frehya nodded and indicated her understanding. "I am speechless. Amazing that you think I deserve this honor."
"Not only do you deserve it, I very much need you in it. I think you have come to realize what a crucial role you are starting to play around here. Everyone is rather impressed with you. Maris herself would be the first to tell you that she cannot imagine taking charge without you backing her up."
"So I'm going to be a Knight … you know, Shaak, when I was a little girl, I dreamed of joining the Jedi and fighting for the Republic, but I never got the chance. It was hard for me to even leave Almania. I came from a working-class family and we rarely had much money. Even a trip to Vaynai was out of the question. And though I joined the military and was the first in my family to receive a college education, I never earned very much doing that. This day is the realization of a dream for me."
Shaak looked at Frehya lovingly. "I am so happy for you, then. And I greatly appreciate you sharing that with me. Your future is not only bright, it is incandescent. As you know, I'm going to be Empress. And I will need people around me that I can trust. And you are clearly one of them. Simply put, your mind is a treasure and it has given us the ability to move much faster than I would have believed a year ago … So, then. I will be reachable via com device while we are gone but only wish to be contacted if it is a true emergency. Rise, Knight Lumoxa."
Frehya stood and smiled. Shaak grasped her hands and gave her a surge of power, warming her to her core.
"Frehya, as a Knight, I would like you to construct a new sabre. Maris will work with you to assist you in picking out the right crystal. You shall have a pink sabre just like she and I do, which is the mark of distinction in the Order."
Frehya was about to curtsy, then decided to bow instead, as a Knight was expected to do. She realized then and there that she was a real player and a feeling of pride came over her. If they could only see me now, that old gang of mine … she thought.
Shaak sensed her feelings and she came close to Frehya. The two women exchanged kisses and again hugged. With that, Shaak led them both outside, where Ahsoka was waiting. Ahsoka, who already had been told what would take place, came up to Frehya and exchanged kisses as well, then Force-projected into her. I am so happy for you. This is your day. Enjoy it.
Shaak's speeder took Ahsoka and the GM over to Corvala Dawn, which was now ready for departure. The two Togruta masters boarded and turned back to wave goodbye to Maris and Frehya, who smiled and waved in return. The journey was about to begin. As the ship lifted off, Frehya and Maris went off together in the direction of the Assembly Hall.
In hyperspace going to Shili, 0 ABY, 8 months, 17 days
The trip from Felucia to Shili would take about ten hours. Shaak and Ahsoka each went to the master's quarters and shared the bed together as mother and daughter. As they meditated, many feelings came over them. Ahsoka was growing excited, feeling in her gut that she was going to discover so much on this voyage. Shaak had become calm and still, as she waited for the Force to push her in the right direction. Her aim was to improve the Galaxy and restore the promise of a better future for all, a promise that many had believed some twenty years earlier when Palpatine first proclaimed the Empire and named himself Emperor. Now Shaak was preparing to proclaim a New Empire, and herself as Empress. But for the transition to be successful, she would have to appear to be getting his blessing. Only then could the Empire truly become hers, and do so in a largely peaceful manner.
Of course, Shaak had a meticulously crafted plan to ensure that would happen. As she reflected upon it, the Force seemed to confirm her confidence in her preparation. All systems go. So now it was time to relax and allow the Force to guide her once they had reached Shili.
(to be continued … )
