Chapter 7


Sophy'a slowly guided the ship in the heavy coruscanti atmosphere, passing by narrow rows of airspeeder traffic.

"It's funny," Sophy'a said, her eyes carefully trained on the sky around them, "The way I thought i'd arrive here would be to spy on their government, not to negotiate with them." her escorts peeled off as she lowered the ship down on the designated landing pad; a octagonal shaped platform extending from a main plaza.

"Hey, remember," Sophy'a said, giving Carmari an almost pleading look, "these types of operations are...delicate." she got up from her seat, "Don't say a word," her tone became stern, "let me do the talking." she implored him.

Carmari looked towards her, "Hah, don't worry," he said, getting up as well, "I've had my share of talks," he waltzed passed her and started to make for the boarding ramp, nonchalantly pressing the button to lower it, "Trust me, I wouldn't want to talk anyway." A rush of cool air rushed into the ship as the ramp hit the ground. As Carmari walked down the ramp, the Protocol droid from before, the CN unit, came to greet them, but stopped in confusion.

"Oh, Terribly sorry sir!" he said, not recognising the man who just walked out of the ship, "I do apologise, Sir! I do believe this ship was instead owned by a Representative for the Sith Empire."
"That would be me." Sophy'a said, giving Carmari a small smirk and down to the platform.

So much for Professionalism. Sophy'a said to herself, adjusting her collar.

"Ah, Greetings Mistress! My Master has already prepared for your arrival, please, follow me!" Sophy'a and Carmari followed the droid down the platform and to the entrance. The floor they walked on was covered in red carpet and the entrance to the Senate building was a grand artwork of Gold and other precious metals from across the Galaxy. The Sides of the path had banners of all the different species that were members of the senate being represented. Every few meters had topiary trees which shook in the light breeze. Strings of lights and large bright banners also were hanged around on poles and over the trees.

Carmari whispered to her, "I almost wished I had worn something more…"

"Casual?" Sophy'a said, noticing the glares they were receiving from the beings they walked past.

"Something like that." Carmari nodding his head from side to side.

She looked around at the Human and Aliens that strolled around her. Despite many aliens being among the onlookers, even they around her looked at her with some kind of contempt behind their eyes. They looked at her for a moment, then silently went on with whatever they were doing. Sophy'a let a little anger grow inside of her, but shook it off and took a deep breath.

"Whys there so much construction?" Carmari asked as he looked around, seeing the many construction machines and cranes that surrounded the senate building among various other buildings in the skyscape.

The droid answered, "Over Coruscant lengthy History, It has long been under the eye of Invaders. Around six standard years ago, the Sith Empire was one such Invader." Carmari looked at Sophy'a, who blushed slightly, "Really." he said, raising an eyebrow.

"I wasn't active in the Battle." Sophy'a said, shaking her head. "It was long after I was stationed on Mordon'Morar"

"And later, the Eternal Empire put a fee on our supplies beyond a certain point, limiting on our ability for reconstruction." the droid concluded.

Sophy'a nodded, agreeing with the droid. I have no idea if the Empire had that kind of cap, but considering the state it was in, I don't think it would've been hard to let the empire be on its own like it was.

The droid continued on then stopped them at a security checkpoint. "Please place all your Weapons here, as they will not be allowed when you go in to see my Master."

She hesitantly placed her Pistols and both knife's on the rack, and Carmari did the same, only he simply carried a sidearm.

"Any communication devices are forbidden as well." it said, looking down at their comlinks.

This droid might as well ask for an arm and a leg. She joked, dropping her comlink on the rack.

"Fear Not," the droid said, noticing their faces, "You are allowed to retrieve your equipment at your departure from the Senate Plaza, now please, this way."

The droid walked them across the main lobby, each step the three making another Tap sound among the dozens of other beings walking along with them. A turbolift which was placed at the far end of the senate plaza. The Droid led them inside and, at the press of a button, closed the doors, allowing the turbolift to shoot up at near discomforting speeds. Sophy'a used the time to review on her plan, thought up things to say, possible introductions for herself and Carm, but before she could even formulate something comprehensive, the Turbolift doors opened out to another smaller lobby.

Take a deep breath. She remembered, feeling more anxious as time went on..

She looked at Carmari, who was already looking at her as they walked out of the turbolift into the room. It was small, with only a small reception area. It was decorated with small red couches placed near the walls and artificial vegetation, as well as long robed bronze statues looking to hold something only Jedi and Sith wielded.

Lightsabers.

"Ah, Welcome." the Secretary said, typing away on his computer. "The Chancellor will meet you Inside."

The Chancellor himself…The fact that the Chancellor himself decided this matter needed to be taken personally added to her anxiety.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Carmari having a similar look in his eyes.

"Thanks." Carmari said as the three walked by the reception desk, who just nodded. The droid led the two down a hallway then to a set of doors. The Doors slid open to reveal a wide and open office, decorated in the same style as the reception area and covered in a regal republic Red and hints of Gold. Guards dressed in Red robes stood silently, moving their heads and keeping their eyes on the two new arrivals. A small wooden desk was placed in front of three chairs, The wall on the far opposite of her was a window that gave the viewer a wonderful display of the Coruscant atmosphere. In Front of that window stood a Man, his hands behind his back, looking out to the Coruscant skyscape. He then turned around, setting his eyes upon the two.
"Ah, Welcome to Coruscant." The Man said, bowing. His voice was old, but smooth, and felt aged. His hair and beard was greying, and wrinkles were already forming on his forehead. His armor creaked and he bowed.

Sophy'a herself bowed in response. She noticed Carmari's hesitation. She grunted quietly, grabbing Carmari's attention. He noticed his mistake and bowed himself.

I wonder if it's obvious to him yet that this is a different galaxy then what he knows.

Sophy'a returned her attention to the Man which stood before her. Her eyes grew in surprise as she saw a pair of gleaming lightsabers hanging in plain view from his belt.

"I am Chancellor Malcomic," he extended his hands,

"Please, take a seat."


"Would you like any Refreshments?" the Chancellor of the Republic said as they sat down in the desk in front of him.

"Water will do just fine." Sophy'a said.

Carmari thought for a bit, then, nervously, choose water as well.

Or was that how beings here show insult?

"Sorry, Sir, I'm not used to the customs here."

The Chancellor chuckled, "That's All-right, its seems we're all out " finally he sat down as well, slowly lowering himself into the cushioned chair. "I Must admit," He started, "I expected the Empire to send someone….different." He waited a moment. "My apologies, if it offended you."

"I didn't expect a Jedi to be Chancellor of the Republic." Sophy'a countered. Carmari began to panic,

What was she doing?

But the man chuckled, "True, quite a journey it was."

"Perhaps you would grace us with the story." Sophy'a said.

The Chancellor chuckled, "Perhaps another time, but for the Present, What are your names, or should I call you Mr and Ms Imperial Envoy's?"
Carmari could see her face blush ever so slightly, "You may call me Cipher Nine, and this is my associate, Carmari,"

"Your Excellency." Carmari said, nodding.

"A name for one, but not for the other...curious." the Chancellor clapped his hands together. "In any case, now that we got pleasantries out of the way..." a Droid arrived setting the drinks before them, the Chancellor face beamed. He nodded and looked first at Sophy'a, then to Carmari, "We can get down to business."

In other words, a boring conversation. Carmari thought, almost yawning and relaxing himself in his chair.

"My sources tell me of major reforms in the recent history of the Sith Empire." the Chancellor started, taking a sip from his mug, "I wanted to confirm firsthand."

Sophy'a responded, "you are correct, to an extent, Chancellor."

"Hm," the Chancellor said, "I see. The reason I called you here is," he paused, looking at both of them again, "Well, we require your assistance, Cipher Nine."

"What do you mean?" Carmari said, hastily regretting it as he saw Sophy'a give him a glare.

"Your activities have not gone unnoticed in the Galaxy." The Chancellor begun. "Many in the Republic as well have noticed the new rising power that is the Sith Empire. Their New Empress is certainly causing a commotion."

Carmari thought back to her one and hopefully only time seeing her, then could see that the Chancellor was right.

"In truth," the Chancellor said soberly, "The Empress causing a political uproar. Senators are raging for her head before she stikes off ours, however," he paused,

"Some of us here," the Chancellor continued, "Could see the benefit in a mutual relationship, if even for a moment."
"What are you supposed?" Sophy'a said, her voice noticeably skeptical.

"A simple mutual Business arrangement, nothing more." he said, stroking his beard.

"Concerning?" Sophy'a asked.

"Your Raids on the Eternal Empire." he said. Carmari's eyes grew wide open, but Sophy'a remained calm, Carmari couldn't tell what was going on in her head.

"The SIS hasn't been sitting on their hands, my friends." Chancellor clarified. "We know well about the incognito raids that sypon little victories from the Eternal Empire. The Republic would very grateful for a portion for those supplies for our needs."

"What's in it for the Empire?" Sophy'a asked, crossing her arms.

"In Exchange," The Chancellor said, "the Republic will extend an olive branch towards the Empire, and wont instead give the information we've gathered to those in charge over at the Eternal Empire."

Sophy'a's face grew darker as well and her voice grew hard. "Intimidation is hardly the Jedi way, Chancellor."

The Chancellor leaned in his chair, "Unfortunately, I also have a Republic to take care of."

"Wait," Carmari said, "what if there could be another way?"

"Carm" Sophy'a said, but Carmari continued, "We're in possession of the Eternal Empire's prisoner data;" He paused, as everyone leaned in to listen. "The captured Jedi of the Eternal Empire."

"Carm!" Sophy'a said, more stern.

"If what you say is True," The Chancellor said, "And if they are alive...I must be given time for the senate to consider such an offer. More Jedi by our side would be…" he paused, his voice growing sorrowful, "encouraging at the least." He lifted himself up from his chair. "Until then, You are free to leave and enjoy the Republic capital, arrangements had been made for your resting of course." The two got up and bowed,

"A pleasure, Chancellor." said Sophy'a.

"Thank you, rather. I will alert you when the senate has come to a decision." He said, turning his back to them and began to stare out the Window at the vast row of unfinished buildings and speeder traffic.

"Until then…" the Chancellor said, his voice trailing off. "May the Force be with you."

"This way," the Protocol droid said, as he escorted the two outside to the turbolift. The droid pressed the lever and sent the turbolift down to its destination.


What was he thinking?

"What were you thinking?" Sophy'a yelled as she slammed Carmari onto the wall, her arm pressing against his throat, pinning him to the turbolift cart wall.

"Relax!" Carmari said, trying to take a breath.

"Relax?" She said, "We aren't in possession of that Information! AT. ALL. We cannot make good on that deal!"

"I..Am…" Carmari said. Sophy'a let go of him, allowing him to breath and left some oxygen get to his brain

Because it was obvious that it wasn't working before.

"Explain." she said, her voice hard and cold.

"Look," Carmari began, "the Eternal Empire keeps Data in circulation throughout the galaxy when it wants to keep it secretive, this is nearly the same technology as with the dreadnaught's slave rigging."
Sophy'a nodded. "So you don't have the information." she said, her voice saturated with anger. The door to the turbolift slid open and the two walked over to where their weapons were placed. The gathered them from the racks and slid them into their hoisters.

"No…" Carmari said, "But I know how to get it."


A few moments later they were in a speeder heading towards the Hotel that the Chancellor had reserved for the two. When Sophy'a got off the speeder and approached the lobby, a Man greeted them, his uniform dressed in a golden shade of red, and hair was slicked back with gel. His short muschtashe as well was similarly covered in the substance.

"Welcome to 500 Republica!" the man said.

500 Republica was a newly looking built structure specifically for dignitaries and senators. It was built nearly a few kilometers from the Senate and even had private transportation to the senate and back. According to what her driver said, there was also a nice bustling market a short walk away, complete with restaurants, resorts, and spas.

Immediately Sophy'a heightened her senses.

"May I Take your bags?" He said, already moving his hands towards Sophy'a's luggage brought onboard from the Cordona Blu.

"No." She said, hastefully. The Man backed off, fear momentarily striking his eyes, but he shook it off. "And you, Sir?" He said, motioning to Carmari.

"Sure." he said, handing him the small carry on.

"Excellent!" he said joyously as he took it.

"What was that about?" Carmari said, noticing Sophy'a's reaction to the Bellhop.

"He snuck up on me." She said, walking faster now. She saw Carmari shrug then follow behind her and the bellhop. The three gathered in a turbolift and it shot up. As the turbolift went up, it gave them a wonderful view of the senate building as the evening grew. Sophy'a looked around to the subtle hints of wealth located around the lift, little bars of gold and silver built directly into the walls around her.

Very Expensive. She thought.

The turbolift dinged and immediately the assistant went out, and Sophy'a and Carmari followed him down a hallway until they came to two opposite rooms.

"Your Room is on the Left, Ms," the Assistant said, handing Sophy'a the key. The two looked at the door, then back to the assistant.

"My name is Jacklim, if you should ever need anything, My information is in the rooms. Don't forget to remember to join us for Founders day tomorrow evening!"

Founders day? Would account for the decorations and ribbons outside. The assistant stepped back, "And Enjoy your stay." he turned his heels and walked off. Sophy'a let the scanner scan the key and, with a small beep, unlocked the door. Sophy'a and Carmari walked inside and look around; The room was decorated lavishly with highly priced Decorations mounted on the wall. The suite was divided by a large den coupled with a small kitchen, with two closed bedrooms on either side. The back wall of the den was made of glass and led out into a balcony. Sophy'a looked out to see the Jedi Temple in the far background of the skyscape, the sun setting behind its remains.

"So what's the plan now?" Carmari said, walking in and taking a deep breath. Sophy'a looked at the chrono watch, "It's late," Sophy'a said, almost sounding tired. "Best to sleep early so we can actually deliver that information you owe the most powerful Man in the Republic." Sophy'a made sure her distaste was made obvious just by hearing her tone of voice. "If we cant get that information, that means no alliance with the Republic, and itd be near impossible with "
"Ah," Carmari said, his face moping. He dropped his bag and plopped himself in the couch. It was lower than he expected, as Sophy'a saw his face grew terrified as his body dropped far lower than he liked, very nearly catching himself. Which made her mood a little lighter, she even almost laughed, but she revealed it in a slight smirk.

"Im heading to bed," She excused herself, "Goodnight." she walked towards the door hastily.
"Goodnight." Carmari called behind her, she then closed the door and locked it. She sighed and took the band out of her hair, letting it flow down. She quickly threw it on the nearby desk and changed out of the Imperial uniform she wore. She took a deep breath.

How long has it been since I slept in a warm bed? She gasped, nearly fooling herself to believe she could relax in peace.

Has bringing him ruined the entire operation? Not just on Coruscant, but with finding Vern?

The question haunted her as she fell on the bed and tried to fall to sleep,


"So let me get this straight," Sophy'a said to Carmari as they walked on the coruscanti street. The air was cold and smelled like metal, and only a light breeze rolling between the massive skyscrapers were the only indications for him that this was a planet and not some kind of advanced atmospheric biome that was popular on His home.

Zakuul. He thought, reminiscing back to his home, the street reminded him of the climate and surroundings, on his once home world. A twinge of pain found its way into his thoughts, on his father and his home hunting him down, marking him down as a traitor.

Loyalty or Death…

At least the planet was in celebration, with Founders day celebratory booths and floating balloons in the streets.

"You don't actually have a plan to catch the coded information; And even if you do get hold of it, it would take time to crack the encryption module to actually make the information useable."

"And its possible it wouldn't work at all." Carmari finished, only earning a simple roll of the eyes from Sophy'a. She was wearing civilian gear, a light jacket with a hood, loose pants, as well as a pair of shades to cover her red eyes from over curious bystanders and excited children wondering which planet she was from.

Carmari imagined for a moment the idea of a whole planet of her species, only to internally shudder in response.

"Look," he said, trying to ease her thoughts, "Encryption models should be easy to crack, if you know the pool of sequences, the models changes nearly every week, but most are variations of each other, so they shouldn't be too hard to figure out."

"Have you ever done it?" Sophy'a asked, an eyebrow raised.

"No…" Carmari said, hanging his head lower in shame.

"Wonderful." she said.

"But we'll get to that issue when we get there." Carmari said, "For now, we need to actually get that information and equipment to give to the Republic; which means we'll need a Holodata net." he turned his head to Sophy'a, "Any ideas?"
"Hmm," Sophy'a said, suddenly her face lit up, "A few…"


Out of all the Wretched hives of scum and villainy in the Galaxy Sophy'a thought as she looked around.

This one must be the cleanest.

Around her, Humans and Aliens alike relaxed and enjoyed themselves as the lively music played.

For once, a Cantina was actually clean. Sophy'a noticed how her own civilian clothing and shade's to hide her red eyes were almost nearly in match with how the beings around her dressed; not distinctly poor, but very noticeably not high class. Everything from the aesthetics to the atmosphere to the very drinks served at the bar also helped with her conclusion.

"Why are we here?" Carmari whispered in her ear as the two walked into the Cantina.

Sophy'a sighed, "The best place to find something you want is at somewhere like this."
"But where do we start?" Carmari said, looking around very paranoid.

"Try to act like you belong." She demand him, eyeing him from his head to his toes

At least he looks the part

"and please," she paused, "Don't cause trouble."

Carmari scoffed, "Look around," he said, referencing the crowd with his hand, "I dont think itll be that bad." Carmari then nearly got knocked back by a being who brushed way too closely with his shoulder.

"Hey!" she heard Carmari said, only looking to see a large Ithorian who made a very angry sounding grunted sound from his vocal boxes. He walked closer, looking down to Carmari, who then raised his hands. "Hey," he said, "forget about it." he smiled nervously. The Ithorian grunted and promptly walked towards where the gambling and screaming was taking place.

Sophy'a looked at him, shaking her head. you got lucky.

Carmari seemed to give an awkward smirk and then walked past her. The two took a seat at two available spots at the Bar, Ordering refreshments. The bartender, a Twi'lek, nodded, and starting preparing their drinks, "Sure thing," he paused, "Pantoran." he grunted

Sophy'a's gave off a noticeable display of confused frustration, luckily as the bartender's back was turned. She heard Carmari give away a small but noticeable laugh. Sophy'a shrugged it off and took subtle looks around, looking around at the various beings. On the other side of the bar, beings cheer and cried as a racing match drew to its conclusion.

The drinks were slid in mugs on the wooden countertop, She took a sip of the clear liquid, tasting it, fine, for a fruit drink, decent.

A tap on her shoulder, immediately her senses were activated and instinctively looked behind her. It was a Human male in his early thirties; he had short brown hair and a long scar running down his cheek.

"Excuse me, Miss, I couldn't help but notice from my booth back there," he pointed with his twitching thumb over his shoulder to a small shady booth, where an Ugnaught and a Gran sat, the two giving them a subtle nod. "That you were quite possibly one of the most beautiful Chiss this side of the Black Maw."

Sophy'a's face grew dark. Yep, thats him.

"What do you want?" Carmari cut off the man, a hint of anger in his voice.

"What my friend means to say," Sophy'a said, turning around to the man, "We've been expecting you. What is your name?"

The man chuckled, "Really? Well, You can call me Tomkel. I run a small enterprise and," he pointed back towards the booth again,"by the way you are looking around, something tells me You," he paused, For dramatic effect, naturally, and pointed at her, "Need a special job done."

Sophy'a raised an eyebrow, "And what would that job be?"

Tomkel chuckled, "For the right price, any job could be done." he tossed a coin at the bartender, "come on," he told the two, "we'll talk more in the booth."


Carmari squeezed next to another Ugnaught that was sitting at Tomkel's table. The Ugnaught made a complaining squeal as he was squished between two much larger beings trying to fit into the booth.

I don't like this, He said as he stared at Tomkel, whose eyes were glued on Sophy'a, I don't like this one bit.

"You can take the shade's off." Tomkel said, referring to Sophy'a.

"I had rather keep them on," Sophy'a said sternly.

"Fair enough." the man said raising his hands in defeat.

"Answer me this," She said, "How did you see who I was?"

"Simple really." Tomkel began, "We got a hint that told us Imperial's were taking a visit to the wonderful City of Spires. It is common knowledge that the Empire hires Chiss for some of its more clandestine missions." he leaned in closer, "we had also received word that they were residing in the upper levels, from there, it was simple to place a few of my people around to, keep watch." the two noticed Tomkel nodding. Following the Nod, Carmari saw the Ithorian from earlier nod back.

Why that scum…

"What exactly do you all hope to offer us?" Sophy'a said, wanting to get exactly where Carmari wanted to. To the Point.

"As a matter of fact, My dear." he said, making Carmari's eyebrow twitch, "it is what me and my people could do for you…"

"But first," he said, raising a finger, "I shall like to know your names, business courtesy and all."

Sophy'a thought for a moment, "My core name is Jasmin," Sophy'a lied, putting her hands on the table, "And that is Carmin." Carmari almost betrayed a look of confusion, then quickly hid it.

"All right," Tomkel, "your real names are not important."

I think we pulled it off.

"What is important, however," he continued, "Is what you need ol' Tomkel to do."

Sophy'a looked at him, "Very well, If you're so willing, How about a Holodata net?"

"Oooh," Tomkel looked at her, "That's going to fetch a hefty price. Rare piece of tech that is.

May I ask why you would need sucha device?"
"You may," Sophy'a said calmly, "However, Common business courtesy dictates no question asks," her voice grew harder, "Just that the job is done."

"Ah, I forgot what it was like to work with Imperials." Tomkel joked, one of his crew members chuckled.

"Then you must have also forgotten the pay grade we Imperials offer… should the job be done swiftly. You remember, right?" For a long moment the two stayed silent, looking at each other, but then Tomkel burst out laughing, filling the Cantina with his hearty laughter.

"I already like you, Chiss, Maybe one day-"

"So do you have it or not?" Carmari said, interrupting him again.

With an almost hurt look, Tomkel looked at the Ugnaught, "Piggy, the datapad." the Ugnaught snorted and handed Tomkel a datapad from the pack strapped to his back. Tomkel scrolled for a few moments. "I Can get it." Tomkel said, nodding as he stared at the scrolling datapad screen, "What exactly do you want me to do with it?" Sophy'a looked over to Carmari. He saw her deep red eyes under the glasses she wore to cover them, telling him subtly to answer him.
"Ah," Carmari began, "We need information-"
Tomkel chuckled again, "Why would you need a Holodata net for that?"

"-From the Eternal Empire."

Tomkel's face grew darker, "Ah, Welp…" He looked at his two crewmembers,

Uh oh, Carmari thought, and looked over to see Sophy'a share the same expression.

"It'll cost ya double, and odds are, well, prepare for disappointment. What exactly am I doing?"


"How did you know about Tomkel?" Carmari asked her as they walked through the marketplace. The Atmosphere was pleasant, celebration for Founders day was in full effect.

It was all so grand!

"Intelligence records men like him for use in the field." Sophy'a said, "Especially those who they have done business with."

"So Imperial intelligence follows them around?" Carmari questioned.

"Now if I could confirm it to only you and not the others around us who surely heard our conversation, i would." Sophy'a said.

"Ah." Carmari said, looking behind his shoulder.

"What's the plan now then?" he asked Sophy'a.

"We wait for Tomkel and his crew to contact us for his offer." Sophy'a said, eyeing something in the stand she passed by. She saw Carmari look as well.

Carmari had already lost attention as was looking at a stand selling some other cheap items. Someone approached her to sell some kind of roasted meat. Sophy'a turned him down, and passed by him as he continued to curse in another language at her.

"We goin shopping?" Carmari asked.

"More like killing time." Sophy'a said as a man with balloons passed by, "And celebrating."

The two continued to walk, then Sophy'a noticed something on Carmari's face as he looked around at the mega structures that surrounded them.

"What is it?" Sophy'a asked.

"This city," Carmari said softly, "It reminds me of home…"

"What do you mean?" Sophy'a said.

"The celebration, the spire's, the feeling of hominess…" Carmari trailed off.

"I see." Sophy'a said.

"I have no more family anymore." Carmari said, "Its Loyalty or Death, and now Im being hunted down."

"Why not leave and go back then?" Sophy'a questioned.

Carmari shook his head, "that's not my place anymore. I won't be forgiven."

"I see…" Sophy'a said softly.

Carmari turned to her, his anger lashing out, "How could you?" he said, "The Eternal Empire was my home, and I left it." His face grew sour, "You've always had your Sith Empire."

Sophy'a turned to him now, her face serious. "I lost almost everything on Mordan'Morar."

Carmari stood silent for a moment, the realization hit him hard, "Listen," he began, but he was cut off.

"No you listen; Spys dont have the luxury of having a home, of having friends. One day it's here, another its their, new place, new faces, new goodbye's. Mordan'Moran was a chance. I was foolish to ever believe I could be an exception."

"Oh…." Carmari said, feeling the sting of her words.

"Perhaps my failure was being too attached," she continued, "Then I wouldn't have to deal with the consequences now."

Carmari tried again to open his mouth, but he couldn't, knowing that he could easily be in her shoes, only he hadn't realised it in time.

"There's more than one hurt being in the Galaxy." Sophy'a said, then turned to walk away. Carmari tried to raise his hand to catch her, but he was to slow; his arm responding to slow to his clouded mind.

"Im sorry." was all he could manage to say, his voice quiet and weak.

Sophy'a simply said nothing, turned her head, and walked away, leaving Carmari to stand there.


"Boy you must be the biggest fool this side of the Core!" the hologram said.

"Do you have the Holo datanet?" Carmari demanded, tapping his foot on the ground.

"I might, but one can never leave out cost!" Tomkell said, his voice upbeat and smart.

Carmari turned his head to the left and right, looking around as people passed the alleyway where he was contacting him over a small holocom.

"Tomkel please, I need this." he pleaded, "All you need to do is use the datanet, copy the transmission, and decrypt it using my Key."

"Hey look buddy, you and your friend are asking for hardware that's not exactly just lying around." Tomkel argued, "but perhaps for a little extra…"

"Tomkel, If Sophy'a and I don't get this hardware, we'll end up in Prison or worse," he paused, "possibility giving word to the Republic about your Imperial ties…" Carmari said.

He can't turn back now.

Tomkel paused for a moment, "Sophy'a and you ey…" the hologram said thoughtfully, putting his finger to his mouth.

"Yaknow what Captain," Tomkel said, booming, "I'll give in, hey, even will cut ya a discount! I see this is so obviously important for you!"

"Thanks Tomkel!" Carmari said, elated. "I'll send you the Key in a moment." he began typing and sending the encryption file. "You won't regret this!"

"Oh buddy, you've been a mighty big help to me," the hologram said, "it's the least I can do."


Carmari knocked on the door, holding the datapad behind his back, nearly jumping in excitement.

Sophy'a opened the door, not saying a word. Night was approaching, the room was lit only by a lamp which stood on a small table next to the two couches. Sophy'a had changed to her nightly Imperial garb, having her hair flow onto her shoulders.

"Guess what!" Carmari said. Sophy'a sighed and shook her head as she opened the door, silent as the night. She simply opened the door, refusing to look him in the face, and went back to the couch, where a datapad was set on the small rectangle table.

Is she still mad at me?

Carmari got closer, "Whats that?"

"Arrangements for your transfer back to Zakuul space." Sophy'a said, without looking up, "In an escape pod."

Yea she's still mad.

"Look" Carmari said, "I may have said some things, but-"

"But," Sophy'a interrupted him, "you won't say another thing as I continue the arrangements, then quietly and obediently comply." she looked up to him, "You get to go back home."

Carmari quickly sat on the opposite couch. "Hey, I chose to leave Home to Join you, after all."

"Oh really." Sophy'a said, not taking her eyes of the datapad.

"Really." Carmari said, sternly.

"Look, I know I was shortsighted." Carmari began, his eyes giving her a pleading look. Sophy'a put down her datapad and raised her eyebrows.

She sighed "If you came here to grovel, I am not interested." she said quietly, shaking her head. She stood up and began walking to her room.

"I know," he hastily said, lifting his hand to block her, "I just wanted to say," a pause, "Im sorry."

Sophy'a stopped, "Words are one thing, Actions are another." she took a look at him, "And we still don't have the information we need for the chancellor." she said, sighing. "A deal like this with the Republic is invaluable, but without any bargaining chip, it will be a nightmare to sort everything out."

"That's what I wanted to show you!" Carmari stammered.

Sophy'a raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean? Tomkel did not notify me of any offer."

"That's because," Carmari said, lifted the datapad to her. "I already got what we need."

Sophy'a hesitantly took the datapad and sat beside Him. Her eyes slowly began to widen.

"This is the Eternal Empire's records for Force Users!" Sophy'a said gleefully.

"We got our bargaining chip." Carmari said confidently in the dim room.

Sophy'a's eyebrows narrowed, "These are for Jedi...And Sith?"

Carmari shrugged, "Its possible."

Hopefully Carmari though.

Sophy'a scrolled up, and entered in a keyword name for the datapad to search for. After a moment, she set the datapad down on her lap and sighed. Carmari leaned over to see the results.

:/Results = Negative; Keyword; Imperious= Not found;/

A frown grew on Sophy'a's face as she stared down at her datapad. Fireworks began to boom outside, the Night in the City being illuminated by vibrant colours while the Jedi temple was in full view from their window. Carmari looked to the window, then to Sophy'a, who was also starring at the window as the fireworks began. Carmari wasn't sure, but as the bright flashes lit the dim room, he could see something gleaming down Sophy'a's cheek. He reached over to her hand and gently squeezed it. She didn't argue, she slowly moved her other hand to wipe her cheek.

"Dont worry." he said as the two sat there, watching the fireworks.

"We'll find your friend."

"One day"


"Yes sir, Sophy'a. That was her name." The figure in the hologram nodded.

"I must admit," the figure said, "It's a wonder a lowly Slicer managed to obtain that information."

"Nothing a little search couldn't handle and loose lips couldn't handle." Tomkel said confidently.

"May I ask how you learned it?" the Inspector said.

Tomkel laughed, "Now if i told you that, you wouldn't have need for me. Trust me buddy, this information is reliable."

The Inspector nodded, "Indeed, your reputation precedes you." he paused, "Funds are currently being transferred to your account, and I'm ordering a wipe on any Criminal charges we hold against you."

Tomkel smiled a toothy grin, "Nice doin business with ya Inspector!"


"I See." Chancellor Malcomic said, stroking his grey beard.

Sophy'a instinctively started preparing for a sorrowful rejection.

"This is quite the catch the Empire stumbled upon." he said.

Phew.

Carmari paced the room behind Sophy'a, "that's right, Mr Chancellor, You'll be able to get your Jedi back."

"Just because we know where they are," The Chancellor said, looking up, "doesn't mean we can bring them back." He set the datapad on the table. "Nonetheless, It will improve the senate's view on the Empire significantly, enough to improve relations including…" he cleared his throat, "More Clandestine trade deals."

He looked to Sophy'a, "I Must say Cipher, well done, perhaps the Republic will repay you of this kind favour."

"Any help is welcome Chancellor." Sophy'a answered, her voice cool.

The Chancellor chuckled, "Off Record," he looked from side to side, "The Enemy of my Enemy is my friend."

Interesting...His voice shows no sign of deception. His intentions seem to be pure.

"In any case," he concluded, "I Believe our business between us is concluded" He motioned his hand to the door. "You are free to depart whenever Coruscant Control gives you clearance." He extended his hand, "I look forward to see additional support later between our two Governments."
Sophy'a lifted herself from the chair. She approached the Chancellor's desk, and grabbed the hand, which she shook. "It was a pleasure, Chancellor." she said, staring into his eyes. She let go, and Carmari followed suit, nodding as he shook his hand.

"Safe travels." The chancellor bid them, "And May the Force be with you." and the two walked out of the office.


Carmari leaned back in the chair, staring directly into another hyperspace tunnel. He snuck a look at Sophy'a, who was messing around with switches and buttons, typing things in the console in front of her. He sighed a deep sigh.

"Glad to be away from there?" Sophy'a asked, still concentrating on the controls of her ship.

"Just happy to get some time off." Carmari said, shaking his head slightly.

Sophy'a nodded, "Yes, It was a nice bit of time off." she pulled another few switches, "worked out for the Empire quite well."

"Could I ask you something?" Carmari said, his mood growing more serious.

"What would you like to know?" Sophy'a answered, her mood matching Carmari's

"Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why the Empire?" Carmari asked.

A pause, "The Empire is the galaxy's best chance for survival."

"What keeps you so loyal?" Carmari asked.

"Funny you mention loyalty." Sophy'a retorted.

Carmari was stricken back, feeling a little hurt.

Sophy'a seemed to notice this, "Id rather not talk about it."

Carmari nodded, still feeling hurt. Another long moment of silence passed.

"Curious." Sophy'a said suddenly, breaking the silence.

What does that mean?
"What?" Carmari said, confused

"You mentioned the phrase Loyalty or Death on Coruscant." she clarified.

Carmari tilted his head, "yea why?"

"Isint it obvious?" She said.

Carmari shook his head.

"Loyalty to what?"

Carmari was stuck back by a moment by the question, finally, he answered, "the Immortal Emperor."

"Interesting." Sophy'a said.

"What does that have to do with it?" Carmari asked.

Sophy'a answered, "You seem to be abiding by your creed quite well, just in a different light." she paused, "Instead, you come and join the Sith Empire, and remain loyal to that by choice."

Carmari nodded.

"My situation is…" she lingered on that thought, "Similar. Only with me, its more rather a chance to preserve a family," she paused, "and a chance for revenge."

Carmari thought for a moment, then let out a smile, "Are you always this introspective?"

Sophy'a had to let out a small laugh, letting her mood lighten, "Only occasionally." shaking her head.

Carmari raised his hands, "I dunno," he said, "Your pretty silent most of the time."

She smirked, "Yes, because I am, trying to make sure you," pointing at him, "don't accidentally get us killed."

Carmari scoffed, "That's ridiculous,"

Sophy'a raised her eyebrow in response.

"If anyone is a danger here," Carmari retorted, "Its you."

Sophy'a faked a gasp, "Me? Why ever so?"

"Maybe because you are the one who arranges these plans in the first place." Carmari said.

"Perhaps." Sophy'a said, her voice trailing off, "I Normally have it all under control."

"Hey," Carmari said "If it wasn't for me, We would still be there."

"I would have handled it," Sophy'a argued, "eventually."

"Right, and how would you do that?" Carmari asked, his disbelief growing more and more.

Sophy'a turned to him, a lighthearted smiled formed, "by leaving you on the ship next time."

Carmari and Sophy'a both laughed at that. A button buzzed on the console.

"Strap in," she said after the two finished the laugh, "We're about to exit hyperspace."

Carmari strapped himself into the copilot seat. Sophy'a pulled a lever, and within moments, the ship exited hyperspace and in the viewport appeared the many triangular shaped dreadnaughts and capital ships of the Imperial fleet


The two were summoned to the throne room as soon as they boarded the Ship. Sophy'a walked briskly down the marble hallway, passing by her room, and approached the grand doors of the Empress's throne room aboard the Majesty of Flame. The Guards simply nodded at her, though, with a spark of angist in their eyes. But as Carmari approached, the guards raised their weapons, causing Carmari to back instinctively in surprise.

"You are not authorised." the guard said.

"He's with me." Sophy'a said to them, but the guards only repeated their phrase,

"You are not authorised."

Sophy'a sighed, Figures as much.

"Wait here." she said to him. He gave her a quick nod in response, and walked a little further away from the group of guards that stood in front of the door.

The doors were open and Sophy'a walked in. Icarus was sitting on her throne, pondering at a map infront of her.

"Welcome, Cipher Nine." she said, still staring at the map.

"You highness." still not enjoying those words coming out of her mouth. She bowed slightly,

It would only be worth it to appease Icarus's ego.

"The Pleasantries can wait." she told her, causing Sophy'a to raise an eyebrow in response.

"I have news that cannot wait." she stood up from her throne, her clothing trailing behind her as she walked towards Sophy'a.

"Look at this." a quick breeze past her and a small holocommunicator floated between them. It was activated to reveal a face, a familiar face, with white hair, mustache, and matching beard. His uniform was white and gold with hints of green.

Inspector Corvin Sophy'a realised, her eyes gaping wide as she looked at the hologram.

"Greetings, Those among the Sith Empire." the hologram begun, the face showing no sign of emotion.

Just like on Vespin. She noticed, beginning to feel a little angst herself.

"These charades have gone long enough." he continued, "These skirmishes cannot continue. The Eternal Empire nor the Sith Empire has the resources to spare for such an event." The message was short, but the next thing he said nearly made Sophy'a's mouth drop.

"Therefore, let us meet, and discuss terms of ceasefire."


End of Chapter 7