Shaak and Maris – A Star Wars Story: Chapter 9 – New Acquaintances
Some crossover from my friend's tale Way of a Siluan (heatherxenia) in this installment. Shaak reaches out in multiple directions. Thanks to followers: Death to Sasuke, MajorKO
Chapter 9: New Acquaintances
Lianna, the Santhé Tower, Allied Tion Sector, NE Outer Rim, 14 BBY, 0 months, 21 days
Santhé-Sienar Corporation chairman Valles Santhé was waiting in her expansive office atop the 215 story Santhé Tower in the capital city of the planet Lianna. At this hour, the Imperial Minister of Agriculture, Miss Ry Kyver, was scheduled. Valles was looking to get some insight on the most efficient farming techniques available now for her home planet, and she'd heard the minister had some innovative ideas and techniques.
By this point in her career, Valles had more or less consolidated her control over the Santhé-Sienar Corporation and it was the most valuable firm on Lianna, the "crown jewel" of the Eastern Outer Rim. But this was hardly enough for the 24-year-old wunderkind. She had designs on making Lianna even more prominent in the Imperial system, and to do this, it was necessary to be more than a leading industrial firm and weapons maker, she wanted the planet to become a leader in food production.
Over 30 years prior, the planet had undergone a major transformation, one that would invert the normal environment of most terrestrial-style planets. The plan was to move all of the surface water underground, where its purity could be maintained and the climate thus completely directed. The light and warmth from the star Kyall could then be used to its maximum effect. All surface waste products were recycled in various ways, thus yielding a quality of life unequaled almost anywhere. Most of the industry was done in the orbital space surrounding the planet, where many stations of various sizes carried on the work. Valles's shrewd investment strategies paid off on a daily basis as her personal wealth had swelled to the hundreds of billions of Imperial credits, much of which was plowed right back into the various businesses that she had now assumed a majority position in.
As Lady Santhé considered her next moves and what she wanted to cover with the minister, the intercom on her desk sounded, indicating her guest had arrived. For the occasion, Valles had on a vibrant blue dress that reflected the light in the room in various directions when she moved or even gestured. She had understood from an early age that most people were dominated by the visual and the first impression she made in this area always set the tone, particularly with males of various species, but other women were often moved by her appearance as well. Minister Kyver came into the room, and Valles stepped to the door to greet her.
"Welcome to Lianna, Madam Minister. I've heard such great things about the work you are doing."
"Thank you, Lady Santhé. I am most impressed with this beautiful planet of yours. Its reputation continues to grow around the Galaxy."
Valles gestured toward a comfortable seating area in a corner of her massive office, one that afforded a view from two directions that took in an impressive sweep of Lianna City, a most modern metropolis of over 50 million sentients, one that featured much green space and flowing streams. The Santhé Tower was the city's most prominent structure, but such skyscrapers were spread across the city in a pattern that allowed for many unobstructed views. As Ry looked out the windows she whistled softly. This isn't a bad place to retire but it must be expensive to live here.
She sat and gazed across to the lovely Lady Santhé and felt somewhat attracted to her elegance and poise. Hard to believe this woman is only 24 years of age. She has a natural sense of being in charge.
"Well, madam, what may I do for you?"
"Minister Kyver – may I address you as Ry? – I am most interested in greatly expanding the agricultural output of this planet. We amply feed our stable population and are looking to become the "breadbasket" – so to speak – of the entire eastern Outer Rim."
Ry smiled. "Please call me Ry. May I call you Valles?"
Valles nodded with a broad smile. "Please do."
"Valles, I can certainly help you with that. The basis of the Imperial Agriculture Program is to standardize production with an eye toward efficiency. We believe no hectare should be wasted, as the population of the Galaxy is ever growing and should be served."
Valles – who, unknown to all but a few close confidants – was Force-sensitive and was also quite able to conceal it, knowing how critical this was in the current era of Palpatine, but she carefully probed and noted that Ry was as well, and filed this bit of information away for another time.
"Ry, I'm pleased that we are on the same page, if you will. We feel we have some natural advantages over our competitors in that our recycling program affords ready access to most nitrogen-based fertilizer products. What my people are telling me is that an ability to groom various crops to suit the tastes of various species around the Galaxy would be most advantageous. I'm hoping the IMAg has some ideas on how we might be able to do that."
"Valles, I would be delighted for the Ministry to work with your people in this area. This kind of forward thinking is just what the Empire needs."
The two women continued to converse, growing more comfortable with each other in the process, while Valles was using her keen social intelligence to put Ry at ease. She even agreed to accompany Lady Santhé to lunch in the executive dining room elsewhere near the top of the Tower. After they were through, they said goodbye and wished each other well. Valles had also proposed another meeting some two months later, so she could review what the IMAg people had come up with. Ry assured her the meeting would take place and that she was greatly looking forward to it.
As Valles watched her guest leave, she had some poignant thoughts. I like that woman, she cuts to the chase. Many weapons I will need in my arsenal for the years to come. Somehow, I don't believe Palpatine will always be around. But so long as he clears the field of anyone that might get in my way, the longer he stays, the better, for the time being.
Felucia, 13 BBY 11 months, 10 days
One morning, Shaak was busy seeing to various aspects of her starship Intrepid II and she was accompanied by young Xendar Silkaw, who had by this time been with Shaak and Maris for about six months and was about to celebrate his 13th birthday. The youth was fascinated by starships and space travel and was constantly hanging around the Master, who relented and agreed to teach him the basics of mechanics and ship maintenance. On this day, she was covering some of the finer points in working on a hyperdrive system.
"One of the things many shipowners tend to neglect is proper maintenance of this system, and then they later wonder why they have to shell out thousands of credits to get it repaired," she lectured. "Spend some time learning about the various parts and you won't have to do that."
"Master Shaak, I often wondered. How much coaxium is needed to keep it running at top speed?"
"Not as much as people seem to think. It's really not at all like speeder gas. The right concentration – used sparingly – can deliver many fast voyages. Recently, I made some upgrades once I had a new source of coax. I was able to raise the capacity of the ship to class 1.0 from 1.5 …"
Xendar seemed duly impressed. "That's amazing, Master. I doubt many astro-mechanics can do that. Did you learn that kind of stuff in the Jedi Order?"
Shaak nodded, then chuckled. "And a great deal more. I like you, kid. You ask smart questions."
He smiled, happy to be making a good impression on her.
"Are you planning a voyage soon?"
Shaak laughed softly. "As a matter of fact, I am. We're going to take a little trip in the neighborhood. Over to a planet called Nechako. Maris has already been there, about a year ago. We're leaving tomorrow morning."
Nechako, Ash Worlds Sector, Eastern Outer Rim, 13 BBY 11 months, 8 days
Shaak and Xendar were going over the pre-flight checklist together as Maris joined them on the Intrepid. The Zabrak smiled at the young man as she came onto the flight deck.
"Ready, Xen?"
He gave her the thumbs up and took the seat behind Shaak, while Maris settled into the right seat in front. The engines started up and the ship briefly shook as Shaak eased the power level up.
"Let's go!" She shouted and the ship shot into the Felucian atmosphere as the occupants could quickly see the planet shrinking beneath them. Soon, the coordinates had been entered and the jump was made. Xendar was thrilled to watch it and he had a great view while the stars momentarily turned to bright lines and then everything went into a blur.
About 90 minutes later, the lines returned and then became stars as they had reached their destination. The planet was a grayish expanse, and Xendar remarked that it reminded him of his home on Asrat. Shaak was paying close attention, and noted, "I think Asrat is more mountainous. This one has a prairie look, and not much obvious water. Life is likely difficult here."
Maris added. "I thought it was cold. Looks like it's even worse today. Glad we've got some heavier clothes."
Shaak paid no attention to that as she was intently studying the readouts from her computer. She'd done some special programming that tied into her keen Force sensitivity and she was eying it as the ship took a couple of orbits. Finally, she'd pinpointed the location and then put the ship on manual override and took it down to the surface. A large expanse of plains was visible, with hills rising slowly in the distance while a couple of rivers could be seen below, winding their way across the prairie.
Shaak chose a nice, flat landing spot near one of the rivers and the ship touched down as the gear came out. She turned to them and announced:
"I'm going to go ahead from here. I want you two to stay here and watch everything carefully. My com will be open, so give me silent alerts if anything comes up. Do not draw lightsabres unless absolutely necessary. Our presence here is purely exploratory in nature and we are not to draw undue attention to ourselves."
"Who are you meeting with, Master?" Maris asked, as she looked Shaak in the eye. "This Varda person?"
"That's right. I think she will remember me."
"How did you know she would be on this world?"
"Maris, it was because of that fellow you met here last time, the one named Devin Baxter. Varda Wahi was known as a Jedi that was keenly interested in agriculture and horticulture. I studied under her when I was a Padawan, many years ago. It enabled me to learn much of what I know involving plants and herbs. So, when you mentioned that there was a Force-sensitive here, I looked him up on one of the holocrons. His name wasn't Baxter in the Jedi but I figured it was the same person."
Shaak then took out a speeder bike from the ship's cargo hold and set out to locate Varda. It didn't take long to find her Force signature and she wasted no time in arriving at a small, non-descript residence on the prairie. Not wanting to startle her, Shaak reached out with the Force and announced her presence, then was at the door, which soon slid open as the two women stood, quietly regarding each other.
"Hello, Master Ti. Yes. You've found me." Varda seemed somewhat frail and more than a bit worse for wear.
Shaak tilted her head at a slight angle, then spoke.
"It's good to see you, Knight Varda. It's been a while."
"Where are my manners?" Varda said quickly. "Please, come in. I've been preparing something for supper. Would you like to join me?"
Shaak followed her into the kitchen. It being winter on Nechako, the Togruta was clothed in layered gowns under a heavy black velvet robe, which concealed her lightsabre. Varda, dressed modestly in a long, thick gown of sorts, was more than a bit nervous about encountering the woman who was one of the most important Jedi before the Purge. But she was also quite curious to learn more about what had happened – now six years prior.
Sniffing the aroma, Shaak complimented her. "Smells nice. I'll have some, thank you."
Varda grabbed a bowl, then gave her guest a generous portion and handed the bowl to her. Not knowing exactly what Togruta eating habits were, she decided to ask first. "Would you prefer sticks or a fork – or neither one?"
"Neither," Shaak grunted. She took the bowl and proceeded to feed herself with her right hand. Varda could occasionally see the razor-sharp Togruta teeth protruding as Shaak devoured the food. "Please excuse me," Shaak said softly. "I was hungrier than I thought. It's really quite good."
Varda felt relieved that things were going well thus far, while inwardly worrying just how much Shaak might know about her actions during the Clone War, where she had lost her composure and killed two of her own soldiers, then basically deserted and was considered MIA. As Master Ti was known to be a staunch warrior and very loyal to those she commanded, it was likely she resented such actions from a fellow Jedi.
But if Shaak remembered this incident or simply chose to overlook it, she never let on in any way. She simply stood there, clearly reading Varda through the Force and learning who knew what in the process. Varda figured it might be best to sit the woman down and do some catching up. Maybe then Shaak's mood and thoughts would be better known. One thing was for sure, however, the Togruta master was emanating a rather powerful Force signature, one that reflected a deep well of controlled energy, but at the same time, seemed completely tempered and restrained. It was all rather mysterious.
"Come, Master Shaak. Let's set down and talk. I will fill you in on where I've been over the past few years."
"I'd like that."
They proceeded into a formal living room of sorts and Varda wanted her guest to have the most comfortable seat. Shaak then opened the discussion, after waiting a couple of seconds, during which she allowed the tension to build.
"Varda … I remember learning various things from you when I was a youngling and then a Padawan. Some of these I hold onto to this day. The knowledge of plants and vegetation, for example. Quite useful this has been for me. May I say one thing? I am most gratified to have found you. There are only a handful of us that remain now in the Galaxy."
"Thank you, Master Ti," Varda responded, the tone in her voice betraying more than a little relief, but still a bit rushed. "I'm sure you have questions for me, but if I may, I'd like to fill you in on where I've been … these past years."
Shaak nodded in her subconsciously regal manner, saying nothing. She seems rather uneasy; I need to calm her.
Varda proceeded to explain that she'd been shipwrecked during the War and wound up on a planet that was quite difficult to leave and also one to which little news from the outside could penetrate. Therefore, only recently had she learned about the Jedi Purge and the rise of the Galactic Empire of Sheev Palpatine.
As Shaak listened, she had many thoughts. At first, about how difficult it must have been to learn of the current situation in the Galaxy many years after it had happened, but then, she detected the source of Knight Varda's fear. She's ashamed of her actions during the War. At the time, this would not have been acceptable, but so much has happened since. I must reach out to her and bring her back in.
Once Varda had spoken her peace, Shaak stood and came over to her, extending both hands.
"Varda, please give me your hands."
The older woman – now quite perplexed by Shaak and her calm demeanor – thought it over for a second. I cannot quite believe she is so forgiving, after all she was third in command in the Council and I often thought of her as rather strict.
Varda decided to go along with the request, as the Togruta was being quite pleasant.
As Shaak gently took hold of her, a sudden surge of warm Force energy coursed through her, at first a bit startling, then progressively more relaxing. I know what happened, Varda, and you are forgiven. It is not my place to judge such actions when we as an organization failed so completely.
As Shaak released her hands, she then noted, "I can see you are not well. Might I have a look?" Shaak pointed to Varda's ailing hip joint.
Knowing that Togruta were often gifted in the healing arts, Varda felt she had little to lose at this point. Sometimes, the pain was quite unbearable. She gazed at Shaak, wincing somewhat.
"Yes … please ..."
Shaak quickly found the source of the pain. Varda's right hip joint had started to deteriorate with age and the cartilage had worn thin. Shaak placed a hand on the woman's hip and surged more warmth into it. The heat greatly alleviated the pain as Shaak continued to examine her.
"Varda, you have severe damage to this joint. As one Jedi to another, I would like to bring you to my new home – not far from this world – and see what can be done. I have a great many herbal medicines I have created there and I feel that one of them might be perfect to help you regenerate some tissue and get the healing process started."
Varda was somewhat stunned. "You would do this ... for me?"
Shaak simply nodded and smiled. "It's the least I can do, for one who is a living treasure – as are all Force sensitive people who remain in the Galaxy. We must take care of each other."
Varda sat back in her chair and simply stared at Shaak. This wasn't at all what she'd expected.
Shaak then went into detail about the day of the Purge and Order 66, then about her efforts to start over, and the decision to build a brand-new Order of Force adept people that would replace the Jedi. She also mentioned some of the survivors, such as Yoda, Obi-Wan, and Jocasta, but gave no details on their whereabouts. Finally, she spoke about Anakin Skywalker's transformation into Darth Vader and the clear and present danger he represented to all surviving ex-Jedi.
Varda then told Shaak about Devin Baxter and the situation on Nechako, which was in danger of Imperial actions that would devastate the planet. Shaak then mentioned Bail Organa and the fledgling rebellion against the Empire, but also that it was extremely privileged information.
As they sat and talked some more, Varda offered Shaak some hot tea, which the Togruta happily accepted.
"You seem to know my tastes quite well," Shaak chuckled.
Varda grinned, now greatly relieved. "Coming right up."
While Varda went into her kitchen, Shaak pulled her com device out of her robe and tapped out a message to Maris.
Come join us and bring the boy. I want her to meet you both. Shaak then quietly put away the device as Varda returned.
As Shaak took a sip of the tea, Varda offered what she knew about the rebellion.
"I've also met with Senator Organa, and I understand the need for strict secrecy. I also met another of your cohorts, a Togruta named Ahsoka Tano."
At the mention of the name, Shaak's eyes narrowed and her front lekku changed shades ever so slightly, Varda quickly detected this, and asked, "are you quite close with Miss Tano? If you don't mind my asking …"
Shaak seemed to cough for a second and cleared her throat. "Uh, yes. In a manner of speaking. Let's just say I take an inordinate interest in matters pertaining to her."
Shaak took another sip, then glanced directly at Varda. "Could you tell me what your impression of her was? How did she seem …" the Togruta's voice trailed off for a second. Her mind appeared to be somewhere else for a second.
To Varda, this seemed somewhat mysterious. She decided to be as open as she could about Ahsoka.
"Master Shaak, I was very impressed with her. What I had known about her in the past was less than flattering. During the War, she and Anakin Skywalker were paired together and it was said around the Temple that she picked up a number of his bad habits. She was rash and quite headstrong, although everyone said she was absolutely gifted and would be a fine Knight someday."
Shaak simply looked at Varda and nodded. "I thought so, as well. Indeed, I had hoped she would become my Padawan. Those … habits … could have been corrected, had they been caught earlier. But, Varda, how about now? What has Ahsoka become?"
"Shaak, she's quite different now. Very mature. Measures her words carefully. And I noticed something else. Padawan Offee is now around as well, and they seemed to be close acquaintances, if not friends."
Shaak chuckled at that mention. "Barriss Offee actually made it through the trials and became a Knight while you were away. We all thought Ahsoka was well on her way to doing that as well. Master Windu and I felt that she had earned first consideration and that her dogged determination to prove her innocence showed she had some of what it took to be a Knight. But Barriss was the one had betrayed her, and when we went along with the accusations of Ahsoka's guilt and removed her from the Order, I had deep misgivings. However, I kept those to myself. To this day, I remain ashamed of my role in the matter. When she was cleared, we extended our condolences and invited her back into the Order – but she turned us down and walked away. Can you imagine my joy to learn that she also survived the Purge?"
As she unloaded all of it, Shaak's voice went from her normal flat monotone into something approaching a plead.
Varda looked at Shaak with some sympathy. "Yes, exactly. I now understand. Thank you for explaining all of that and how painful it was for you."
"But Varda … I would be most grateful at this time if you did not inform Ahsoka that I am also still alive."
"I don't understand, Shaak. Why wouldn't you want her to know?"
Shaak was becoming a bit rattled by the whole thing and simply stammered, "I have my reasons …"
At this point, Maris and Xendar arrived on the other speeder bike, and Shaak, relieved by the interruption, glanced toward the door. Varda also realized Shaak was reluctant to explain and she didn't want to further rock the boat, as she had been making such progress in dealing with her up to this point.
Both women rose and went to the door, which Varda opened with the Force. Shaak then stepped forward.
"Knight Varda, it is my pleasure to present my apprentice, Padawan Maris Brood, and also our new acolyte, Xendar Silkaw."
Both Maris and Xendar bowed to her, and she invited them inside. Shaak then spoke.
"Varda, I wanted you to meet my people, now that we are going to take you to our home planet so as to heal your injury. I further want to explain that it is my great desire now to build a new Order of Force-sensitive people in the Galaxy and a fond hope that it will someday be an organization that stands for truth and justice – things we are now sorely lacking in the Empire of today."
"I am very pleased to meet both of you," Varda stated.
Shaak went on to explain a bit about both of their backgrounds, then turned to Varda.
"Are you ready? I don't think you'd want to wait on this."
Varda nodded, then Shaak whispered to Maris about what was happening.
Maris then turned to Varda, and looked her in the eye.
"Master Shaak is the best. She will take care of you."
Felucia, 13 BBY, 11 months, 5 days
Intrepid II had just touched down on Felucia, as Shaak returned with her acolytes and former Jedi Varda Wahi. As she debarked from Shaak's ship and looked around, Varda noted, "A very peaceful surrounding you have, Master Ti. But it is rather warm here."
Shaak chuckled softly. "Yes, but we've grown accustomed to it. The heat should help with your healing process. You know, Varda, I did some quick checking. There is a holocron I've been updating with more background on our flora here on Felucia. Into it, I've entered all of the native plant species I've found here and then analyzed them at the molecular level. For your situation, I have already picked out the combination I will need."
Varda looked at Shaak with a feeling of wonderment coupled with relief. "And to think you were once my student. I feel a small measure of pride knowing that."
Shaak smiled. "Yes, I owe much of it to you. You were the one that got me interested in the biology and structure of the plant world. So many think of me as a strict military mind, and, while I will always honor those whom I fought alongside, I am also aware that not all of us were prepared to do that."
She then followed Shaak into her small home, limping noticeably. Shaak turned to her. "We will get you set up here for the healing process. It would be best for you to sleep on the ship for a couple of nights as the medicine starts working, but I am going to administer the treatment here. I will also use some techniques I've perfected via the Force."
Varda nodded. "I'm going to put myself under your trust, Shaak. But, I must say, I am rather impressed with your progress since you were my student. I think you may have taken it to a new level."
Shaak laughed. "Well, let's see about that."
Maris and Xendar left them so Shaak could concentrate on her patient. Varda was asked to lie on something like an army cot and Shaak proceeded to massage some strange-smelling ointment into her hip, then placed a hand on her and surged some warmth into the area. Varda relaxed and Shaak had her drink about 10cc of a concentrated herbal remedy that was a deep greenish color. More Force energy and then Shaak had Varda rise up and sit on the edge of the cot.
"How do you feel now, Knight Varda?"
"Certainly better … but have you just removed the pain?"
"Partially. That's because you need to have full range of movement. You are going to need to strengthen the muscles in this area – on both sides of your body – to take some of the pressure off the joint."
Varda nodded. "I understand what you are saying, Shaak. I've let myself become weak in key areas."
"Yes. But it's not too late. If you follow my program, you will see results in the next 90 days or so. I'm going to have a special walking aid for you to use as you get stronger."
"Will my joint start to repair itself?"
"That's the plan. Now I want to get you off of it so you may heal."
Shaak then levitated Varda off the cot via the Force and slowly transferred her to a stateroom on board the Intrepid. Varda slept for a few hours, aided by a strong tea that Shaak served her. When she awoke, Xendar was looking after her. He kept his silence, but then Varda spoke to him.
"Young man, if you don't mind my asking, are you in training with Master Ti?"
"Yes, I am, Knight Varda. It's been great."
Varda smiled. "Do you think she wants to rebuild the Jedi?"
"With all due respect, madam, I'm not sure she wants me to talk about that."
Varda nodded. "Oh, that's fine. I can see already that you are honoring her wishes. But let me tell you something about your master – she is one of the toughest warriors you could ever find, but she is also one of the most compassionate and kind-hearted people. I'm learning that about her now. She inspires great loyalty, I can see that with Padawan Brood, as well."
"Did you know Master Shaak from before?"
"Yes, she was once a student of mine, long ago, when she was about your age, I'd guess. How old are you, Xendar?"
"I will be 13 years soon."
The two talked for a while longer, then Shaak came onboard the ship and entered the room.
"And how are we feeling this morning, Madam Knight?"
"I slept well, Master Ti, but I'm a little groggy."
"That is to be expected."
Shaak then put a hand on the affected area and carefully scanned.
"Is it working, Shaak?"
The Togruta stayed silent for a few seconds, then responded.
"I'm seeing some early evidence that your body is receptive to the treatment. Tissue regeneration should start to take place over the next 12 hours."
"So I should just rest?"
"You can read and study a little. If you like, I can lend you the holocron that contains information on the environment here. Have you ever been to Felucia before?"
"I have not … reminds me a little of Dagobah, however."
Shaak chuckled at that. "I've recently been there, I see what you mean."
Varda reached out and took Shaak's hand. A silent exchange of Force energy took place between them, this time the elder woman initiated it. It was a simple expression of gratitude. Shaak simply nodded in response.
"I will return later."
After two days had passed on Felucia, Varda was feeling considerably better. Shaak encouraged her to rise from her bed and to test the joint. She had been given more pain-numbing substances and ointment treatments and now it was time for her to try walking. Shaak had fashioned a sort of cane, made from Wroshyr wood from the planet Kashyyyk and Varda was impressed at how light, yet strong, the instrument was. Her first steps were understandably tentative but she felt somewhat relieved when she found herself walking with relatively low pain.
"Make sure you use the cane until you gain more strength. The rebuilding of your hip will take time, as it's a major joint in your body."
"Shaak, will I become like I once was?"
"In time, perhaps. But I want you to concentrate on the exercises I showed you. Very important to strengthen your core areas. As you age even further, this will serve you well. I can't tell you how many humans of your age I see in such pain. They are often confined to repulsor chairs for the rest of their lives."
"But not Togruta?"
"We are more in tune with our native land, where the soil and its nurturing ability can replenish us. We often live to 150 standard years and some have even made it to their 200th annual cycle."
"I never really knew that much about your species … that's quite remarkable."
"Someday, maybe you will take a voyage to Shili and see how we live."
"I think I'd like that very much. Shaak, I just want to thank you again for all you've done to help me. We hardly knew each other, but I almost feel like a member of your family …"
Shaak smiled, and reached out to caress Varda on her upper left arm. "All those who live in the Light of the Force … I see as sisters and brothers to me and those who are joining my new order. We extend our hands in welcome – should you so decide."
The two embraced briefly, then Varda asked, "When can I return to Nechako?"
"Soon, my friend. I know you have business to attend to back there."
Nechako, 13 BBY, 10 months, 20 days
Maris was in the pilot's chair as her shuttle craft, Forager, dropped from hyperspace and proceeded to orbit Nechako. With her, in the right seat, was Varda, returning after about 17 days' recovery from Shaak's treatment of her damaged hip joint. The elder ex-Jedi was making progress – the best that could be expected considering her advanced age – and was walking more naturally than she had in a long time. The special cane that Shaak had made for her had become something of a trusted friend.
"How are you feeling, Madam Varda?" Maris asked politely.
"Better, Miss Maris. And I owe it all to your amazing master …"
Maris nodded. "I knew she could help you … well, we're now back to Nechako, would you like me to drop you near your home?"
"That will be fine, thank you."
As Maris brought the ship down, she had another question.
"You know, a little over a year ago, I first came to Nechako. I happened to meet a man who was Force-sensitive, named Devin Baxter. Might you know him?"
"As a matter of fact, I do," Varda chuckled. "How exactly did you meet him?"
The Zabrak laughed. "Master Shaak wanted me to scout the planet. She said Bail Organa told her she might find what she was looking for there."
"Oh, really?" Varda mumbled, as she had also been seeing Senator Organa in recent months. Unknown to both Shaak and Maris at this time, Varda was also aiding the rebellion. She thought about telling Maris as a gesture of good will.
"Maris, what was she looking for?"
"Other Force-sensitive people – who might be interested in joining our new order. Do you think Devin might be one?"
Varda shook her head slowly. "I don't want to speak for him, but he has a family and must look after them at this point."
Maris nodded, and soon the Forager was on the ground. She helped Varda to her feet and led them off the ship and down the ramp to the ground.
"Still rather cold here," Maris noted. "I seem to be a bit under-dressed." The Zabrak laughed at the irony of it all.
Varda laughed as well. "Let's go inside, and I can make you something hot to eat. Thank you so much for bringing me home."
The two went inside and Varda showed her guest to the same comfortable chair Shaak had used earlier. A few minutes later, she served Maris a hearty stew that was somewhat spicy.
"Anything to drink?" she asked.
"Ale, if you've got any."
Varda chuckled again. "Sorry. Fresh out …"
"OK, cold water, then."
After Varda brought it, Maris devoured the stew and gulped the water. Varda watched her with something approaching affection.
"If only every cook had such an appreciative guest …"
"Oh, yes, Madam Varda. The food on this planet is good. Leave it to a farming community to make tasty dishes. I had a great meal at the local co-op bar when I came here before."
As they were chatting, a knock came on the door. Varda rose and slid the door open with the Force. It was Devin Baxter, who seemed relieved to see her.
"Come in, Devin, please. I have a guest – someone you may remember."
His jaw dropped when he saw Maris sitting there. She was on her feet immediately.
"Devin!"
"Maris? I was beginning to wonder if I'd ever see you again."
The Zabrak smiled and extended her hand to him. He took it and they embraced for a second. Lost in the excitement he felt for seeing her again was his wonder at how she knew Varda. Maris decided to fill him in.
"I was bringing Madam Varda back to her home. My master had been here a couple of weeks ago and she noticed Varda was in pain from a hip injury. We took her back to our home planet and helped her to heal."
Varda laughed and nodded to Devin. "Yes, it's all true. I'm getting on in years and this thing was really starting to bother me. Shaak saw that and decided to help me."
Devin smiled but then had a flash of insight.
"Shaak? Are you referring to Master Shaak Ti?" As Varda nodded, he added, "She's only one of the greatest Jedi … and she's alive?"
Maris felt a little nervous at this point, not sure what Shaak might think about this. She spoke up.
"Yes, Devin. She's my master now. I'm Padawan Maris Brood, a former Jedi like yourself. Master Shaak has told me about you."
Devin shook his head for second, trying to take it all in. Finally, he stammered out a response.
"You know … Maris … for a little while, I was afraid you might be with the Empire and was wondering if you might report me to them. But then, after nothing happened for a year, I figured I was safe. Now, to hear this news … I can only say, this is great. I knew about Shaak Ti. She was something special. And she's healed Varda? She's even more special than I realized."
Maris smiled as she nodded vigorously. "Devin, we'd love to help you and your community in whatever way we can. We are part of the rebellion against the Empire – but we must be very careful. If word got out, you would be in grave danger."
He nodded a few times in response. "Something about you told me you were one of the good guys. I just wasn't sure. I hope you understand."
"I felt the same when I met you. Shaak told me you were okay … so, Devin, what would you think about possibly joining us?"
Devin had to shake his head. "I'm sorry … and I'd like to help, believe me I would. The Empire is pure evil. But I have to think of my wife and kids. They didn't sign up for this."
Maris nodded back. "I understand. Look – I don't know where this is going, either. But I'm training hard now and I feel we will win someday."
She stopped for a second and drank from her water glass. "I need you to promise me one thing. You cannot, under any circumstances, tell others here about us and what we are doing. We cannot even reveal where we are staying."
She turned to Varda. "Right, Madam Varda?"
Varda then spoke up. "Absolutely. Shaak has become a most trusted friend. I won't do anything to betray her in any way. And I know Devin can be trusted too …" She gazed at him and he nodded.
"Of course. I admire the rebellion. I'd heard whispers that something like that was going on, but I cannot say anything."
Maris smiled. "I'll just have to take your word for it, Devin." She then extended a hand and they had a brief energy exchange. "I'm glad we had this talk."
With that, Maris started for the door. She turned and gave Varda a hug.
"Master Shaak will be glad to know you made it home safely. Devin, it was good to see you again."
The Zabrak then strode out of Varda's home and soon was aboard the Forager. She wasted little time and soon the ship had lifted off. Varda and Devin had come outside and were able to catch a glimpse as they saw the ship make the jump to hyperspace.
Dantooine, 13 BBY, 10 months, 2 days
After Varda was on the mend, about a month later, Shaak decided to pay her first visit to Dantooine, along with Xendar. She still wanted to avoid Ahsoka – for reasons she kept entirely to herself – and, knowing that the other Togruta rebel was elsewhere, along with Barriss (whom she also wanted to avoid at this time), figured it was a good time to catch up with the Rebel leadership.
The Intrepid arrived at the green planet and Shaak took the ship over the terrain, noting the various features, and eventually discovered the base by using the Force to track the vitals of those whom she knew. Noting the location, she then took the ship up a few hundred kilometres and did a more extensive inspection of the planet while her ship's computers were crunching the data. Having satisfied her curiosity, she then swooped low and took the ship into a landing near the discovered base. As Shaak and Xendar exited the Intrepid, she switched on cloaking mode and watched it disappear.
A few seconds later, they entered the portal and descended down into the underground facility. Shaak was carefully studying each aspect of its construction, and giving admiring nods as she went. They've put some thought into this place, as if they plan to be here for a few years at least. The rebellion is proceeding carefully. Very good.
Xendar was also looking things over. The young man asked, "How many people are involved with the rebellion?"
To which, Shaak responded.
"Probably not very many … yet. I have a feeling they are in various places around the Galaxy."
"Do they hate the Empire?"
"Some do, certainly. So much evil has already taken place, so many killed, so many peaceful worlds upended and torn apart, just to find raw materials so they could keep building warships. These are hard times."
Xendar just listened, but was clearly thinking about what had happened to his uncle, somehow killed on some world far away, while in service to the Republic for the Jedi.
"Master – my uncle once said we should try not to hate anyone, he said it would lead to the Dark Side. What is your opinion on that?"
She looked at him and smiled. "This is a difficult subject. Your uncle was certainly correct, but, saying that, and then acting on it, are two very different things. You will come to learn the best way to proceed. Maris and I will try to guide you."
He thought about that for a second. "Master Shaak, is Maris also learning these same things?"
"Yes. They are things we are always learning – through our entire lives. There will be many challenges ahead, ones that you cannot foresee, and you will have decisions to make on how to handle them. My job is to help prepare you – and Maris – along with whoever else may join us in the years ahead, so you will be equipped."
Shaak then added, "Time to go inside. Xendar, this being your first time, I mostly want you to listen and learn. We can go over some of the points later."
"Yes, Master Shaak."
As they proceeded inside, Shaak joined a discussion among Bail Organa, Mon Mothma and Gial Ackbar. Mon turned to her and smiled.
"Shaak! So glad you could make it here today. We would love your input on military matters."
The Togruta master lowered her head slightly, signifying her cooperative intentions in a subtle way.
"I'm happy to oblige. Shall we take this private?"
Organa responded. "I think we're fine." He looked over to Xendar. "Is this a new apprentice of yours, Shaak?"
Shaak chuckled for a second, then her expression drew serious. "Everyone, this is Xendar Silkaw of Asrat. He is our first acolyte to join what I am calling the New Order. We are not a replacement for the Jedi, but we plan to honor many of that organization's ideals and principles. Xendar, here, is the nephew of a one-time Jedi Knight who died in the Purge. His loyalty to the rebellion will be complete."
Xendar then bowed and shook hands with each of the leaders present.
"I will be honored to be part of the struggle."
The group sat down at a conference table, one that had a holo projector installed. A general strategy discussion took place, and the participants were in basic agreement that no open resistance to the Empire was desirable, or even possible. Shaak stated that a marshalling of forces – ships, personnel, weapons – had to take place over the next few years. The most prominent need was good intelligence, mostly about Imperial movements and planning. Of particular importance was evasion of Darth Vader, who had been reported as being the Emperor's chief enforcer. He had a tendency to be utterly ruthless in carrying out the old man's directives and had left a trail of devastation and a high body count, seemingly everywhere he went.
It was generally conceded that the rebels had little idea about some of the Empire's more insidious plans, such as the construction of the Death Star, taking place at that time on and around Geonosis, based on the original design which then Separatist leader and ex-Jedi Master Count Dooku had overseen on that planet. The rebels also had no true conception of just how large the Imperial forces truly were, nor did they know the construction schedule taking place on worlds such as Kuat and Lianna. Palpatine had a maniacal desire to project power on a level that would scare away anyone that would even think of opposing him.
This last point was better understood by the rebel leaders, and Shaak underscored that when she noted, "At this time, I feel it is best to allow them to believe they already have absolute control over the Galaxy, even though we well understand that it is still rather vast, with large unexplored areas. We should be under no misconception about how difficult this will be, but at the same time, allow ourselves to have some hope that we do not labor in vain."
The short meeting broke up with a general sense of unity, as each person put her or his hand into a combined salute and gave a small exhortation … "To liberty – to the Rebellion!"
To be continued …
AUTHOR'S NOTE: the order of scenes was changed here to move the Lianna scene before the Nechako scenes. This was partly done to accommodate events that appear in the affiliated story Way of a Siluan by heatherxenia.