Shaak grows in power and reaches out to Varda, while Valles recruits and grooms Ry.

Chapter 13 – A New Awakening

Lianna, The City, 12 BBY 6 months, 18 days, 10 hours

Santhé-Sienar chairlady Valles Santhé arrived quietly at the Veteran's Hospital on Palmyra Boulevard this particular morning. She had come to look in on her new guest, former Imperial Minister of Agriculture, Ry Kyver. The former minister was a complex person, something Valles was going to learn over the next few weeks and months, but her current aim was to tap the woman's mind.

Upon arriving at Ry's hospital room, Valles was wearing a plain, dark green dress, and her hair was uncharacteristically tied back, with none of her trademark fragrances immediately evident. Even though she was not carrying herself as a corporate bigshot, those in the facility who knew of her identity were quick to grant her access. As she entered the room, Valles spoke to the nurses. She had asked for Ry to be brought to the hospital so as to be thoroughly examined, as she had earlier been kidnapped by the notorious bounty hunter Cad Bane.

"What is her status? Has she been conscious?"

"Yes, Milady. For a few minutes at a time … she's been asking for you."

Valles exhaled slowly. "Very well. Please leave us for a time, I can take it from here."

The nurses curtsied to her, then filed out. Valles then stood at Ry's bedside. The patient looked somewhat pale, but her cheeks were flushed and she was breathing normally. Valles took her right hand and felt the pulse. It seemed a bit quickened, but not overly so. She then snapped her fingers and gave a slight Force stimulation to awaken her. As she came to, Ry Kyver opened her eyes to see Valles standing over her bedside.

"Relax, my friend. You are on Lianna now … and you are in my protective care." She heard Valles say in her crisp and correct Core-world accent. It was not generally known in Liannese social circles that young Valles had been sent to Hapes Cluster for a few months as a 10-year-old, so that she might learn proper diction and polish. Once gaining that, the girl had a new sense of belonging, which often bordered on snobbishness.

Ry slowly shook her head. "Miss Valles … I've been waiting for you. I apologize for my disappearance …"

Valles chuckled slightly. "Not to worry. Sometimes, we are unable to anticipate … circumstances."

"Well, anyway, I am most looking forward to working with you. On this beautiful planet, and for your fine organization."

Valles tried to conceal a smirk, but was only partially successful. She ran a finger gently over the back of Ry's left palm for a couple of seconds, then spoke, in a more businesslike tone.

"Former Minister Kyver. I understand this much – that you are a bright and ambitious individual. But there will always be times when events … fail to break as we might foresee. And we are left at a loss for answers."

While Ry listened patiently, Valles took a full breath cycle, then continued.

"It is my sincere belief that you will find the kind of opportunity you are looking for here … and the commensurate rewards will come … but of course, there are a set of expectations on my part. Ones which I think you will find more than fair."

Ry couldn't help but wonder what all this entailed, and it wasn't long before she noticed that Valles carried with her a definite Force signature – one that was rather intriguing. Best to keep this purely professional. This lady is very shrewd, it's not hard to see.

"Miss Santhé, I wish to convey my sincerity – and appreciation – for the opportunity you are offering me. It is my express desire to pledge my complete loyalty to the Santhé-Sienar organization."

Valles smiled as she carefully looked over her prospective employee. Time will tell how deep that loyalty runs, Miss Kyver. But you have something I need.

Ry relaxed while awaiting Valles's next move, which wasn't long in coming.

"How would you like to get out of here, Ry? I have a little accommodation already picked out for you – one I'm certain you shall find most adequate. But first, another adjustment is needed …"

Ry twisted her head slightly, as if to ask what that might be.

"You're going to get a makeover – of sorts …" As she gauged Ry's reaction, Valles continued. "The thing is, Miss Kyver, there is still a sizable amount on your head at present. Someone doesn't particularly like you … though I can't imagine why …"

Ry was a little nonplussed, but she understood the reasoning. In fact, it didn't strike her as the worst possible circumstance. If I'm going to be on this planet, I can't have people recognizing me. She nodded, while smiling back at Valles.

"I can live with that … in fact, it makes perfect sense, Miss … might I call you Valles?"

"Please do … but of course, you will also have a new alias and a complete backstory … So …" Valles spun around and gazed directly into her eyes. "How are you feeling … can you walk out of here?"

Ry wondered about that herself for a second, but then she felt a lightness arise as the Force assisted her. She pushed back the blanket, pulled her knees up and swiveled to the side of the bed, then rose and stood, somewhat gingerly. Ry took a tentative step, but found it a bit too much and quickly sat on the side of the bed. Valles chuckled, then smiled, extending a hand. Ry grasped it and Valles, showing a bit more strength than would normally be expected from someone as elegant as she, firmly pulled her to her feet.

"Whew," Ry sputtered. "Thanks. I'm good now. So … I'm also excited. I want to show you that your belief in me was correct. I'd love to help you with whatever you need from me. You are right – I can definitely help you."

Valles smiled, laughing softly. "Very good. Do you have any belongings to bring with you?"

"Not much … I was hoping you would help me out on that – considering the makeover you are planning for me."

"Yes. I will provide you with a full business wardrobe, and I would favor a hair shade from reddish to light brown, plus would you terribly mind wearing eyeglasses? They need not be functional."

"No … I think I can live with that. I understand I should not be recognizable."

Valles than opened the small satchel she had brought into the room and had left on one of the chairs. She took out a color-block patterned dress in yellow and white. "You can wear this for where we're going."

Ry nodded. "It's not bad. You have good taste, Valles."

"Any preferences for an alias?"

"I'd like to be known as Sen Kaydo, if that seems all right with you."

"Sen Kaydo, it is, then. I'll let you change …"

Ry quickly pulled off the hospital issue, and slipped the dress on. It was loose fitting and comfortable, while reasonably stylish.

Valles turned around, smiled again and stepped back. "Follow me, Miss Kyver. We shall proceed to my primary urban palace."

Ry was again a bit taken aback. Her new boss appeared to be unfathomably wealthy. But, immediately, she saw the advantages of this.

"Valles … your primary palace? If you don't mind my asking …"

"Not at all. The Santhé Family has lived in this building for the last century, but I decided it was too … confining. I have constructed many other residences on our planet, including one in orbit."

The two women proceeded out of the hospital, while Valles tapped a button on her com device. When they emerged from the front entrance, her elegant custom speeder was waiting. They hopped in and within about 10 minutes, were in front of the Santhé urban palace, a vast expanse, with about ten levels above ground, taking up some 275 thousand square metres. The architecture was classic, with many columns and porticos facing the street, an elegant, tree-lined boulevard named for an earlier Liannese monarch.

"Might I ask, what sort of government does Lianna have?" Ry asked, truly curious.

"We are, at present, a federal republic, where power is devolved to the countryside where possible."

"How does the agricultural sector manage itself?"

"Just a second …"

The two of them proceeded carefully into the main lobby, whereupon Valles looked around the vast expanse. Soon, they were approached by a female hospitality manager.

"Good afternoon, My Lady. Is this our new guest?"

"Yes. Mitorva, meet Miss Sen Kaydo. She will be taking a research position with the Company. She will reside here for the time being."

Ry and the manager briefly shook hands. Mitorva Pelumba was a woman in her mid-forties, wearing an austere brown dress, with her dark brown hair in a clipped style. She then snapped her fingers and a repulsor bench arrived. Valles was first helped to her seat, while Ry climbed in and sat next to her, as Mitorva drove. While they rode, Valles then reengaged Ry in discussion.

"Yes, you were asking about the agricultural sector. Well, we walk a fine line between individual entrepreneurship and what we like to call Best Practices. The sector is rewarded primarily by the commodities exchanges in the City and so it's mostly about yield per hectare."

"I suppose that's not too unusual, nor is it surprising. But, Valles, I seem to recall you mentioning your aim was producing food for export …"

"Indeed. With our superior cost structure, we should be able to dominate the Eastern Outer Rim."

Ry nodded. "I know just where you're going with this. So looking forward to getting down to business."

They soon arrived at Ry's new quarters, on the sixth level of the building. Mitorva opened the suite and showed them in.

"I think this should be sufficient for Miss Kaydo's needs …"

Ry glanced around the main room and her jaw literally dropped. There were several elegant and luxurious seating areas, along with three large holo-vid screens facing in different directions. She walked over to the window and gazed out on a lovely vista to the rear of the palace, where several fountains and gardens were visible. The color scheme below complemented the turquoise Liannese sky.

"It's wonderful, Valles. Thank you very much."

Mitorva then led her to the bedroom, which featured a separate walk-in closet – already stocked – and dressing area, and finally the bath, which contained a separate spa tub and a fully enclosed shower area that had a bench and footstool.

As they came back out to the main room, Valles turned to Mitorva.

"Await me outside. I'll be just a minute."

After the manager exited, Valles turned to Ry.

"Take this time to get settled. Try on some of the outfits, order some room service from the menu. I want you to feel comfortable here."

"I appreciate this, Valles. This is fit for a princess."

"Not quite …" she chuckled. "At least, not one here. But I expect to see you in my office atop the Tower in … two rotations. We'll talk business at that point. Again, welcome to Lianna, and to the Santhé Organization."

With that, Valles exited, leaving the former Minister of Agriculture with much to think about.

Felucia, 12 BBY 4 months, 20 days, 8 hours

Shaak Ti, by this time, officially Master of the Order, was in deep study in the completed holocron vault. Deep in the Felucian woods, this location would become the Togruta master's inner sanctum, where she could relax and reach out with the Force in various directions. The number of holocrons now installed in the vault reached 55 and these had various designations, but they also included about a half-dozen Sith holocrons and Shaak now had these in such a state that they could be more easily studied. She knew that mixing Sith and Jedi holocron data was a hazardous undertaking, so she kept these areas separate, but on this particular day, new insights came to her from the ancient Sith lore and knowledge.

There were many techniques, powers and abilities that the ancient Jedi had which had been almost lost in the era which Shaak found herself – but these were more aggressive uses of the Force which, about 10,000 years prior, had been deemed improper for the Jedi to study. The Master's primary aim at this point was creating a series of convection waves that could conceal the planet Felucia from outside eyes. This would have to work well enough so as to shroud the planet in a thick atmosphere that would be nearly impenetrable for starships that might find their way into the system. Of course, Felucia had once been the scene of various battles during the Clone War and before, but at this time, it had become something of an afterthought for Imperial planners.

Due to Palpatine's continual insistence on overwhelming military force, his empire was constantly trying to mine various worlds (including asteroid belts) in search of raw materials from which to construct ever more battleships – ISDs, SSDs, and the like. Felucia was largely bereft of such materials so the Empire didn't come calling. Shaak chuckled at the thought of Felucia essentially being under Imperial noses – despite its being in close proximity to Lianna, a rather important and vital part of the Empire on the eastern and northeastern Outer Rim. After six years on the planet, Shaak had come to know its real value – the tremendous diversity of plant species among its jungles and lush vegetation. She had also taken various trips around the planet with her starship, studying and cataloging all manner of life. The sum total being a world deeply connected and intertwined with the Force in all its manifestations, across a spectrum from Light to Dark. At one time, there had been a number of Force-sensitive animal species, at varying levels of sentience, but these were wiped out by a destructive battle near the end of the Clone War, where the Commerce Guild (part of the Separatist forces) had tried to establish a base of operations. During the battle, the water supply of the planet was near totally poisoned and, when Order 66 took place, the clones turned on their Jedi compatriots – including newly dubbed Master Aayla Secura – and killed them all. Because of the devastation, it would be many years before Felucia held any value to the Galactic Empire.

Shaak was aware of all of this when she and Maris first decided to make a home on Felucia some months after the Jedi Purge. Occasionally the Force Spirit of the late Master Secura – once a close friend of Shaak's – would somehow contact Master Ti. It was on one of those occasions during this time that she again appeared to Shaak in the underground vault.

"Good morning, my friend … I see you have been busy."

Shaak was startled for a second but answered in an even tone.

"Aayla. How gratifying it is to hear from you. I don't suppose this is a social call …"

"Indeed not, Master. I feel a new awakening inside you. The Force has found its new home."

"I study every day, good friend. Every day. It was the Will of the Force for me to have this knowledge."

Aayla's spirit seemed to take a form and she appeared almost alive. The deep-blue-teal Twi'lek had on a violet gown and her face seemed older, more relaxed, as if she had gained a new measure of wisdom in the almost seven years since her death.

The spirit spoke once more, before disappearing.

"For all of us, press onward, Master Shaak. We are with you."

Shaak stood and lowered her head slightly, while smiling, as Aayla's spirit vanished. Though the planet above was normally warm and humid – an ideal condition for the various plant species – the vault below was much cooler. Shaak had wrapped herself in a dark blue robe of rich velvet, which complemented the matching silk gown underneath. Her taste in elegant garments had evolved as her Jedi past receded. Master Ti was now living life almost entirely on her own terms and the course she was plotting for her new Order would be based on her own unique interpretation of the Force and its application to the Galaxy at large. This was an ongoing journey, one that would likely continue for the rest of her life. A quick meditation – perhaps thirty seconds in duration – was accompanied by a short chant in the Togruta language.

Taa'maaso ma'a jyo'otir gaa'maayaa (take me from dark to light – watch over me, your child).

Then she sat down and resumed her studies. At this a moment, an urge overcame her and she closed the holocron she was viewing and instead opened a pyramidal Sith holocron. Shaak knew the possible dangers of doing this, but she also felt a calling, from the Force itself. It's time to have a look at what I was not supposed to see. But why did we keep this material otherwise? If I am to defeat Sidious and his apprentice, I must understand what powers them.

Shaak shined the blue light as she turned the small capstone via the Force and the holocron opened and its reddish soul was bared. But this one seemed simple enough. It first informed: Through victory my chains are broken, the Force shall free me. Through passion I gain strength, through strength I gain power. She stopped, and meditated again for a few seconds. Yes, I am deeply passionate. It is ingrained within me. It was not something I shared in the Temple, but Yoda knew where my spirit was …

Soon, Shaak found herself perusing some ancient knowledge that had been compiled from the Sith lords in past millennia. There were concepts and descriptions of superweapons and keys pointing to other holocrons. Shaak at this time possessed four of these unique objects and came to understand they were correlated and formed a set – but it was unclear at this time who was responsible for creating this set. By channeling the essence of an ancient Sith Lady named Belia Darzu, the Togruta Master was able to navigate between them. Somehow, the Spirit of Aayla Secura – acting as some type of medium – was able to pass on this essence to Shaak, and once she began to master it, the secrets of the Sith were now available to her. One of these was the way to prepare her body – using Dark Side energy in minute quantities, to take on electric current and store it within her own mitochondria – the building blocks that enabled the Force-sensitive midichlorians. Thus, Shaak began a process that would enable her to become super-powered, one that would take years to perfect. Along the way, her daily meditations – both in the vault and above ground – were more productive than ever.

She then reached out for Force-sensitive individuals in the nearby sectors … and within minutes, the wall of the vault behind her transformed into a Galactic map. This had happened before, as she kept open the Jedi holocron with the entire known Galaxy as a running backdrop for her sessions, but this time, red and blue pinpoints appeared, placed by nothing other than the Master's own consciousness. Varda Wahi … I have found you. Come to you, I will, sister in the Force. But soon after that, another image was appearing in Shaak's mind. It was the essence of another Sith Lady from millennia past – Darth Hexid, a Zabrak, one whom her own beloved Maris was starting to resemble. It is well that I am able to direct Maris in her training, her power continues to grow and I shall enhance it. If she were ever to lose me, the energy rampant within her would make her Sidious's new apprentice and she will destroy Vader in the process. I must prevent this at all costs. Time with Varda will be helpful. And the Siluan Order. She will tame Maris's roaring inner fire.

Shaak paid heed and soon ended the Sith holocron session. Another chant … Miir'tyoor'ma aamr'taam gaa'maaya e shaa'nti (from death to immortality … and peace). She knew that such knowledge and power must only be taken in small doses.

Felucia, 12 BBY 3 months, 29 days, 5 hours

Early one Felucia morning – often Master Shaak's favorite time of day, because the stifling heat was at a minimum – Shaak called Maris to her via the Force. When the Zabrak arrived – a little bit sleepy, as she was a late riser – she was rather curious what the request was about. Shaak, already up and dressed in a new deep green silk gown, opened her door and gently embraced the Knight.

"I'm sure you are wondering what I am up to," the Togruta chuckled. "We're going to take a little trip."

"Oh! I was thinking about that yesterday, Master. I'd like to go someplace – you know Felucia can be a little boring."

Shaak chuckled. "I suppose I could upbraid you and say something like 'Jedi don't get bored' but that would be a lie. There were many times in my career when things moved slowly, despite my rapid rise."

"So where are we going?"

"My dear, your recent jaunt to Nechako had me thinking. I took a quick trip over there a few days ago, and it was unmistakable. Anakin – Lord Vader – paid that place a visit, and he was anything but a gracious guest. It seems our friend Devin is indeed no more."

Maris sighed. "As I had concluded. But how could you learn all of this?"

"Maris, a man like Vader is not subtle. Even though more than a year has passed since his visit to Nechako, his signature is etched on the planet's consciousness. Knowing Anakin as I do, this is firmly in character. The death of Devin is also still fresh enough and the disturbance in the Force that it caused is as well."

"Wow, Master. I am always impressed by your ability. You are so much more than a great warrior, you are the smartest person I've ever known … and you're always learning more. There are times – because I'm so busy training the acolytes – that you seem to just disappear for hours."

Shaak laughed heartily at that, then firmly patted Maris's right shoulder from behind.

"My child, life is about learning, as I'm sure you understand. And your own progress in the Force is admirable. Where do I go, you wonder … much of the time, I'm in the vault, making new connections as I digest more and more of the contents of the holocrons. It won't be long before I am ready to start training you in some new levels of ability. Being the first Knight of the Order is a great opportunity. I already consider you to be far more schooled and able than a typical Jedi would be at this stage. I've decided there will be levels of attainment for Knights and Padawans in the Order. Only when a Padawan reaches the third level is that person ready to think about Knighthood, and only when a Knight reaches the fifth level can she or he become a Master."

Maris thought for a second, then ventured a question.

"Master Shaak, do you believe you could defeat Vader at this time?"

Shaak gazed into her apprentice's eyes for a few seconds, then answered. "That's a matter of conjecture at this point, but even if the answer is yes, it would be most unwise as it would place me under the scrutiny of the Emperor."

"I see, Master. So the main thing is we want to always avoid any contact for the time being, because we must stay off the radar."

"Exactly."

Shaak then donned a new black velvet robe, one with a slight train, which gave her added elegance, and then handed Maris a silk dress she had created for her. It was a simple style, but also in the same green material as Shaak's new gown.

"It's beautiful, Master. Do you want me to wear this on our trip?"

Shaak nodded. "Please change into it when we arrive. I want us to set the right tone."

"Where, exactly, are we going?"

"A new place for us – a little planet called Iwaki, in the Essaga Sector on the Eastern Mid Rim. It's about a seven-hour journey so you can get the rest you need."

"So … what's on Iwaki?"

"Not what, so much as who. I have located our friend Varda."

Maris's heart felt a lift at the news. "That's great, Master. How can you know that?"

Shaak smiled benignly. "I have found new ways. Maris, when I am in the company of another Force-sensitive or adept person, I make mental notes of that person's Force signature. Over my career, I have never found any two people to be the same. I then offload the content of these notes into a holocron I keep for this purpose. One that catalogs my own Force knowledge and my impressions. Long meditation sessions in the vault have taken place over the past year. So, when I was spending time with Knight Varda, I got a full reading of her, such that I can now determine her location."

"That's amazing, Master. Will I be able to do that someday?"

"I don't see why not. But you are years away from that level now."

Shaak then stood and pointed the way. Maris followed her over to the Intrepid II. When they got there, Shaak gave her instructions.

"Please tell the acolytes we will return in three full rotations."

"Is Varda going to come with us?"

"We shall see about that."

Lianna, Santhé Tower, 12 BBY 3 months, 30 days, 11 hours

Valles Santhé called in her new researcher, Ry Kyver (alias Sen Kaydo), to her office for a morning consult. Kyver had thus far been a model employee, always quick to keep her boss up to speed on everything she was doing. In turn, being in a position to report directly to Valles had distinct advantages. She had been given a starting salary of one million credits annually and, under the circumstances, had no incentive whatsoever to give Valles any reason to doubt her. As she checked herself in the mirror, she nodded her head with a smirk. Wearing an elegant black silk dress – she always wanted to make a good impression on the boss, who was something of a style leader – and with her now brownish hair tastefully styled with a layered look, she felt amply confident.

A well-appointed company speeder brought her to the Tower, and deposited her on the 100th level, which was the normal arrival and departure platform for most managerial staff of the Santhé-Sienar Corporation.

"Good morning, Miss Kaydo," the attendant for the platform greeted her.

"I'm going to the top today, Hubie," Ry chuckled. "Boss lady wants to see me."

He nodded and laughed. It was already known that Sen Kaydo was a "pet" of Valles's and whatever anyone might have thought about that, they kept their opinions strictly to themselves. Ry, who was a fairly shrewd observer herself, had already started to absorb the corporate culture, and there was a rather healthy level of respect for the young lady who had the 215th floor all to herself. Despite Valles's arrogance, Ry found herself liking the woman more and more. Valles doesn't waste time. She's got much bigger plans and hopefully, I'm part of them.

Arriving at Valles's office, Ry was immediately greeted by the chairlady's personal assistant, Lasivia, when she arrived at the reception desk after exiting the lift.

"Good morning, Miss Kaydo. Lady Santhé is expecting you."

As Lasivia gracefully showed her in, Ry smiled at the assistant. "Thank you, madam."

Valles called her over and chirped "Good morning". The chairlady was also in another dress (she likely already had hundreds), this one a bright, almost electric, blue that shimmered as she walked in it, catching the light. Valles normally liked letting the sun shine into her office on most mornings and today was no exception.

She and Ry sat together in the lounge area, where a large table was before them, one that contained a holo-vid unit with an ample display area. Ry opened the discussion with a question.

"Valles. I've come to notice that it hardly ever rains on Lianna. Why is that?"

Valles laughed. "We've controlled our climate for a long time. Rain is scheduled at intervals, partially to clean the streets in the city, also to keep things from getting too dry. My skin prefers a level of moisture …"

Ry couldn't help but chuckle. "Must be nice. It seems everything on this planet dances to your tune."

Valles seemed to blush, but it was surely an affectation. "Oh, I wouldn't say thaaaat …" She almost giggled at the thought of total control. Give me time, friend. Give me time …

"So, Valles, were you happy with the numbers over this past month?"

"I was indeed. Your recommendations have been put in place. The synthetic meats are looking excellent. I'm hearing raves from the gourmet set in the City. Also, the gluten output is on a healthy upward slope."

Ry nodded, with a touch of a smirk – which she correctly deduced that her boss would appreciate. "And the program is not fully in place yet, my Lady. I have another working trip tomorrow scheduled with the barley and hops people. I don't see why Lianna cannot become a producer of fine ale."

"Very good. And what was your impression of the spirits industry … at present?"

"Needs some work, but I would caution that a business like that takes years to show results. Fine whiskey is generally a matter of ageing."

Valles nodded again. "Indeed. I'd been told much the same by the Corp-Sec guys who were here last month. I don't suppose they see me as much of a threat in that particular line."

"Well," Ry sighed. "They have a decided edge."

"True. So, taking the larger view, I am most pleased with the work you have already done in boosting our entire agricultural sector. Not just in quantity ... but in quality. I'm having a hard time understanding the objections which had been raised elsewhere about your tenure at the Ministry."

Ry laughed at that, feeling Valles was fully in her corner. "Ha! Those stuffed shirts hated being shown up by someone much younger. I'm sure you know exactly what I mean."

Valles innocently tossed her hair, letting a strong whiff of her fragrance permeate the air.

"I do indeed. It's never stopped me."

Their discussion went on for another 15 minutes or so, when Ry felt she could venture a question.

"My Lady, if I may be so bold, I'm somewhat curious about something."

"Oh?"

"Yes. In the past, I'd always thought of Santhé-Sienar as primarily an armaments maker. Are we branching out?"

Valles sat back and oozed more perfume. She was silent for a few seconds, then spoke.

"My grandfather – who is still nominally in charge here – had a vision of total planetary management. It, unfortunately, will not be attained soon, as his day to day health has become a concern."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. I know how much you admire him."

Valles didn't miss a beat. "Of course, such a vision requires careful planning. We already have formed round-table discussions with many of the other business leaders here. And of course, I own healthy blocks of stock in their firms. Personally … I, being something of a connoisseur of fine food and beverage myself, have taken an interest in the agricultural sector. Considering the commodity-like nature of its previous organizational model, it seemed ripe for the taking. And this is where you come in, my friend."

"I am grateful for the opportunity."

"Yes? Then you should appreciate what I'm about to offer you. A chance to buy in to the new firm we are establishing – Santhé Cuisine. We shall conduct an Initial Public Offering in the days to come. I want you to take a healthy position – perhaps 10 thousand shares at the opening bid."

Ry sat, temporarily amazed. She's really in a hurry. I'm not much of an investor but I can see this is a great opportunity. I might soon have the capital I need to fund my other plans.

"I'm in. But I might need a loan to get started on that large of a position."

Valles chuckled. "I think we can handle that for you. A sort of margin loan, perhaps. But you simply must buy. The IPO will sell out quickly and then … it's off to the races. One of the reasons I've been successful is that I know the right moment to strike."

The two women laughed heartily, and it was time for lunch. Valles and Ry proceeded to the corporate dining room together and continued their light banter, business having been concluded for the time being.

Iwaki, Mid Rim, 12 BBY 3 months, 29 days, 15 hours

The Intrepid II was dropping from hyperspace as it entered the Iwaki System. Shaak liked to approach places she'd not been to previously in a cautious manner. One never knew when unexpected circumstances might arise and she'd also made it a habit to have plenty of fuel aboard should a hasty return trip prove necessary. But this time, the planet seemed clear and the ship approached what appeared at first to be a dusty brown world. As they drew closer, the planet's color scheme changed and many darker green areas were visible. It now appeared to be a mountainous and forested world, with many fast running streams leading to moderate-sized seas.

Shaak immediately located Varda and opened a com device, trying to reach her.

"Knight Varda Wahi … this is Master Shaak Ti. Do you copy?"

The ship had settled into a low orbit, then a reply came, somewhat staticky.

"Shaak? Is it really you?"

The Togruta laughed. "Yes, my friend. In the flesh. Maris and I wanted to pay you a visit."

Varda now was wide awake and more than a bit excited. "By all means … please! We would love to see both of you." She had quickly drawn a lead on Shaak's Force signature and was quite happy about it.

Soon the Intrepid had landed, on a small field near some tidy little homes. Shaak quickly detected additional Force presences and as she reached out, they returned her greeting with warmth and kindness.

"I like it here, Master." Maris noted. "Quite peaceful."

"We are among friends, my child."

As the two of them debarked, Varda was there waiting, wearing her trademark sari with a light shawl over it. The temperature was a bit nippy as a steady wind blew, and both Shaak and Maris had on black velvet robes over their green silks.

Shaak and Varda embraced warmly, then Varda hugged Maris.

The Zabrak felt a bit emotional and couldn't help herself. "I'm just so happy you made it here! I went to Nechako a few months ago. It broke my heart."

"Yes, I was fortunate. But enough about me. Shaak, you must be hungry. Let's see if I can make you a stew …"

Shaak smiled. "That would be wonderful. But, say … how is your hip?"

Varda laughed. "Do you see the cane? I'm doing great. All thanks to you."

Shaak nodded. "My pleasure."

The three of them went into Varda's small home, a place which was somewhat larger inside than one might have thought. They all sat down and Varda poured some hot herbal tea, knowing how much Shaak liked it.

"So," Varda opened. "However did you find me? I'm quite pleased that you did."

"I've … been developing some new … abilities," Shaak replied. "Everyone has a Force signature. It's just a matter of knowing where – and how – to look. But I've also developed a relay capability that can gather recon on various parts of the Galaxy. The Rebellion is gathering strength."

"Ah," Varda smiled. "I'm aware of it, too. But we're likely a long way from doing anything serious."

Shaak laughed. "A journey of a million parsecs begins with a single light year. I am – at the very least – gratified over how our Order is progressing."

"That's good." Varda turned to Maris. "And you are no doubt helping with the training of the young devotees, yes?"

Maris laughed. "It's hard work on a place like Felucia. But they're rounding into shape. I'll make sure they lose any remaining baby fat."

Shaak then added, "We already have two Padawans selected. Great young men. Eager to learn, and best of all? No bad habits to break them of."

Varda jumped up – her hip truly was much better – and went to the kitchen. Soon she had returned with two steaming bowls of a stew of some unknown meat, which she served to her guests. Maris hungrily chowed down. As she ate, she turned to Shaak.

"Varda makes good food …"

Shaak laughed. "It's quite tasty. Someday, I'd love to treat you to some Shili barbecue. In fact," she said with a tight grin, "I tried to go there myself awhile back … but the Imperials were in the area."

"What did you do?" Varda asked, a bit concerned.

"The only thing I could. Cloaked the ship, then turned around and came back. Luckily I had enough fuel."

"Well, I'm just pleased that no bad result befell you. As I am sure you already know, we were not so lucky on Nechako."

"Yes," Shaak nodded, a grave expression on her normally inscrutable face. "The rampaging beast that Anakin Skywalker has become tore through the area."

Varda shook her head in sorrow. "Yes, you had told me about him before. I'd heard most Jedi were gone but I guess he's not one anymore. Shaak, who all do you think is left now?"

"So far … Yoda, Kenobi – although I've not paid him a visit – Jocasta Nu, Ahsoka Tano, Barriss Offee, Maris, myself, and yourself. I count eight."

"Hmm," Varda mumbled softly. "Shaak, that's not as bad as I had thought. There was a time that I thought I was alone."

"For a little while, I thought it was Jo, Maris, and I. Sure, there might be more. And, of course, the young acolytes I am training."

Varda thought for a second, then noted, "Ahsoka, I have worked with, and we talked a bit about that before, but Barriss Offee? What can you tell me about her?"

Shaak scrunched her lips up for a second. "Not much, unfortunately. It seems she and Ahsoka are spending time together, which is a bit surprising considering what happened."

"Hmm, Shaak, another aspect I was unaware of. When Ahsoka and I were together, she never mentioned anything about Barriss. Have you done any investigating?"

"Only from a distance. But our old Jedi comrade has now created a new identity of sorts. I would like to get closer to her for further inspection, but her Force signature is now considerably more powerful than it was in Jedi Order days."

"Oh?" Varda seemed a bit concerned as she stared at Shaak for a minute, then glanced at Maris.

The Zabrak gave away nothing, preferring to remain silent as she usually did when her master was in discussions. Shaak exhaled, then broke the silence.

"Yes, and as a matter of fact, I've now become convinced that it was she who was on the planet Savareen about two years ago."

"Savareen? It's not one I am familiar with."

"Oh, it's on the southeast Outer Rim, an interesting place, and the home of one of our younger Rebel leaders. It seems that someone impersonating a Jedi attacked that group single-handedly and was not only carrying a blue light-sabre, this person used the Force in a most aggressive manner, committing multiple murders in the process."

"And you now believe that was Barriss Offee? Quite interesting …"

"I went to the planet a few months ago, looking for clues. I didn't find very much, but Barriss had been there, the Force was telling me most clearly. I would like to gain closer access to her but I don't want to tip her off about my own situation, it's too risky."

"Do you believe she might compromise your position to the Empire?"

"I can't afford to be wrong on this."

"But what of Ahsoka? Doesn't this put her in some jeopardy?"

"Varda, I have an idea. The next time you see her, might you ask her about Barriss, and then gauge the reaction? Better yet, you might be able to meet with both of them at the same time."

"I don't know, Shaak. But I'm willing to try, if it will help you."

"You seem to have a working relationship with Ahsoka."

"I do. She seems to trust me. In fact, I have a line of communication to her as Fulcrum. Should I set up something?"

"If you can. I'm not in any hurry."

Shaak sat back and relaxed a little. It seems the subject of Ahsoka is stressful for her, Varda again noticed. I would like to help her on this. Our relationship has been reborn and I would very much like to keep building it.

Varda changed the subject. "Speaking of power, our friend Maris here has clearly progressed. I can feel it."

Shaak smiled. "She has indeed, and I recently made her the first Knight of the New Order. A position she richly earned."

Maris was starting to feel a little self-conscious, and spoke up. "I'm just doing my job … what Master Shaak has instructed me in."

Varda smiled, then reached over to touch Maris's forearm gently. "It's gratifying to see such diligence among younger Force adepts. I predict great things for you ahead, dear."

Shaak added, "She and I are going to explore some new potential areas of interest. Her education continues."

The Togruta paused to drink some tea. Seeing as her cup was empty, Varda hopped to her feet. "More, my friend?"

Shaak grunted happily and handed Varda the cup. Varda took it to her kitchen and refilled it, then returned and handed it to her guest. Shaak drank a bit of it and felt the warmth.

She then asked, "Varda, I'd like to offer you a chance to return to Felucia in a guest instructor capacity. My young acolytes could greatly benefit from your experience."

Varda sat down and seemed to consider the idea. "Shaak. I'd love to. But first, I was hoping to show both you and Maris some of our hospitality here and was hoping we also might go to Yemer to meet some of my other friends. There are some things I want you to be aware of."

It was Shaak's turn to be surprised. "Oh really. I am okay with that. Maris and I are due back on Felucia within three rotations. Perhaps we could work all of that in before we return, and might you be with us?"

"I would." Varda smiled.

"Very well. I want to meditate for a bit on my ship before we get some sleep. We will get together with you in the morning."

All three women stood. Maris curtsied politely to Varda, who then bowed slightly to Shaak. The Togruta returned the bow, then led her apprentice out of Varda's home and they walked over to the Intrepid.

Maris spoke to her for a minute before they went onto the ship. "Master, this could be interesting. I don't know about Yemer, but it would be great if she could stay with us on Felucia. The acolytes could gain some valuable teaching."

Shaak mostly nodded, then concluded. "Let's see how it goes."

To be continued …