Shaak and Maris: A Star Wars Story – Chapter 19
Ahsoka soldiers on without Barriss, while Shaak and Maris each make plans for the future. Valles has a reunion with an old flame. My apologies for the delay.
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Chapter 19: Alone Again, Naturally
Mirial, 10 BBY 7 months, 7 days
Ahsoka had awakened, feeling like herself again. She glanced at her left shoulder and could see no damage at all, not even a scar. What exactly happened? She tried to remember. Barriss. What happened to her? Ahsoka was seated on the flight deck of the Mirialan's ship Bliss as it was traveling through hyperspace. Then she glanced at a read-out on a small screen, written in Basic.
To Ahsoka, my dearest love. I had to leave. Someday I will return, but please know I will always love you and we will be together again. Please follow the written instructions in the letter I left for you. Best wishes and good luck for the Rebellion, and you will be victorious. Love always, Barriss.
As she read the onscreen message, the tears came to her eyes. Alone again. Why did you have to leave? We were getting close. I guess it's the Will of the Force. She then noticed a small envelope, addressed to her. As she read it, she realized the implications. Barriss had gone and was not coming back. There were instructions about her property on Mirial and what she wanted done with it.
Soon, the ship landed. Ahsoka then debarked, after changing into an elegant long dress and wearing a typical Mirialan veil to disguise her face. A speeder then arrived to take her into the heart of the city, eventually to Barriss's townhome. As she arrived, Ahsoka entered and went to the top level of the elegant home Barriss had settled in. She sighed as she looked around, admiring her friend's beautiful wardrobe of many colors – these were far cheerier than the normal garb of a serious Mirialan female, but Barriss had become a most confident individual in recent years and carried herself with a swagger amongst her own people.
Per the instructions, Ahsoka activated the computer system and looked into her friend's financial records. An account showed that Barriss was now worth some 50 million credits and was building a small inventory of some desirable properties on her home world. My goodness, Barriss, you were becoming more and more powerful. Such a pity you have to leave. I will follow your instructions. These properties, plus your ship, should give new resources to the Rebellion.
After a couple of days on Mirial, Ahsoka had concluded most of the negotiations and the sales were complete. She then transmitted the news to Bail Organa on Alderaan and how he could access the account that contained the proceeds of all the sales. Her own ship, Essence, was still on Mirial from when she had come to visit Barriss before their trip to Scarif. As she boarded it, Ahsoka sighed and felt a new sense of longing for her now departed friend and lover.
Someday we will meet again, my dear Barriss, the Force is telling me that. You and I had a reconciliation and I was so happy about that. I know you really didn't intend to hurt me and fortunately, Anakin was able to find you and force you to confess. Imagine my surprise to find you some three years later. I was sure the Empire had done you in. Wherever you've gone, I hope you will be happy and find what you're looking for – though I must say I have no idea what that is. But I have to put our past behind me and move on. Plenty of work to do for the Rebellion now. Goodbye, Mirial. I have no intention of returning here now, as it seems empty.
She decided to head for Void Station and contacted Hera Syndulla via the intel network. Returning to her mechanic job at the station seemed like the only thing to do at this point. As Fulcrum, she knew that new assignments would be coming her way, but would this sadness ever leave her? It was similar to how she felt that day when she walked away from Anakin and the Jedi.
Scarif, 10 BBY 7 months, 8 days, 2 hours
Darth Vader awakened, seated at the controls of his TIEx1 ship, in orbit over the planet. He stared ahead for a few seconds, attempting to determine what had just taken place. I seem to recall having been on the surface below, near the seashore … but … wait.
He then checked the ship's records, which held no evidence of a landing. No, that cannot possibly be true. Curious. He shook his head for a few seconds, then resolved to put it out of his mind. The ship was in orbit and he started making observations. This planet will be adequate for the Death Star project. We will construct a facility below and create a shield generator, with a gateway. The battle station will be ready to travel here in a few months.
Felucia, 10 BBY, 7 months, 3 days, 8 hours
Shaak was up and around on a relatively cool Felucian morning. She had, by this time, completed the research on the new Mestarian crystals and their chemical composition. They were a combination of Germanium and Bromine, with hydroxide atoms to complete the molecular structure. But there was an added Force dimension to them as well, which only someone sensitive to it could detect. Via the Force, she summoned Maris to her home.
As the Zabrak arrived, the door slid open for her and she went to sit in front of the Master.
"Yes, Master Shaak?"
"My child, I have recently made a compelling discovery …"
She proceeded to recount the details of her journey to Mestare and the new crystals. Maris's mind started thinking about the implications of it.
"Master, we can build lightsabres that are more powerful than our current weapons. This is greatly important. But how long would it take?"
"Likely a few years, my child. Our next task is to find a suitable location here. Over the next few days, I want you to work with the rancors and see if they know of the kind of cave we will need. Do not hurry this assignment."
She raised her right hand and caused a small crystal of the Mestarian compound to fly into it, which she handed to her apprentice.
"This is a sample. Too small to use at this time for a sabre, but you can come to know its properties so you may meditate on it. Report back to me on your progress over the next few weeks."
"Absolutely, Master."
Shaak paused for a second, then looked up. "I sense you have something else to tell me."
"Yes, Master. The Crimson Dawn organization is under new leadership. Lady Qi'ra, as she now calls herself, is offering us a new deal on further coaxium."
Shaak chuckled. "The affairs of these groups are always in flux. Be careful in your dealings with them. I detect not all is as it seems."
Maris simply nodded, then rose and bowed to her master and left with the new mini crystal in her hand.
Lianna, 10 BBY 6 months, 22 days
Valles Santhé was having a somewhat romantic dinner in Lianna City with someone she had known from her childhood. Around the time that she had finished her primary and secondary levels of schooling, she was sent to the Hapes Cluster sector on the Inner Rim, where she befriended the prince of the system who was about a year older than she. Prince Vaston was the eldest son of Vestalia, the longtime Queen of Hapes, a well-populated area of about 120 or so planetary systems, and one rich in natural resources that the Galaxy needed. Needless to say, his family was wealthy on a par with that of the Santhés, so they had much in common.
The prince's mother was very fond of Valles and dearly wished that her son would marry the Liannese, but he preferred being the most eligible bachelor and had embarked on a partying and womanizing lifestyle similar to that of Valles's father Bithaw Santhé. But he nevertheless had grown more attracted to the young lady he knew when they were both around ten years of age. At that time in their lives, both Valles and Vaston discovered they were Force-sensitive and made a pact that they would not reveal it to anyone. However, as time went by, his mother Vestalia and Valles's grandfather Kerred became aware – due to their own Force sensitivity – and discussed it privately. They agreed to keep this information strictly private. Both Valles and Vaston were aware that the two elders knew of it as well, and they were also aware of the need to keep it a secret from the Empire and, especially, Emperor Palpatine.
As the two were seated, they admired each other's looks. Valles was in a resplendent red ensemble that glittered brightly, while the Prince was also in red and navy blue, cutting a sharp figure with his light-tinted hair.
"It is most rewarding to see you again, my dear Valles. You grow more beautiful all the time."
She chuckled. "You are looking well, yourself, my old friend. I have missed you, but I stay busy to keep my mind off of other things."
"Well, how long has it been, love? At least a couple of years … I was sorry to hear about your grandpa."
Valles sighed and looked into his eyes. "It was hard. He was more like my father and I was an only child, as you of course know."
"Yes. And my mother was fond of him too." He laughed softly. "So, will we be staying in the palace tonight?"
Her eyes seemed to twinkle for a second. "I think you will prefer the new one I've built in the suburbs. It has much more land and the gardens and woods are lovely."
He smiled, reached across, took her hand, and squeezed it gently. "No lovelier than you …"
"You say that to everyone," Valles chuckled, as her eyelashes fluttered and she shook her hair slightly, giving the Prince a full nose of her seductive perfume.
He made a show of inhaling it deeply and smiling broadly.
"But I only mean it … with you."
Vaston leaned over toward her, and she did the same, returning his smile. His left hand moved gracefully toward her and his index finger landed just under her chin. As he felt the exquisite softness of her facial skin, he moved in to kiss her gently. She met him tenderly, and, as her eyelashes fluttered, she let another seductive whiff of her perfume grace his senses. The kiss lasted about two seconds, and as he pulled away, he gave a soft "ah …" as her smile continued.
"So, was it worth the wait, dear?" She uttered in a coquettish manner like she might have done on her 12th birthday.
He simply smiled and was able to maintain an air of cool detachment. The meal – really more a collection of miniature hors d'oeuvres – was uneventful as they exchanged pleasantries about Hapan and Liannese current events. But there was an exciting undercurrent for the both of them. You know you want me … and if ever I was obtainable, this would be the time, my dear prince.
Vaston broke the ice with a shared memory. "Valles, darling, do you remember when I taught you to skate on the ice of Tinta? Your cheeks were such a lovely rosy red … I think I knew I was in love with you even then. What a figure you cut in your cute little frock as you spun around. You were such a natural."
She laughed openly. "Go on … I'm rather enjoying this."
"I should think so … tell me, dear, is there anything you cannot do if you put your mind to it?"
She glanced up at the ceiling as if she were trying to think of something witty to say, but simply answered. "If there is, Vas, you shall find it."
About ninety or so minutes later, the two of them were ready to leave. Vaston graciously helped Valles rise from her chair and gallantly straightened the Lady's train behind her exquisite red glitter gown. They walked out, hand in hand, the air thick with possibilities of what lay ahead. Attendants helped them both into a speeder limousine, which took them about 20 km out from the City center to the newly constructed palace that she had commissioned a couple of years earlier. It had recently been opened to great fanfare as the Lady threw an elegant bash that had been attended by most of the planet's "A list". She had thrown the two lower levels of the building open so that her guests could make the rounds and explore the sumptuous appointments the place had to offer. The "palace" was really more of a small luxury hotel that had perhaps fifty bedrooms, but it was arranged into many lovely suites, each with a different theme and color scheme, that celebrated each of the worlds in the Allied Tion and neighboring sectors, which Valles intended to rule in an unofficial capacity.
Valles and her would-be beau arrived and were escorted to the fifth and uppermost level of the building, and the Lady's private suite of some 25 rooms, which included four different baths. When they reached her main bedroom – a huge area of some 300 metres square – the Prince knelt before her as he kissed her right hand. She laughed softly and was enjoying the attention. Soon they were helped out of their elegant outfits by attendants and into sumptuous velvet and satin robes. Finally alone together, Valles invited him into the spa area off her main bedroom, whereupon they both disrobed and slid smoothly into the warm water together and embraced tenderly. Once she was in his arms, Vaston felt he never would let go of the nymph-like little woman with the heavenly head of black hair. A night of romance was ahead of them.
The next morning, as they enjoyed breakfast in their robes on the terrace overlooking the beautiful gardens, it was time to talk business.
"My dear," she began. "You wanted to know how my dominions were proceeding. The answer is quite well. At this point, of course, I move quietly in the background, building an economic base."
"Sweetheart, you had mentioned something the last time we were together – too long ago, I should say – about wanting to establish your firm in agriculture. How is that coming along?"
"Quite well, as it's turned out. I have a very ambitious assistant who has many good ideas. She rightly points out the role that food provision can play in developing loyalties. I see many other planets in nearby sectors – such as Raxus and Lothal – that can help me here. The latter world is also a candidate for the location of the next TIE manufacturing facility. We are working on a prototype that ought to be most successful for the Empire."
"Valles … I assume you are cultivating relationships with the various Moffs – especially Wilhuff Tarkin – correct?"
"Indeed. He is an ambitious sort, and he seems somewhat smitten with me. Of course, he's not at all my type, but we can be of use to each other. He seems to have Palpatine's ear."
"A most fortunate set of circumstances, I should say, darling."
She simply nodded, with a sly smile.
After they had finished, it was time for the Prince to be on his way, as he had business elsewhere on the Outer Rim. He dressed quickly and returned to her. As he bid his longtime friend goodbye, he issued an invitation.
"Valles, you simply must come to Hapes and visit us. We will entertain you in the style you deserve, and Mother would love to see you."
She smiled and winked, still in her robe. "I would love to. Tell your mother hello from Lianna and she is welcome here anytime."
Void Station, 10 BBY 6 months, 15 days
Ahsoka and Hera were hanging out at a club and seated near the bar. It was an establishment near the hotel where the Togruta lived most of the time. Ahsoka was deeply saddened when her friend Barriss had to leave and she wondered exactly why. Hera listened to her story about what happened, but Ahsoka could not remember what happened to Barriss or why she left Scarif alone.
"So …" Hera started. "You went with her to Scarif for a vacation? Was it nice there?"
"Yes. It was beautiful. We rented a cottage on the shore. The waves at night were so peaceful. Barriss and I would sit on the beach together. We were falling deeper in love."
"But now she's gone … I feel terrible for you."
Ahsoka simply sighed. "I guess I'm not meant to have anyone in this way, but I don't understand why."
Hera tried to console her Togruta friend. "What can you remember about how she left?"
"It was our third day there. We were on the beach together, having finished our dinner and some wine. Then …"
"Yes?"
"I seem to recall a Force presence. We both felt it. There soon came a dark figure. It was a man, or at least, it seemed to be one. I couldn't tell. He spoke in a deep voice. Said something about how the Apprentice lives and so does her rival."
"Anything more?"
"No … I'm drawing a blank."
"What was the next thing you remember?" Hera said softly, while gently grasping Ahsoka's right forearm.
The Togruta thought about it for a few seconds.
"Not much. I was on Barriss's ship, going through hyperspace. I didn't know the course, but when it dropped out, I was heading to Mirial."
Hera paused. "That's it?"
"Yes. Strange, huh?"
"You bet it is … I would say your mind is blacking out some things."
"Many things. I then saw a written message on the ship from Barriss. She was telling me goodbye and asking me to sell her home and ship and her other possessions. She said I could use the money to help the rebellion."
"Wow, that is strange. The time I met her, she seemed prosperous. I owe her a lot … including the Ghost."
Ahsoka sighed again, then smiled and turned back to Hera.
"That was an example of how generous she is … so what shall we do now, friend? You've got a ship. I've got a ship. The Rebellion …"
Hera chuckled. "That's right. You know … Kanan and I were talking the other night. About maybe preying on Imperial supply ships and taking their cargo to help the rebels. Does that sound interesting to you?"
"Yes! At least, I feel like we could do some good things. And …" she paused a second to take a swig of ale. "I've got this other friend – she was also in the Jedi. She's a bit older than we are, but I think she might be interested in joining us."
"Really? What's her name?"
"Varda Wahi."
"Never heard of her."
"I'm not surprised, but I can contact her … she lives on planet called Iwaki."
"I don't know that one …" Hera laughed.
"Don't worry about it," Ahsoka chuckled. "But here's the thing. I've got a slight advantage as a Togruta."
"How so?"
"Our home world, Shili, is seen to be a loyal part of the Empire. Our leaders praise the Emperor for …" Ahsoka raised her hands, making quotation signs. "All he's done for the Galaxy."
"Right …" Hera groaned.
"Yeah, so anyway … when I'm not working, I wear some nice stuff and blend in with the crowd here. And … I hear stuff."
Hera's expression changed slightly, as both of her lekku twitched.
"What stuff …?"
"Various dealings – between syndicates and local Moffs and the like. My hearing and senses are quite keen. But the people around here don't know that about Togruta."
"Hmm … this could be great for us. Do you have system credentials?"
"Some of them … it would be good if we had someone who is an expert slicer."
Hera nodded. "That would be good. So, when is your next meeting with the rebels?"
She said the last three words in a very soft tone as she moved closer to Ahsoka, who also nodded in response.
"Nothing scheduled. I'll keep you posted."
Ahsoka got up, as if she wanted to leave. Hera then rose and they clasped hands for a second.
"I'm off to bed," the Togruta chuckled. "See you tomorrow?"
"Sure. Take care …"
Felucia, 10 BBY, 6 months, 1 day, 10 hours
Varda Wahi arose early this day in her home that she shared with Maris, and did some exercises that Shaak had showed her to strengthen her body and spirit, then poured herself some tea that Shaak had shown her how to make. As she sipped the delicious beverage, a message came across her com device. The heading mentioned Fulcrum, so she knew well whom it was from.
Varda … I hope this finds you well and in good spirits. I want to propose a meeting between us and also introduce you to another friend, an asset called Ghost. If you are good with this, hit me back with a time and place. We need to be discrete.
The elder thought it over and decided she had to tell Shaak. Maris, at this time, was elsewhere, presumably meeting with Crimson Dawn operative Lady Qi'ra about buying more coaxium, but she didn't give much in the way of details. After finishing her tea, she walked over to Master Shaak's home. When she arrived, the Master was in meditation, so she waited outside, knowing Shaak's preferences in this area.
After about ten minutes, Shaak ended her session and detected Varda's presence, then flicked a finger, causing her door to slide open.
"Good morning, my friend. What's on your mind?" Shaak said, in her usual soft-spoken manner.
"Master Shaak, I received a communication from Fulcrum, asking me to meet with her and someone new to the rebellion."
Shaak smiled for a second, then responded. "Please take the meeting, Varda. I'm interested in what our friend is up to."
"Sure," Varda nodded. "What might be a good place to meet? I'm not ready to return to Iwaki at this time. Perhaps somewhere on the Wheel … but, do you know where Maris is at this time?"
"I would think," Shaak began, "that she had discussed this with you. Am I mistaken?"
"No …" Varda stated diplomatically. "However, Maris seemed somewhat secretive so I didn't want to press her.
"I don't think she wanted to drag you into what she's doing."
"What is she doing?"
"Meeting with a syndicate about some coaxium. She ran into … some complications last time."
"Oh yes, of course. We talked about that with her almost a year ago. She was embarrassed."
"I know. But it was a lesson for her. If we use Dark Side methods on non-Force sensitive people it can lead to trouble. Maris has to think of more appropriate means to solve … certain situations."
Varda simply nodded.
"Shaak, I think it's remarkable how much you care about her. And … it also shows me that your idea of a new Order is more than just talk. She's very fortunate to have you – not just because you probably saved her from certain death at the ends of Palpatine or Vader – but because she is like a daughter to you. It doesn't matter that she's a Zabrak and you're a Togruta. In the true Jedi Way, you reach across those kinds of boundaries to form a stronger union."
Shaak smiled and sighed. "I am just doing what is right. The code I learned as a Jedi, but not the one that too many of them ended up not following. Don't misunderstand me. I'm not blaming anyone in particular. Mace, Yoda, or any of the others on the Council. We all failed in our own way. When I watched Ahsoka walk away from us, I saw it in the eyes of each of us. We knew something was wrong … but I didn't die that day I found Maris. Instead I was reborn, and given a chance to reconcile my life with my feelings about it."
"And we are most fortunate that you did, Shaak. What happens next?"
"Varda. I have made a most remarkable discovery." Shaak got up and went into her small kitchen and poured them both a cup of a chilled herbal beverage, then returned to her main room.
"Just over two months ago, on a trip I was taking through the northern Outer Rim. On my way to Dantooine, I felt a strange signal, calling to me. Once I had the chance to look deeper into it, I traced it to the planet Mestare. So I went there and the Force was calling me."
"What did it tell you?"
"It directed me to a cave filled with pink crystals. These were made of Kyberite ore, but a different and more potent version than any we used as Jedi long ago."
Varda stroked her chin as she considered this find.
"Shaak … do you think …"
"Someone planted these? I have no way of knowing. There certainly weren't any signs."
"But … do you think Palpatine knows of this place?"
"I really don't know … but … I don't think the Force energy of the place was from the Dark Side. I got a very light feeling there. And I've decided I want to find a suitable cave here on Felucia that we can seed with these same crystals, but I want to keep Mestare as a unique place for our Order and its future."
"Does Maris know about this yet?"
"I have informed her. And I want her – and you – to work together with the rancors to find the cave we need."
Varda nodded her assent. "Sounds like a good idea. Do you suppose these crystals could someday power a new, more powerful lightsabre?"
"I know this much. They can cut through cortosis. And we must not let the Imperials learn of this find. Mestare is not on our old Republic star charts. I've checked the holocrons. Therefore, I don't think it would be on Imperial charts either. Palpatine was never much of a swordsman – or at least, he didn't show much interest in it – so I doubt he knows of it."
"Well," Varda chuckled. "I never was much of one myself. But … maybe … I could stand a little training."
Shaak laughed. "Any time you're ready, my friend. I might be willing to review some basics with you."
"Seriously? I'm feeling much better since you healed my hip that time."
"I'd want you to get into better shape with Maris. She'll know a good routine to get you started. You're never too old. Look at Master Yoda." Shaak chuckled as she mentioned the name. "I miss him." She paused to finish her cup of herbal drink. "Well, I've business to attend to. We are doing some work on the vault today and my study time has been lacking of late."
Varda smiled as she rose. She and Shaak shared a brief hug. "Have a wonderful day, Master …"
The Wheel, 10 BBY, 5 months, 29 days
Maris was again at the Wheel. She had established a small office space for herself there – nothing more than three metres square, with a computer terminal and a small working surface – but it was enough. From here she could conduct Order business in relative privacy and she had set up some security measures via the Force that would tell her if anyone had breached the space. Shaak had instructed her to never leave any documents around nor traces of much else, but there was also just space enough for her lie down and catch a little rest if needed, though Maris preferred to stay on her ship (which had enough to sleep two adults) and conserve Order funds.
Her mail account had a message – just a few days old – from Lady Qi'ra. Opening it, she read:
Greetings, Lady Maris. Hope this finds you well. We would very much like to retain your business and are willing to make a most fair offer – a bonus canister for every five you purchase from us. Please respond at the address listed herein. We look forward to seeing you again. Lady Qi'ra.
Maris chuckled over this but decided to respond.
Dear Lady Qi'ra: I am ready to meet with you – in person, at a neutral location. I propose Charros IV. Come alone.
Maris.
The next morning, Maris awakened in her office. She'd slept maybe three hours, after having become inebriated at the Players Club while playing a few hands of Sabacc. Her friend Shelley Faizon arrived to help her out and they repaired to the Dewdrop Inn, where the Twi'lek hostess Verenia was overjoyed to see her. Shelley and Verenia both attended to the Zabrak in a private room, caressing her horns (which were somewhat sensitive) and providing her some arousal. While it was happening, Maris knew that Shaak would likely frown on this behavior but she told herself no harm was being done. What's so bad about making two people happy? I am surprised, however, at how many people seem to find me attractive.
But now, she was groggy and decided to get a caf. A nearby vending machine served a steaming brew for just a single credit. After returning to her office, Maris saw that Qi'ra had responded. Good, that's about a two-hour trip from here. I can get a little more shut-eye.
Charros IV, Taldot Sector, Eastern Mid Rim, 10 BBY, 5 months, 28 days
As Maris took the Forager down, she could see that Charros was a typical terrestrial planet. While orbiting, her ship's computer gave her the read-out It had snow-capped mountain ranges, brackish lakes, and arid plains, suitable for farming. There were lusher areas for livestock grazing so it seemed the world had something of an agricultural footprint. The population was varied, some human, some of other near-human species, and the Imperial presence was not heavy.
The ship set down on a dusty area where few crops grew as there was not much water. Upon landing, she transmitted a signal which was received by the yacht First Light, which had just dropped from hyperspace and was proceeding to the planet. Am here, awaiting your arrival. Soon, the orbiting vessel dispatched a small pod, which located the Forager and landed nearby. Maris stood ready, dressed in black pants and a dark tunic, her demeanor calm, her lightsabre concealed, but ready if needed.
Qi'ra exited the pod, wearing a dark tight leather outfit that flattered her figure and a maroon satin cape over her shoulders. She smiled as she approached Maris and curtsied politely. Maris nodded her head in a semi-deferential bow.
"Greetings, Lady Brood. You are looking well …"
Maris saw no reason to be hostile. "As are you, Lady Qi'ra. I am ready to hear your offer."
"Shall we sit down?"
"Yes, please come aboard my ship," Maris gestured toward the Forager.
Once they had taken seats, Qi'ra produced a hologram from her com device and demonstrated some of the coaxium canisters, along with specifications and prices.
"I'm prepared to sweeten the offer. If you purchase twelve, we'll give you a complementary unit for each four, making fifteen in all."
"What's the total price?" Maris asked.
"Two hundred thousand."
"Hmm … sounds like a discount. Is this still the usual product?"
"Yes, refined by the Pyke Syndicate. They have Imperial dispensation."
Maris thought it over, then replied. "I'm interested … but why do you want to offer me such terms?"
"Because, I'm now in charge of Crimson Dawn and I deeply regretted the attempt my former boss made to rob you. I want to show that we can be a reputable organization."
"I see. Well, my boss has given me the authority to negotiate on this so I would like to look over the merchandise."
Qi'ra smiled. "I knew you were a reasonable woman, Lady Maris. Would it suit you to come aboard our yacht, the First Light?"
"I don't feel comfortable there, I'm sure you understand." Maris nodded ever so slightly, making a gesture with her hands open toward Qi'ra.
"I do understand, and I think I have the perfect solution. Elsewhere on this planet there is something called the "Merchants Mart" and our organization has a booth there. We are in affiliation with Santhé-Sienar."
Maris tilted her head slightly. "I must profess ignorance. Who are they exactly?"
"Only one of the most important corporations in the entire galaxy. Their reputation is beyond reproach. They can even insure your purchase for a modest 5% fee if you so desire."
"Hmm," Maris smiled, with a sly look crossing her face. "I suppose I can't say no, then," she finished with a chuckle.
Qi'ra then wrote a pair of coordinates on a small slip of paper and handed it to Maris.
"We'll see you in about two hours, then? When you arrive, someone from Santhé-Sienar will greet you."
"Looking forward to it."
Qi'ra rose, then curtsied again to Maris before leaving the Forager. Maris watched her stride over to the pod, then it lifted off and headed up to the yacht. Maris closed her ship's hatch and prepared for the short trip after entering the coordinates.
As she docked with the First Light, Qi'ra was soon met by Maul.
"It's all set, my liege. She responded well to our offer."
"Very good," he said softly. "This will be a legitimate transaction. She must be put at ease by our organization. Under no circumstance shall we disappoint her. Let's meet for a minute."
Maul then led Qi'ra to a small conference room, where he poured a glass of whisky, then offered one to Qi'ra.
"Just a splash for me, thanks," she replied.
"Very well." He then poured about a finger's worth into a shot glass and handed it to her. "Now, let me ask you – how did she seem? Was she relaxed?"
"I'd say so. She had her guard up, but the lady has an unmistakable swagger about her."
"As well she might …" he noted, pensively. "It would be good to know whom she is working for … Black Sun, perhaps? Prince Xizor sometimes likes having operatives like her on staff. I think we might make her a better offer."
Left unsaid, of course, was Maul's real desire – to take the measure of his fellow Zabrak and begin a good working relationship with her. He concluded she had a strong Force ability and they might make an excellent team.
Charros IV, The Merchants Mart, 10 BBY, 5 months, 28 days
Two hours later, Maris had landed her ship at a downtown platform and made her way by speeder over to the Merchants Mart. It was an impressive structure, some 25 stories tall but with a massive ground footprint of perhaps 300 metres on a side. She realized that she was in what appeared to be the only city of size on Charros. Maris had changed into one of her red dresses – one a bit more formal than what she wore on The Wheel – and was ready to conduct business. Upon entering the building, she had little difficulty finding the floor and booth location. She proceeded over to it and was greeted by Qi'ra.
"Hello, Lady Brood. I'd like to introduce you to my managing partner. He is pleased to do business with you."
At that moment, Maul stepped forward, formally dressed and taking a bow, he introduced himself.
"I am Paul Talzin, chief executive of the CD Organization. Most pleased to finally meet you, Lady Brood."
Maris curtsied, raising her skirt slightly. She glanced at Qi'ra, whose face was expressionless. Realizing that 'Talzin' was a fellow Zabrak registered with her. Interesting – something inside tells me I should know who he really is.
"Please to meet you, Mister Talzin," she responded firmly. "Shall we get on with it?"
"Ah, a no-nonsense woman," he replied in a relaxed, gentle tone. "I am hoping we can gain your future loyalty. Please come in."
She followed them into the booth, and there, waiting on a table, were the fifteen canisters she had agreed to purchase. Maris took one out, opened it and used the Force to scan its contents. She did the same with a second, and then turned back to Maul.
"Everything seems to be in order. I am ready to take delivery. As for payment, will you accept a draft?"
Qi'ra whispered into Maul's ear for a second. Maris then pulled out a titanium card that she inserted into her com device.
Maul nodded, then smiled. "Your credit is good, Lady Brood."
He turned to Qi'ra. "Provide her the account."
Soon the transaction was complete and Qi'ra verified the funds had been transferred.
"Did the Lady wish to have insurance? Santhé-Sienar will replace your shipment whole or in part."
"That will not be necessary. Your product is quite adequate." Maris answered, smiling and nodding.
She turned to go, but 'Paul Talzin' insisted on helping her with product and wanted to deliver it to her ship personally. He seemed quite sincere but it was immediately obvious to her that he was strong with the Force. This might be an opportunity of sorts. She accepted his offer. He took the case with the fifteen canisters (which weighed out at around one kilo each) and they walked to the lift together. Maris decided to pretend to take him at face value.
"So, Paul … how long have you been running the CD Organization?"
He answered evenly. "Almost ten years."
More pleasantries followed and the two Zabraks traveled by speeder back to the landing platform upon which stood the Forager. They continued aboard, and Maris then stowed the shipment in a luggage compartment. She invited him to share a quick shot of whiskey together, which he happily accepted. Once they were seated across the lounge table, he then made his move.
"Maris Brood," he said the name slowly, carefully enunciating each syllable. "Perhaps you know, already, that my name is Maul."
"Ah … thank you, sir," she replied, pretending to be unaware of the significance. "Probably a good idea to go by an alias in this day and age. I'm sure that you have your own reasons for that." Her red eyes met his at almost the same instant.
He was pleased with her keen perception. "Let's put our cards on the table," he said slowly, using a Sabacc expression. "You are Force sensitive, so am I – and, I believe we can be of great value to each other. Might you be able to divulge, at this point, whom you are working for?"
"I would prefer to keep that confidential," she stated, her voice remaining calm.
"I quite understand," he replied evenly. "But might you entertain … outside assignments?"
"That would depend," she said slowly. "On the nature of these 'assignments' ... I am a busy person."
Maul had already taken the measure of Maris, quickly determining her Force power was indeed substantial. This is no Jedi Padawan, nor is she some type of renegade Inquisitor. He also detected the Kyber crystal of her concealed lightsabre – the same one that Qi'ra had informed him of months earlier. The thought of working with her to perhaps carve out a more substantial domain interested him greatly. He had to gain her trust, however, and the Lady was understandably cautious. Maul decided it would be unwise to push her any further at this point. The scores he wanted to settle – with Obi-Wan Kenobi (whom he was certain had survived the Jedi Purge nine years earlier) and Darth Sidious – would not be easy, but having Maris on his side would improve his odds substantially. Anything worth having is worth waiting for.
"I am gratified to find such talent in a fellow Zabrak. Did you grow up on Iridonia, or are you Dathomiri?"
"The former, sir. But I've never been one to work with anyone due to my species. However, yes, I do have other Zabrak friends and allies."
He nodded, then rose, having finished his whisky. She rose as well, and started to walk him to the ship's hatch.
"It has been a pleasure, Mister Talzin. I'm sure we will be in communication."
He then bowed to her, and she returned with a similar bow.
"Good day," he muttered, then exited the ship. Maris watched him for a few seconds, then scoffed quietly. She went to the flight deck and indicated to the spaceport control that she would be leaving; her ship already having been prepped for lift off. Goodbye, Charros.
To be continued …