AN: Valles makes moves, Maris's education continues.

Thanks to new followers: Sued13, ElsaBerserion95

Chapter 25: A Place of Great Power

Pasmin, Ry's lab, 6 BBY 11 months, 10 days, 13 hours

Ry Kyver – by now, the Santhé Corp's VP of Planetary Development and Director of Special Projects for the Chairlady – was putting the finishing touches on her presentation materials that she had planned to give Valles when she returned to Lianna. The onetime Imperial Agriculture Minister had by now become one of Chairlady Santhé's most trusted associates and had also become a multi-billionaire and had been given title to one of Lady Santhé's palaces – an elegant manorial estate of some 200 rooms that sat on a 40-hectare expanse with meadows and forest. Ry had greatly appreciated this gift and set about turning the estate into more than just a pleasurable place to live. She could now conduct various experiments pertaining to planetary engineering in the underground areas of her new palace, which was about 150 km outside of the City and thus well away from any prying eyes.

But now, Ry was on Pasmin, wrapping up her successful series of experiments with midichlorian enhancement – a project she had been working on for over 8 years. She looked back with pride about how the project began – none other than Emperor Palpatine himself had commissioned it for her, as he was concerned with how to best extend his life being that his body was slowly being ravaged by Dark-side Force activity. But around 14 BBY, everything went from bad to worse for Ry and she had to go into hiding, as the Dark Lord Darth Vader was keen on finding her and learning the extent of her progress with the project. Vader wanted to ensure her project was a failure, thereby discrediting her in his master's eyes. After about two years, Vader was convinced that Kyver had somehow passed away as he could no longer detect her once potent Force signature. Ry smirked as she thought about that. How disgusted would Vader be with himself if he ever learned that I was right under his nose on Lianna, even while he was making nice with my boss … Ry was most pleased with herself inwardly when Valles had let it slip about one year earlier regarding her now-cordial relationshipwith the Dark Lord.

Even so, Ry knew well that Valles was expecting results, despite all of her kind gestures and generous compensation. Having her own palace made her a titled woman, and she could now legally refer to herself as "Lady" Kaydo (Kyver privately) and her position and wealth, along with the estate, enabled this distinction. Valles's longer-range goal was to have herself crowned as Lianna's first full-fledged monarch, but in so doing, she was establishing a nobility, with various ranks of peerage to be present at her court once the Throne had been established. Ry would soon be granted a formal title once these had been decided upon. So, it was greatly heartening for Ry to have made the breakthrough she'd long been searching for, and what had made this possible was the hair sample Valles had given her.

Once it was placed under the microscope, it was immediately evident that Valles was made of some rather rare DNA material and the nature of her midichlorians was truly remarkable. Experiments soon proved that these organisms were drawn like a magnet to Valles's unique structural makeup. The Lady had mentioned that she was the product of her grandfather's son and daughter – each of them half-siblings, due to their father having two wives – and thus his DNA came to her through both of them. So the hair sample held the key, but the problem at first was how best to amplify this structure with greater midichlorian density. The first couple of attempts proved it would be a tricky proposition and Ry knew she had to be careful with the sample. The last thing she wanted was to have to ask Valles for more – it wasn't the quantity involved, as the chairlady had a rather full head of glorious black hair that descended almost to her waist – but the embarrassment of having to ask. She felt Valles would become somewhat dubious over the whole proposition and the worst possible outcome would be Lady Santhé starting to hedge her bets. Ry was rapidly rising in Liannese society and was soon to be dubbed a countess or baroness (or the like) and the cachet this would have was most desirable. She was naturally a competitive person and she liked nothing more than to rub her rivals' noses in her newfound success and position. Losing the Chairlady's confidence would sink that faster than a lead balloon.

But in the past few months, the experiments met with continued success. Ry was able to amplify Valles's midichlorian fourfold and even fivefold, and with no discernable deterioration over an eight-week period. She knew that Valles – perhaps the most intelligent person she'd ever worked with – would easily grasp the significance of these results. A key finding was the realization that the work she'd done in the past was in no way analogous to what was taking place now. Then, she had tried to induce midichlorian amplification to organisms not particularly Force-sensitive – a series of small groups of cultured cells – but got no results. However, when trying similar techniques with Valles's hair samples (albeit an admittedly small part of them), it was like stepping on a car's accelerator pedal. The increased midichlorian "fuel" was easily absorbed. Ry had wondered what the capacity for this was, and indeed, she wanted to ensure that her boss's expectations were not raised unnecessarily, so she carried out the experimentation most deliberately. She knew she might not get another chance, so this one really had to count. Valles seemed to understand that things like this took time and she didn't seem to be in much of a hurry. So many other things were on her plate, that she had to compartmentalize her day and make use of each block of time. It seemed Valles slept very little – she was up before dawn and often slept in her office suite after returning from one gala or party after another. The Lady was essentially "non-stop" and had reached her exalted position by continually out-working anyone and everyone. Ry thought of her with a certain pride: Valles is truly a force of nature, nothing seems to slow her down, and she never seems even a little bit tired. Rarely does the mask ever slip and the face she presents is always upbeat and cheery. How does she do it…?

Ry sent a communique to Valles telling her the following:

My Lady, I have the news you've been waiting for … three long years and it's finally here. See you soon.

With love, Ry.

Lianna, The Santhé Tower, 6 BBY 11 months, 10 days, 17 hours

It had been another typical day for Valles. After a packed morning schedule, which featured an hour-long Board meeting where she laid down her expectations for Santhé Corp's performance over the next two quarters, she then had a series of 15-minute appointments with key subordinates. What had once been a contentious session as she worked her way into the CEO position – due to her grandpa's desire to allow a lively "give and take" that allowed him to make better decisions in his mind – had now become almost a rubber stamp as she wanted no hindrances to the carrying out of her grand design. Valles had seen to it that the Board seats that had been vacated – due to disillusionment with her authoritarian style – were filled with obsequious loyalists that valued their salary and perks too much to ever question her stated direction for the company. But still, she had a seeming fondness for hearing her own voice and the male members of her executive suite were mostly enthralled with her very presence, so things tended to go the way she wanted.

During a light lunch at her desk with her ever-faithful personal assistant, Miss Lasivia, she expounded on her continuing vision for the company and for Lianna as a whole. As the two of them crunched their salads, Valles mentioned another initiative.

"My dear, have you completed that write-up for my overture to the Hapes Cluster? Queen Vestalia seems most receptive to us."

"Ah, yes, my Lady. I'm ready for your review. The Hapians don't seem to move very fast."

Valles chuckled. "And why should they? Everything stops and starts according to Vestalia's every whim. I was so impressed at how she had her fingers on the pulse of everything in that wonderful sector. A model to be emulated, I should think."

"Yes, my Lady. The Queen is a most gracious individual. She even put in a kind word for me."

"Oh? What did she say …?"

"That I am a most dedicated and competent confidant."

Valles threw back her head and laughed. "Oh, indeed you are, my dear. I simply hope that I can keep you intrigued enough to stay with me."

"Valles! Wherever would I go? Each of your victories I see as my own. My Lady, you are simply the best person to work for in the whole galaxy."

"Well, thank you. Now, let me see that draft …"

A few minutes later, Valles's com device lit up with Ry's short note. Perusing it for a second, she tapped out a reply:

My dear Ry … looking forward to it. I do hope you've brought me good news.

Lianna, The Santhé Tower, 6 BBY 11 months, 10 days, 19 hours

Ry Kyver's shuttle from Pasmin had arrived in-system and was given clearance to dock at Valles's private landing platform at the top of the Tower. Lady Kyver was most eager to meet with her boss – after an absence of about three months, during which she toiled tirelessly to carry out various assignments for the Chairlady. She had dolled herself up in a fabulous red satin gown with a short train, plus a small silvery diamond-studded tiara, which allowed her curly mane to protrude in a pleasing way. Over the gown was a matching robe of Pasminian goat fur. Checking herself in the mirror for a second, Ry smirked and snapped her head forward, certain she would make a grand entrance that would impress the Chairlady.

As she entered the main office, there stood Valles in a glittering black gown, with a two-metre train behind her. Her hair was done up in a huge pile atop her head and the Lady also had on a crown of sorts. As Ry approached, she curtsied, then kissed Valles's extended right hand.

"How ravishing you look, my Lady," Ry gushed.

Valles simply smiled. "As do you, my dear. I think we make quite the pair … might you help me with my robe?"

Ry laughed. "My pleasure, Valles. I've missed you." She proceeded to drape Valles's luxurious teal-blue robe over the Chairlady's narrow shoulders, then stood back, admiring it. "As always, my Lady, you command the attention."

Valles chuckled. "I've been quite intrigued … since receiving your text. Three long years …" she exhaled and smiled, radiantly. She then looked at Ry, who seemed to be awaiting her boss's direction. Valles took the cue.

"Well, then. Might we have a little to nosh on? Let's head downstairs for a private head-to-head. Good news ought to be celebrated in an appropriate manner."

"Lead the way, my Lady," Ry grinned.

They sauntered over to the lift, as one of the receptionists held the door open for them.

"To the club," Valles said softly to the gold-jacketed attendant, who simply pressed a button.

The car took them down to the 189th level, whereupon the door slid open and the attendant bowed deeply as he held it for Valles and Ry. "Have a wonderful evening, my ladies."

They sauntered in, Ry carrying herself with a certain swag, smirking, and snapping her head just so. She knew she looked fabulous and she felt that way too. This was sure to be a night of triumph for her.

About five metres in, they could hear the sound of soft jazz-like music being played by a three-person combo. The maître d' greeted them.

"Ah, Lady Kaydo, how ravishing you are tonight," he gushed.

Ry smiled. She'd become a regular at the club and had helped to audition musicians to play there.

"And … it's her magnificence, Chairlady Santhé herself. This surely is an evening to remember."

Valles laughed out loud. "Good to see you, sir, how is the missus?"

"Quite well, my Lady … thank you for asking."

Valles whispered to Ry as they were shown to her usual table. "His wife had a difficult spinal operation, recently. But I'd heard she pulled through."

Ry simply smiled. Again, Valles never misses a beat. To think she remembers details about various staffers, and has the personal touch. One can learn much from her.

As they sat, Valles quickly ordered. "A bottle of Corp-sec violet bubbly, and some ton cru parfait, if you please."

Within a minute the order had arrived, and Ry took the occasion to pour the wine. Valles looked over the fileted raw fish, that was served with a tart mustard-like spread.

"Most exquisite, my dear," she purred as she popped a bite into her mouth, then raised her glass to toast. "To Lianna, and our greater glory."

"To Lianna!" Ry replied.

They both took a sip.

"Oh, outstanding …" Ry noted. This kind of high-life was becoming more common for her, but to share it with Valles, in full view of Liannese society – the Tower Club always had a distinguished clientele, as the table charges started at 2500 credits – was surely a coup.

"So what do you have for me?" Valles perked up with a giggle, as she stared at Ry.

"My Lady … you're going to be quite pleased. After all this time, I can say we've cleared the hurdle. It's not only possible to infuse the M-C, they will amplify as well."

"Oh, is that a fact …?" Valles fluttered her eyelashes momentarily, as she played the coquettish ingénue. Internally, her senses were most attuned.

"Yes, Valles, it is. I've spent the past six months perfecting the application … I was almost afraid I would have to ask you for additional samples, but we got it done. Your personal array is quite perfect."

Both of them were discussing the subject in somewhat encoded language, but they understood each other perfectly.

Valles took another sip of the bubbly, as Ry did the same, savoring the dry elegance of the vintage, that had just a hint of oak.

"So, my dear Ry … what is the next step?"

Ry took a deep breath, then exhaled. "That, my Lady, is up to you. I'm unsure of your frame of mind on this."

"What might you say the risks are, to your knowledge?"

"Minimal. The biggest factor is whether we would see the same reaction in you as I saw in the lab, but I feel reasonably confident in them."

Valles popped another bite of the fish into her mouth and swallowed it. "How, exactly, might we proceed?"

"I think the best way would be either on your tongue or perhaps up your nose. The warmth of your body in those areas would be most conducive to the spread of the M-C. We would observe the reaction in you at regular intervals, and then reapply as indicated. I just don't know at this time how quickly your internal system would absorb the effects."

"So I must become part of the experiment … hmm … I need to consider this carefully."

As Ry patiently waited, Valles was a touch embarrassed – truly an unusual circumstance for her to be in. After an awkward silence, her eyes dilated and she simply said, nervously, "Oh, I can't seem to get my words out … oh, dear me."

Ry had become familiar enough with Valles to observe one rather important unwritten rule – never attempt a Force probe of her unless it was explicitly invited.

Valles, for her part, was deep in thought, while still projecting an innocent air. Has it come at last? Grandpa always told me to recognize an opportunity when it was staring me in the face. I'm certain Ry would never bluff about such things, as she has far too much to lose – not an accident, of course – but I shall soon attain the level of power I will need going forward, and, further, I shall be in a position to understand Palpatine and his every move. Always think big, Grandpa told me, and I am certain he is watching me now.

The rest of the evening went smoothly and Valles even allowed herself to get into a festive mood after the first bottle had been drained. The combo dedicated a song selection to her, which they entitled "Our Queen." After it was complete, Valles had shed her robe and performed a lap dance with the band, whereupon she took the mic and sang a couple of bars of an old Liannese drinking anthem, entitled "Happy Days." It was clear that Valles wanted everyone to know that she had the "common touch" and could be relaxed and informal when the moment called for it.

Ry watched with interest, marveling over how easily her boss could switch moods and adopt whatever personality was called for at seemingly any given time. She thought back over how far she had come in the six years since she had been abducted by bounty hunter Cad Bane and brought to Lianna in the dead of night. Valles had come to her hospital room a few days later and started working her charms almost immediately. Almost like a guardian angel, Valles had taken her under her wing and everything started to come together.

Felucia, The Assembly Hall, 6 BBY 9 months, 20 days, 12 hours

One day, Maris staged an elimination tournament in the Arena among the acolytes. Leaving out those who had been named earlier as Padawan, the more inexperienced among them were given a chance to show what they had learned in lightsabre combat. All 23 of them were entered into the competition and would stage a grueling best-of-three format duel series in round-robin competition. The battles were expected to last over a period of seven days and the Felucian heat was often the victor. As she walked around, observing the matches, Maris offered praise at times when she saw moves that were deftly executed. When the first day's matches had ended, she called the groups to follow her back into the Assembly Hall, then gave a short address to them.

"Everyone, I'm loving the work I saw you all putting in out there. Whosoever wins this tournament will have proven to be a fine swordsman and you will surely be recognized by Master Shaak for your abilities. All of you have been giving us some fine effort and we all know how only continued work can turn a rock into a diamond. The environment here is harsh and it enables a warrior to reach peak condition sooner than elsewhere. Someday, I expect many of you to become Knights of the Order like I am and we will have that time to celebrate. All right, everyone, on three: one, two, u-ah! ka-bah!"

The group shouted in unison following Maris's lead. Hearing the shouts, Shaak came out of her office and watched quietly. As the group broke up, with some going to get lunch in the new dining facility, Shaak came to Maris from behind and put her hand on the Zabrak's shoulder. Feeling the presence of her master, Maris relaxed and turned her head around to catch sight of her. As she did, Shaak moved in front to face her.

"I see you have implemented some of the ideas I gave you."

"Yes, Master Shaak. I think it's going to work out well. I can see these exercises as a way to promote team-building."

"I'm pleased. The team is coming together nicely. When you honor the winner, I will be there to watch, but only quietly."

"I understand, master. The performance should not be unnecessarily influenced."

Shaak nodded, and started to walk toward the exit, giving a strong sense that Maris should follow her, but without saying anything. Maris was fairly attuned to her master's unspoken cues and Shaak was often in the habit of saying very few open words. Shaak Ti often "spoke" via the Force, in a great number of ways. The fact that she saw Maris as having become sufficiently advanced was paying a great tribute to her apprentice of now over twelve years. The Zabrak followed Shaak for about a hundred metres into the Felucian forest, and they came to a small clearing.

Shaak turned around and faced her with a smile, putting her hands on each of Maris's shoulders. A subtle surge of energy followed, which was warm and inviting – nothing new here, but it seemed a change, perhaps an evolution had come over the Togruta Master which Maris found intriguing. The Zabrak remained silent, waiting for Shaak to make the next move. She then spoke.

"Maris, I think it is time for you to take the next steps. First, I want to see how well you have synthesized the power of Force electricity. It's been about two years, and I should think that if you were going to be skilled in this area, you would now have a strong sense of how to use it."

Maris nodded, and then aimed both her hands in front her, directing a small current of about 2kW at a tree, then gradually increasing the power, which caused the base of the tree to turn slightly orange in color. Feeling the strain, Maris then ceased the current flow and glanced at Shaak. Her master then nodded in return.

"Hold still." Shaak then unleashed a strong blast of at least 50kW on her apprentice, but only for about 10 seconds, which the Zabrak absorbed fairly well. When it stopped, she gave a sigh and took a deep breath.

"How do you feel?" Shaak asked softly.

"I'm OK … a little tingly, though," Maris stated plainly.

"Good. That was a pretty good shot I just gave you. Most Jedi were not going to be able to handle it."

"So …" Maris started. "Why were the Jedi opposed to this power?"

"Well … it's mostly because they believed the only way to channel it was to embrace the Dark Side fully, to give in to hate and anger, but … do you feel either of those emotions right now?"

"No, master. But I would like to gain this power. I can be of even more use to you, do you agree?"

"Mm hmm," Shaak chuckled. "That you will. But this power is a grave responsibility, and I am granting it to you because I feel you have now earned a promotion – to second level Knight."

Maris curtsied before Shaak, something she didn't do for anyone else, but inwardly, she was quite pleased. It had been nearly six long years since her first granting of Knighthood status and Shaak had not yet seen fit to confer it on anyone else, although the three Padawans were all nearing the third level, which was the final step before Knighthood.

"Thank you, Master Shaak. I am honored. But might I ask you one thing?"

"You may."

"Back in the Jedi Order, were there distinctions between Knighthood levels?"

"Not formally, but we in the Council had some general idea of who might be reaching consideration for Master status. Each individual was considered separately. I was a Knight for over 12 years before I reached it, and was told that my rise was rather rapid."

"I'm not surprised in the least, Master. You have always seemed so wise. But what do you see next for me?"

"Continue to work on Force electricity. I want you to eventually have the same level of control and dispassion with it that I do. Your power base will be gradually raised over the years to come until you yourself become a Master."

Maris again felt humbled. "So you think I can reach that?"

"I absolutely do, but it's still years away."

Shaak then sat on the ground and spread her robe behind her. Despite the heat and humidity of Felucia, she seemed oblivious to it and reveled in the silk and velvet garments she always wore, ones that she had fashioned herself via complex processes. She glanced up at Maris and nodded in a quick motion. Maris took this as her cue to seat herself opposite Shaak. As they settled in, Shaak raised both hands to point upwards at a low 30º angle. She then recited some words in the Togruta language and the skies above seemed to darken somewhat. Maris felt a change in the air, as it turned into a gentle breeze, but kept her eyes open and her gaze level, meeting her master's now peaceful dark blue eyes. More of the mysterious chant followed. For about five minutes, they both sat motionless, then Shaak broke the spell and the sky was lighter and the air had stilled.

"Maris, I now have another lesson and exercise for you. This pertains to your Force Signature. As you know, we can often detect each other from far away by knowing each other's signature – a special and unique way the Force recognizes us."

"Yes, I've learned to do that from close range or from planetary orbit."

"Right. What I'm going to cover today is a way of preventing someone else from doing that. This is critical if we are to be able to move about the Galaxy freely. Both Sidious and Vader should not be able to detect us."

Maris nodded, her expression blank.

"Maris, I was a bit concerned when you described your encounter with the Inquisitors awhile back. I felt the one that got away might have reported your activity to Vader … but, as near as I can tell, he did not."

"Why is that, Master?"

"Vader tends to take a dim view of failure by his subordinates. If he were to learn that you and Maul killed two of their numbers, he'd be combing the Galaxy looking for you."

"So I caught a break, then …"

"Perhaps. But I don't like leaving anything to chance. We are far from the time when we can reveal ourselves to the Emperor – or the Galaxy at large."

Maris simply nodded, then asked, "all right, so … how would I go about hiding my Force signature?"

"It's not so much hiding it, but rather sending out a different wave via the Force. It's not an easy exercise but the technique can be learned via meditation. I'm going to give you some introductory material and put it in a holocron that I've been creating just for you."

"Really … I never thought I would have my own holocron, but I can see how it might be helpful."

"Every Jedi Knight should have one, but too many of them did not see the need. For you, it will serve as a good study guide, and some of Varda's knowledge can go in there, and, of course, your own. Think of all the things you've learned over the twelve years or so we've been together. All the valuable teaching you've given the acolytes – and the Padawans."

Maris nodded again. "You're right, Master. It's actually quite a large amount of knowledge. But now I need to organize what I've learned about the Force."

With that, Shaak rose to her feet and Maris soon followed. The master patted her on one shoulder, and turned to go.

"Enjoy your afternoon and the continued competitions, we're going on a trip together soon."

Lianna, The City, 6 BBY 9 months, 5 days, 6 hours

Valles Santhé arose early, as was her custom, and called Ry to come to her office. When she arrived, she saw the boss dressed in a smart-looking black leather one-piece outfit that fit every contour of her diminutive but elegant figure. Her dark mane was pulled into twin pigtails that went halfway down her back.

"Good morning, my Lady," she greeted cheerfully.

"Ah, my dear Ry, glad you could make it. I do hope I haven't roused you from a deep and satisfying slumber," the Chairlady chuckled.

Ry laughed. "Oh, not at all, Valles. Sometimes it's nice to get up early. What's the plan?"

"We're going to take a little trip today. I feel like exercising my piloting skills as part of it."

"Lead the way, my Lady."

Ry silently thanked herself she wasn't wearing a pretty dress this day, as she followed Valles from her office and toward the landing platform. Waiting for them was a TIE Defender series starfighter, with its sharp lines and three-paneled wing surfaces. This version was painted in a deep blue shade. Valles led them onto the ship and they climbed into the cockpit (which seated two) together.

"This looks fast," Ry noted, carefully observing Valles, who seemed to be quite familiar with the craft as she started flipping a series of switches and was checking the pre-launch sequence.

"I'd recommend you strap yourself in, Ry. This thing really moves."

Lady Kyver grunted her assent, now fully interested to see what kind of pilot Valles was. She sure seems at home at the controls – whenever does she find time to do this?

Valles took the com and spoke a few words. "I'll be heading out for a few hours."

A scratchy reply came over the speaker and Valles engaged the engines and the ship slid away from the Tower. Once clear, she fired it up and they shot away from city, heading for orbit. Ry peered out the expansive windows and marveled at the extreme speed as the g-forces pinned her to the seat.

"You weren't kidding, Valles. Wow!"

Soon the ship had orbited halfway around Lianna in just under 15 minutes. Coming into view was a huge platform, that Ry knew was part of Santhé-Sienar's orbital shipbuilding complex. The platform stretched for over 1000 km and was one of three such facilities, each employing over one million Liannese in various functions. Valles brought the ship in for a smooth manual landing, shunning the offered tractor beam. Those on board the platform knew immediately that it was her, and Valles's skills were greatly appreciated, because if the "queen" had the ability to handle a precision fighter like the TIE Defender, it meant she would better understand what it took to produce the craft.

About one minute later, Valles had brought the ship to halt on the landing platform. Attendants surrounded it quickly and were applauding as she popped the hatch open and emerged, grinning. She extended her hands and they quickly helped her up and out of the ship and onto the platform. Soon, Ry was being helped out as well. Also appearing was the platform administrator, who tipped his cap and bowed low to both of them.

"Well, my Lady, what did you think? Have we made the adjustments you specified to your satisfaction?"

"I should say so," she replied. "It's almost a pity, to have to send these beauties off to war and have them be fired upon by the Rebels …"

She turned to Ry. "I'm going to give you a short tour of the facility, so you may get an idea of what the weapons division of our enterprise actually does."

Ry nodded. "I'd love that, Valles …"

For the next half hour, Ry and Valles rode together on a small touring car that carried them along the length of the platform, sometimes at super-sonic speeds to cover distance quickly. Ry was shown various stages of ship-building, including cruisers and command portions of ISD and SSD for Imperial contracts. There was also another portion of the facility that was building some highly-secret components for something called "XS-1" and Valles quietly informed Ry that it was slated to be part of a weapons-control system for a large space station that was being constructed elsewhere in the Galaxy.

"I can't tell you more than that," she chuckled. "At least not publicly. But this project has been in the works since my early days at Santhé-Sienar."

When the tour was over, they boarded a Santhé Corp shuttle that was appointed with high luxury and was only for use by top managers of the Company. Valles led Ry into an elegant lounge with soft leather seating and they flopped down.

"Would you care for a drink, perhaps?" Valles chuckled softly.

Ry looked around. "Why not?" She laughed in response. "Nice shuttle you've got here, boss. Swanky."

"I prefer to say … civilized. How about some cognac?"

"Don't mind if I do."

Valles touched her com device, then tapped out a selection. Within a couple of minutes, a white-jacketed attendant brought a couple of tall, thin glasses, along with a bowl of mixed nuts.

Valles raised her glass. "To possibilities …"

"Yes, exactly. Possibilities." Ry chuckled in response, then sipped the aperitif. "Ooh, this is nice, quite smooth, but with just a little bite."

Valles laughed. "Don't expect me to drink like my grandpa. I like a little nip here and there."

Ry sat back, enjoying the moment. It's always like this wherever she goes. Everyone wants to please her and more or less, everyone does.

"Where are we headed … this time, Valles?"

As she could hear the soft muffled roar of the engines, Valles answered her.

"To visit some friends."

Felucia, Shaak's home, 6 BBY 8 months, 27 days

Maris was summoned via the Force to Shaak's home, a few weeks after her promotion to Knight second level. Greeting her apprentice at the door, she asked, simply, "have you made much progress in your Force signature study?"

Maris had to be honest. "I don't think so, Master. Some of that stuff is a bit complex."

Shaak laughed softly. "I suppose it is, so it's time we took that trip I mentioned a while back."

"Where are we going?"

"It's about one hour and a half away, on the northeast outer rim. Are you familiar with Malachor?"

"I've heard of it. It doesn't have the best reputation."

"You could say that, but we're going to pay it a visit. There is something I want to show you there."

Maris said nothing, but figured it must be important if Shaak wanted to take the trouble to bring both of them there. Shaak simply donned one of her black velvet robes, over her usual loose-fitting silk gown, this one in dark blue. Maris then asked, "Are we leaving now? If so, I need to change …"

"Take your time, dear. We're not under any particular schedule."

"What about Varda? Does she …"

"She knows, yes. She'll be in charge while we're gone. Felucia will be in good hands."

"All right, Master Shaak, I'll be right back."

Maris walked briskly back to her home, as her mind was spinning. When she arrived, Varda was at the door and showing her in.

"I've made something good for your dinner, dear …" the older Knight said softly.

"Oh, it smells good too. But I've got to eat and run. The Master is taking me to Malachor."

Varda chuckled at that mention. "Hmm, that sounds interesting. I'm sure Shaak knows what she's doing."

"I hope so," Maris laughed. "So what's for dinner?"

"A stew – made the Zabrak way that you taught me."

"Not rancor meat, I hope."

"Mmn mm … that would take all day. Nope, this is a tasty terrapin I found down along the riverbed."

"That's near the vault … oh, I didn't know you could …" Maris half-chuckled.

"You'll love it, trust me …"

Issagra, Corporate Sector, NE Outer Rim, 6 BBY 9 months, 4 days

The elegant Santhé Corporation shuttle arrived at a large space station orbiting the planet Issagra, in the Corporate Sector. After they came in for a landing at the designated platform, the Santhé Corp "personal assistants" were in evidence as Valles and Ry debarked. Soon they were joined by a few men in uniform, though Ry was unfamiliar with the design, which was mostly in a dark blue. They appeared to be officers and each wore a white cap with a short visor.

"Right this way, ladies," the leader of the group remarked.

Valles glanced at Ry, who seemed a bit unsure of the situation, but soon they were met by another officer, a dark-complexioned man who carried himself with an air of confidence.

"So you're Valles Santhé … I've heard so much about you and I was hoping to meet you someday."

"All good, I hope," she responded, with a twinkle in her eye. "But, I'm at a disadvantage … whom do I have the pleasure?"

"Ah, milady, I am Lando Calrissian, the administrator of this facility, at your service."

He bowed deeply and doffed his cap.

"Cal-riss-i-an …" Valles repeated slowly. "And what, exactly, is your position here? Are you with the Corporate Sector Authority?"

"I am, my Lady."

"Very well, then. I have an appointment with someone in that leadership. A Mister Sloane …"

"Oh, yes. I know him well. I can take you to him."

"I would prefer he come to me … if he's the man I think he is, he will see the opportunity – as will you."

Lando thought it over for a second. "Correct, my Lady." Noticing Ry, he inquired, "And who might this lovely associate of yours be?"

Ry laughed at the man's attempt at courtliness. "I'm Lady Sen Kaydo, Santhé Corp Director of Planetary Engineering."

"Among other things …" Valles added with a chuckle. She then started walking back to the shuttle and everyone dutifully followed. Lando nodded, with a smirk, as he entered the lounge.

"Well, the Santhé people travel in style …"

"But of course …" Valles giggled, as she took the bands off her pigtails and let her perfume flow freely.

As they took their seats, General Baruch Sloane arrived, attired in a navy-blue uniform, and sporting various insignia.

Valles and Ry both rose to greet him, as he bowed slightly, lowering his head and shoulders slightly.

"Pleased to meet you, Chairlady Santhé. What brings you to Issagra?"

Valles smiled as she sat back down, then gestured to an empty chair.

"General Sloane. It has come to my attention that the relationship between my firm and the Corporate Sector Authority is becoming more … enhanced … shall we say. Considering your status as a valued customer and our desire for a more inclusive role in sector affairs, we are prepared to make a sizable further investment in that relationship …"

Sloane thought it over. He was actually unaware of how much Santhé Corp already quietly controlled in the sector, but Valles had been steadily buying shares of several of the leading technology and logistics firms that were headquartered there. Firms like Tirsa Space Development, and Lythos Agro – names not known beyond the sector except by other savvy investors but Valles was always keeping up on markets in areas where she wanted to extend her reach. Santhé's recent acquisition and consolidation in the sectors surrounding Lianna were giving her increased leverage, and to top it off, the Hospitality division was branching out heavily into gaming with the development of Cantonica and Vaynai.

Valles's accounts were swelling, with billions of credits seemingly pouring in every month and she wanted to put that money to work. It seemed that there was also no shortage of those who wanted to get in on her action, but she shrewdly prevented the issuance of more than just a small portion of equity in her firm. There had been two recent Initial Public Offerings on the Lianna City exchange and these were quickly bid up by buyers desperately wanting to be part of whatever "magic" she had.

Finally, his answer came. "Chairlady Santhé – we will do whatever we can to help you. The Santhé organization has a sterling reputation and we are looking forward to the coming construction of shipbuilding facilities in our sector. The TIE line is well known and we have a joint effort with the Galactic Empire to aid in the security setup for the Northeast Outer Rim."

"Very well, then," Valles chuckled. "My people will be reaching out to you in the days to come. We will be planning an orbital development around Kalla. Our friend Moff Tarkin is involved with the project."

Kalla was a centrally located world in the Corporate Sector, which lay along a key hyperspace lane direct from Lianna, a lane that Kerred Santhé had pioneered almost 100 years earlier. The lane had the unique name of the Shalteen Tunnels, so named after a lovely princess from Raxus that had struck Kerred's favor years before he later married the two women who would separately give birth to each of Valles's parents. Princess Shalteen had many suitors, but Kerred's piloting ability and his fighting skills – which included lightsabre combat, though he was never associated with the Jedi – won her over and their romance burned hot for over a decade. Valles sighed while recalling her first learning of this from the Santhé family holocron that her grandfather had left her. Kerred had also forged an alliance of sorts a century ago with the Kallians, who helped him further develop the Santhé organization. Grandpa, you were quite the dashing man about the Galaxy in those days. I'm so proud to have come from you.

Valles and Ry both rose, as did Lando and Baruch. The men gracefully kissed Valles's right hand when she offered it and soon a couple of agreements were signed. Lando inwardly thanked his luck on how things were going with his new venture in the Corporate Sector. It seemed that the Empire was actually helping to clean things up as syndicate activity was being driven underground and Lando was an adroit broker of various deals that were netting him a tidy profit. Baruch Sloane was, unbeknownst to Valles, a cousin of Imperial Captain Rae Sloane from the Core world of Ganthel.

As the men left, Valles whispered to Ry, "I want you to oversee some of how this goes in around Kalla. There's an opening for the Hospitality division on that planet too. We'll build a resort that Imperial brass will want to visit."

"Sure, boss," Ry chuckled. "I see the bigger picture here. We're going to slowly come to dominate here."

"And you, my friend, are going to reap your share of the rewards, dear Lady Kyver."

Malachor, 6 BBY 8 months, 25 days

The starship Intrepid III arrived on the planet Malachor and it seemed to Maris to be a very dimly lit world, or perhaps it was almost dusk where Shaak decided to land. Immediately, her ship's sensors detected a Force presence and she pointed this out to Maris.

"I think we know who this is, do we not?"

Maris reached out, trying to get the feel. "Sure, it's my friend Maul. So this is where he ended up."

Shaak chuckled softly. "And what would you like to do, my child?"

"I'd like to know why he's here. This doesn't seem like a hospitable place to live, but he's resourceful and likely has found a way to survive."

Shaak fingered her chin with her right hand, then placed her thumb just beneath the tip of it, running it across a couple of times.

"He's got something else in mind, Maris. I've studied this place for a bit. It's mentioned on two of the holocrons. There is some interesting history here."

"OK, what have you learned about it, Master?"

"That the Jedi and Mandalorians fought here almost 4000 years ago, and that the Jedi Master – a man named Revan used a horrific weapon called the mass shadow generator to kill their enemies, but in so doing, were corrupted by the Dark Side. Revan later became a Sith lord."

"Sounds like Anakin Skywalker becoming Vader," Maris noted.

"True, but from what I have learned, Revan was far more powerful than Vader. But no matter. This is what can happen when you are tempted by the easy answers the Dark Side has to offer."

"So do you think this has something to do with why Maul is here now? Is he looking for those answers?"

"I think we have to consider it. While we were circling the planet, I came upon a most interesting discovery."

"Which was?"

Shaak took a deep breath and exhaled. "Just beneath the surface, there are the remains of an ancient temple, which, I have read, contained a library and many secrets of the Sith."

Maris grew more interested. "Do you think this Revan knew about that and wanted that power for himself – I've heard of other Jedi Masters being corrupted, like your old master Count Dooku."

"Yes, Maris, it seems a distinct possibility."

"What should we do about Maul?"

"It seems that he is hoping for your return, I would gather. He spoke of gaining revenge against the Sith, with you as his accomplice. If the knowledge he seeks is here, we will have to stop him."

Maris thought this over, then replied. "I wonder if he would have turned against me, later, should I have joined him. It's supposedly rare that Dark Side Force users work together for long."

"A shrewd observation, my child."

"So what should I do, now?"

"Draw him out and I shall monitor what takes place. He will not detect me, because Intrepid has the ability to conceal anyone's Force signature when that individual is aboard."

"Therefore, he doesn't know I'm here … yet."

"Yes, my child, but I can detect him. And, he will soon be here."

"What do you want me to do, Master?"

"Engage him. I will cloak the ship and maintain position. Signal me if you need me. Proceed in that direction." Shaak pointed through the viewport. Maris nodded.

"I assume you will know what we discussed."

"Correct."

Maris then set out on foot in the direction Shaak instructed her to go in. Soon, she came to a series of rock outcroppings, and, as she climbed up, she saw a large area that appeared to be some kind of crater. A series of monoliths were standing upright roughly twenty metres or so distance apart. She examined one of them, and quickly noticed the ancient writing. Reaching out with her right hand caused an area of the pillar to turn red. Instinctively, Maris knew better than to touch it but she started to deduce the writing. It seemed the Force was translating it for her, and Maris heard a voice – a clearly female voice – telling her the following: My child, reach out for the power you seek. Nothing will stand in your way.

"Who are you?" Maris asked softly, feeling only curiosity and no fear.

I am Darth Traya – your new teacher. Come with me …

Maris paused for a second, needing to think this over. This isn't like anything Master Shaak discussed with me.

She didn't have long to think, however, because she soon heard a familiar voice.

"Ah, Lady Brood, I had hoped you would find this place."

Maris, startled for a second, spun around to see Maul, only he looked somewhat emaciated, as if he hadn't eaten in days.

"Paul … my friend. It's good to see you, again. What exactly is this place?"

He chuckled, but only slightly. "It is a place of great power … but only by working together, we can unlock it."

Maul then stepped forward to the monolith and placed his palm on it. Soon it turned bright red and the floor beneath them gave way. Maris slowed her descent via the Force and realized she was in a sort of cavern. She also realized that it was the remains of the ancient temple Shaak had mentioned earlier. She looked over at Maul, who was smiling broadly.

"Come with me," he beckoned, and Maris soon followed.

To be continued …