AN: This part of the story runs alongside chapters 42-44 of Ahsoka and the Rebellion.

Thanks to new followers: Kyrotica, Austin Morgan

Chapter 44: Always Keep One Eye Open

Lianna, Livornia District, Ana's palace, 0 ABY 9 months, 21 days, 9 hours

Ahsoka Tano, using a special clearance code given to her by Liannese Queen Valles, asked for permission to land in the Livornia District, which was located on the planet's equator. She was piloting her ship Corvala Dawn and was carrying out Shaak's request to work with Ana and Ry on the changes to Felucia and Malachor. She opened the ship's communication band and located Ana's estate, then sent a signal.

"Hello, this is Master Tano, I have an appointment with the Duchess."

After a few seconds, Ana answered. "Greetings, Ahsoka, I've been expecting you. Welcome to Livornia. I'll flash you the landing code. You'll land on the north side of the palace, which is near the lake. There are a couple of shuttle craft on the ground presently. You should have no trouble locating it."

"Thank you, your highness."

Ahsoka soon received the "flash", an infra-red signal that her ship immediately keyed onto. Her astromech R8-ND took over, and soon they were down. Ahsoka changed into a light green sleeveless silk dress, as she realized this was a warm area on the planet. The instruments showed the air temperature to be about 32 degrees (Celsius), and, as the ship's hatch opened and the gangplank extended, Ahsoka stepped out of the ship and looked around. The sky was a clear turquoise and the sun was rising in the east. It promised to be a hot day in Livornia, but the air was pleasantly dry. She gazed at the palace, a five-story structure in lovely white marble, that had several blueish accents in various places around the building. How beautiful. The Duchess has excellent taste, but Shaak gave me that impression about her already.

Soon, Ana emerged, smiling, with her shoulder-length black hair hanging freely. The Duchess was in a light orange silk gown, Behind her was Ry Kyver, someone Ahsoka knew but had not seen in almost thirteen years. There was something different about Ry now, a quiet confidence on her face as she smiled at Ahsoka. She was in pale blue silk, and it seemed her complexion was a shade darker than Ahsoka had remembered. Ah, Ry, life seems to be treating you well here.

"Pleased to meet you, Ahsoka," Ana said softly, giving a slight curtsy, which the Togruta quickly returned, somewhat surprised to being shown deference from a high-ranking noble on a most prosperous planet. Ry simply nodded, a smirk on her face. Ahsoka smiled and turned to her.

"Hello, Ry. It's been a while."

"Yes, it has, Ahsoka. I'm sure you have plenty of questions."

Ana broke in. "Might I interest you in some breakfast? We can talk inside."

Ahsoka smiled back. "Sure."

Ry then noted, "Ana is one of the most successful growers of fruit in all of Lianna. Eating here is a rare treat."

Ahsoka laughed. "Okay …"

This is going to be interesting.

The three of them stepped inside, Ana leading the way. They rode the lift to the top floor and then proceeded to Ana's private suite, then to a shaded space on the outdoor terrace, overlooking the lake in the near distance. The rays of Kyall reflected off the water and it was quite picturesque.

"I must say, Ana, you have a beautiful estate. If this were my home, I'd likely see little reason to leave it."

"Thank you, Ahsoka. We take great pride in it. This building is only six years old, but my other estate in Livornia goes back almost two hundred years … we keep them both well maintained."

The Duchess then offered her guest a bean cake with honey and some assorted citrus fruits.

"Everything is either grown or made right here on our estate. I am a supplier to some of the finest restaurants in the City."

Ahsoka took a couple of bites. "Delicious! And so subtle. Your chef is to be commended."

"I'll tell him …" Ana smiled. Her dark eyes flashed and Ahsoka found her to be a most pleasant hostess. Ahsoka then glanced at Ry, who was keeping silent. Ana picked up on the vibe between them, and decided to keep things from getting awkward.

"Ry, here, is the Countess of Kiveria. She's held the position for a few years and is quite in the favor of Her Majesty."
"You mean, Valles?" Ahsoka asked, with a chuckle. "I've come to know her and we're friends."

"That's right," Ry answered. "She's become the Queen here, over the past year. It seems we all have that in common, I mean, being friends of Valles."

Ana smiled, again. "So, Ahsoka, I may assume that Master Shaak has put you in oversight of our planetary engineering projects?"

"You may."

"Good, so Ry is the one heading up this effort. She's quite the expert on the subject. I got the feeling that Shaak trusts her and has given the go-ahead …"

"Yes." Ahsoka then looked at Ry. "Where do you want to start?"

Ry chuckled, "I figured we could take a trip to Malachor first. Ana will accompany us as she has been given dominion over that planet – and Felucia – by the Queen."

"Oh, really?" Ahsoka partially gasped. I do hope Mother is aware of this …

"We'll go in my yacht," Ana added. "Your ship should be able to dock with it. Then we might use it as a shuttle for when we're on both planets."

Ahsoka noted inwardly how quickly Ana took charge of things, and her attitude that, once she said something, it was more or less a fait accompli. She carefully reached out with the Force and attempted to scan Ana. The Duchess responded silently and allowed her in. I've nothing to hide, Master Tano.

Ahsoka's response was gracious. My apologies, Ana, but I like to get to know someone on more than one level.

Ana gave her a crafty smile. Understood. I think we're going to get on splendidly.

Ahsoka smiled and cleared her throat. "Sure, that sounds like a plan. I think both of you will appreciate Corvala Dawn as opposed to just any shuttle."

"Yes, you're likely correct, unless, of course, it's the Queen's … she always prefers her own craft whenever possible."

"Anyway," Ry broke in, "I would imagine your time is valuable, Ahsoka. Perhaps we might head for Malachor soon?"

"I'd like that," Ahsoka nodded, then smiled at Ana. She found herself starting to like the elegant Livornian. Doing a Force scan on someone was not always the politest of gestures, but Ana was more than gracious. Of course, due to their earlier experiences, Ahsoka was most curious about Ry. She's a countess already? She's not even one of these people, and yet, they welcomed her openly. There's a story behind that, I'm sure.

For her part, Ry noticed a few things about Ahsoka since their last meeting, sometime in 13 BBY. Her lekku had grown considerably, a normal process for her species, but she also seemed much more serious than before. I get the feeling we've both been through some difficult times, but now she's Shaak's second-in-command, an important role.

Hyperspace, aboard Ana's yacht Concordia, 0 ABY 9 months 21 days, 12 hours

Once Corvala Dawn had docked with the Concordia II, Ana gave Ahsoka a quick tour of the ship's major facilities. The Togruta was impressed with the standard of luxury that Liannese seemed to have and, more or less, she realized this planet would still play a key role in the Galaxy regardless of whom the occupant on the Imperial throne would be.

Shaak's already informed me of her plans for Valles, so I suppose some of the Queen's most trusted underlings will carry some weight. Ana seems nice, however, despite her easy familiarity with power and wealth. As for Ry … however did she wind up on Lianna?

Ahsoka knew those answers could only come from Ry herself, and she wasn't sure how much her old associate might be willing to divulge, but she was willing to wait. The hyperspace lane they were using got them to Malachor in about two hours and they just had time for some tasty citrus tea before they dropped from it and were at the planet. It turns out Ry was willing to tell some of it to Ahsoka. As they were in a small lounge, together with Ana, the Togruta asked:

"So, Ry, however did you wind up on Lianna? It's certainly turned out well for you."

Ry laughed heartily, throwing her head back, with its numerous curls of dark hair shaking. "Oh, Ahsoka, it's a long story. But I suppose I can tell you. Ana already knows, and the main thing is, I owe it all to Valles."

"Really? How exactly?"

"Well, when I was the Minister of Agriculture for the Empire, Valles had actually contacted the Ministry and asked for me to come to Lianna and meet with her. She wanted to discuss some of the ideas I had for increasing the efficiency of their agriculture. I think I must have impressed her because she wanted a follow-up meeting with me – but I was never able to attend it … due to other things that happened to me before you and I first met."

Ahsoka nodded, and gave a smirk. "Oh, yes. But it appears you and Valles were eventually able to reconnect."

"Right, and that's because Vader – the one you know as Anakin – had put out a bounty on me. So, eventually I was captured by a bounty hunter that was working for Black Sun."

"Really?" Ahsoka's jaw dropped at this revelation.

"Yes, a guy by the name of Cad Bane. Well, as Valles later told me, the Black Sun Vigo contacted her when he learned about the bounty and thought maybe she would be interested. To make the story short … she was."

"Cad Bane … oh, my. I had a couple of run-ins with him back during the Clone War. He was dangerous and had all kinds of tricks up his sleeve. I hope you weren't hurt, because he messed me up badly at one point."

"Yeah, he was a little rough. By the time he brought me to Lianna, Valles had me sent to the best hospital in the City and they did a good job of fixing me up."

Ahsoka thought this over, then glanced at Ana, who simply shrugged her shoulders, preferring to let Ry tell the story, much of which she already knew. She then asked, "So why didn't you get word back to Varda and I and let us know you were alright? We were worried and we just gave up after a while, thinking the worst."

"Oh," Ry frowned and looked down. "I'm terribly sorry about that. Both of you had done a lot to help me, which, sometimes, I don't think I deserved. But, at first, I was a little bit worried about trying to contact you because I knew Valles was working for the Empire. And she likely thought I was still 'okay' in that sense. Only later did I tell her about Vader. She wanted me to go by an alias at first – which I was more than willing to do."

"I see …" Ahsoka muttered. "Well, at least you're good now. Valles must really like you, to make you a countess and all … so she didn't know it was Vader that put the original bounty on you?"

"No, I didn't want to tell her, because I didn't know her relationship with him. Turns out that was the right call, because she and Vader were friends."

"Is that right?" Ahsoka was more than a little surprised at this detail. "I'll bet there's a lot behind that … you know, when I first met her, she was the nicest person, just so kind and gracious. I liked her immediately, I still do."

"Oh, of course. I feel the same way. Valles is a true queen in every sense of the word. The people on Lianna adore her."

"But Ry, it's hard to understand why she … and Vader … you know?"

"Yeah … well, anyway, Ahsoka, I hope you and Varda can forgive me. I want to help Master Shaak on all of her plans, whatever those turn out to be."

Ahsoka chuckled at that, knowing she was not free to divulge much here, though Valles surely knew the truth.

"I'll just have to let it go. We cannot change the past … Okay, so let's have a look at Malachor."

Felucia, Assembly Hall, Shaak's office, 0 ABY, 9 months, 22 days

The Forager arrived back on Felucia, carrying Maris and Varda. The latter had been away for close to three years, so there was much to go over with her about what had happened in the interim. Shaak, by this time, knew that Maris was bringing her back and was fully prepared to welcome Knight Varda Wahi back into the Order.

As the two of them entered the Master's office, Maris in her normal gear - black boots, rancor-hide tight leggings and minimal bra-top – with Varda in her usual green sari-like silk garment that hung loosely from her shoulders, Shaak rose and greeted them with a wide grin.

"So good to have you back, my friend," the Togruta said evenly, as she and Varda briefly embraced. "I'm sure you have much to tell us … but for now, please have a seat and relax. It's time for you to learn where we are. Much has happened in your time away."

Shaak proceeded to recount all of the major events – Ahsoka's joining the Order and being named as a Master, Maul's death on Tatooine, the run-up to the Death Star's activation and ensuing destruction, the recruiting of Vader to join the Order and his coming transformation back into Anakin, the partnership with Santhé Corp and Valles's support, and finally, Shaak's plan to bring down Palpatine and assume the Imperial throne.

Taking a deep breath, Varda ran over these events in her mind, then asked, "Shaak, are you truly ready to do all of this? I mean, it's a huge task … not that I doubt you can do it."

Shaak laughed. "So much has indeed happened, of which, I can only start to tell you. You'll come to better understand it all after some time … but yes, I know what I have to do, and I have a strong partner in Valles. Without her, I doubt I could pull this off."

"So … Okay." Varda started, then realizing Shaak was waiting patiently for her next question, continued. "Shaak, are you able to tell me what you plan to do to the Emperor, in order to take him down … and … how Valles is going to help you?"

Shaak looked at her calmly. "I'm going to set it up so he doesn't suspect anything … until it's too late. Then he's going to be hit with an ancient Force power – one used by Jedi Grand Masters millennia ago. Up to this point, I've been using psychology to rattle him, cause him to have some doubt."

"How, exactly?"

"Varda, you remember when I told you and Maris about the system we have to monitor the goings-on in the Imperial Palace?"

"Yes, of course. After all this time, I would expect that you have learned much through it."

"Indeed, but more than that, it is now a two-way system. I am able to send messages using it to communicate to whomever is there. These are usually coded, but in a language that he is able to translate. I've been using it to throw doubt into his mind."

Varda took a deep breath, then chuckled. "Tell me more."

"Well, one area has been our ability to knock out Imperial capital ships. We use another old process called Circle of Light."

"Hmm, I don't remember that one."

"You wouldn't. It's a power that only Jedi Masters were allowed to learn of. Very few of us gained proficiency in it, and no one from the current-day Jedi Order. What it does is to allow a high-level Force practitioner to send energy waves in a circular or elliptical pattern and reach out with the Force to alter the workings of various things. Among these are the reactors used aboard Imperial ships, and also the workings of the hyperdrive systems."

Varda thought about this for a minute, then noted, "Shaak, it seems you have been quite productive in the time I've been gone … so, based on what you are telling me, you've been compromising ISDs and the like and then relaying this to Palpatine. Am I on the right track?"

Shaak chuckled. "Indeed, my friend. And not only that, I've trained Ahsoka in this, and Maris is also learning it."

Varda glanced over at the Zabrak, who nodded to her with a smirk.

"So, Shaak, how exactly did you and the rebels take out the Death Star? There have been many rumors on the Wheel."

"Well, I guess it's still open to conjecture among most people in the Galaxy. The Empire is obviously not going to talk about it, as it was a major defeat for them."

"Sure," Varda nodded, her face producing a grin.

Shaak continued. "So, what happened with the Death Star? It turned out that the designers had a built-in flaw – a series of exhaust ports, used to bleed off heat from the reactors. But these ports were wide enough to enable passage of proton torpedoes. On the day that we destroyed the station – in the Yavin System – we launched these after engaging the Imperials in a battle of strike craft. Santhé Corp's TIE craft were outmaneuvered by our own interceptors – mostly built on Corellia in secret – and we were able to get in position to launch three torpedoes into the ports, all of which hit their marks and went straight to the reactors. The explosion was cataclysmic."

Varda nodded, barely able to conceal her delight with the planning and execution of the rebels, Shaak in particular.

Shaak then added, "and soon afterward, I engaged the system and sent a message to Palpatine, with pictures of the explosion of his beloved Death Star, with a veiled warning."

She paused, then continued. "And since then, I've been putting the plan into motion."

Varda smiled. "Very good. So … what exactly is Valles Santhé doing as part of it? I knew that you wanted to reach out to her."

"Ah, yes. She and I have been in constant communication and have coordinated our efforts. I've come to recognize that I am not going to be able to run the Empire in a governmental sense without someone like her – someone who has an excellent organizational mind. So she is going to be Grand Vizier under me and together we will carry out the vision."

"And she's willing to play second fiddle to you? Remarkable. It sounds like you two have a plan. I really hope it works."

Maris looked at Shaak for a second. "Master, I don't doubt you, and I know how long you've been planning for this. But I have a bad feeling about Valles. The Force tells me she has her own agenda and she's working through you to achieve it."

Varda looked at Maris, finding herself somewhat in agreement. She then stared at Shaak, as if awaiting an answer.

The Togruta smiled. "I agree, Maris. But Valles and I need each other to carry this out. Yes, she is indeed powerful and is very skilled at concealing it. But I've come to that conclusion on my own, and even so, she may not yet realize the full scope of my power."

Varda, still staring at Shaak, then stated, "I'm not sure I realize it, either. But I know you've been studying those holocrons, and, now that I'm back in your presence again … I must say, Shaak, there is something about you I didn't feel before."

Shaak simply smiled, and then exhaled. "You are correct, Knight Varda. There is something different, but I'm not ready to talk about it. I'm not entirely sure I understand it myself … but I believe it's good. Yes, I plan to become the Empress and I'm going to make sure the evils of the Empire are ended and we can set this Galaxy on the right course. Valles is in agreement with me. Yes, she is quite fond of herself and craves power and wealth, it's easy to see, but I think there is far more to her than we can know at this point, likely something in her past and how she came to be. I'm still learning about her and she's not one to share much, and I think she may have powerful friends elsewhere in the Galaxy as well. But for now, we're going to have to work with her and trust her – but always keep one eye open."

Varda and Maris exchanged glances, then both of them nodded.

"We understand, Master Shaak," Maris answered, a sense of resolve in her voice.

"So … Varda, you will also notice that everything here on Felucia is also in a state of transformation. The existing facilities for the Order will remain as is, but we've added much more. This includes a modern spaceport for landing of mostly smaller ships – freighters, shuttles, corvettes, and the like. We're also constructing a droid manufacturing plant, being run by Ahsoka's friend Chelli Aphra, and our old friend from the Clone War days, Jaybo Hood, whom we found in the employ of Santhé Corp. Valles gave him the chance to join us and they've been quite busy. We've also taken delivery of various craft from Santhé-Sienar, including up to ten battle cruisers and about 200 of the new TIE Defender interceptor craft, which have superiority over everything in their class in the Galaxy, including our X-wing models."

Varda took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly. "It's quite exciting, Shaak. I haven't been around this level of preparation since the days of the Clone War … and you are of course aware of how that turned out for me."

"Yes," the Togruta Master chuckled. "Not to worry, I'm not planning to press you into service this time around. Maris and Ahsoka will command our forces when the time for battle arrives. We're still about two months away from being ready to engage Imperial forces."

Shaak then picked up her com device and spoke into it. "Could you join us, please? There's someone I'd like you to meet."

A few minutes later, a knock came on Shaak's office door. She opened it with a slight wave of her left hand. In walked Frehya Lumoxa, wearing a black silk dress, with her lightsabre attached to a rancor-hide belt that circled her elegant waist. Her long and flowing dark mane hung seductively from her head, making her a striking figure of elegance and polish.

"Frehya, dear, this is Varda Wahi, a Knight of the Order. She'd had to leave us for a while before you joined us. She has a long history in the Jedi and is very knowledgeable about various subjects, including biology, history and the sciences. Varda has been a close friend to Maris and helped to mold into the leader she is today."

Shaak glanced over at the Zabrak, who was smiling, while nodding Frehya's way. She continued, "Varda, Frehya is a Force-sensitive native of the planet Almania, who came to us due to her befriending of Ahsoka about two years ago. I don't know how I could run this place without her. Frehya has an excellent sense of management and is very detail-oriented. In a way, she's our version of Valles – but without the huge ego that the Queen of Lianna has."

"Nice to meet you," Frehya smiled. "I'm also a Knight of the Order, and I am Shaak's executive officer."

"A pleasure, madam," Varda responded, as they both nodded to each other. Frehya offered her hand and Varda took it, giving a firm handshake. "Were you ever in the Jedi?" she asked.

"Ah, no, ma'am. I'd always kept my ability to myself, especially after the Empire took over. I figured it would be dangerous for me to be detected. Ahsoka helped me to improve my skill. In a way, it's like I've been totally reborn. I owe so much to her."

Varda nodded, while remembering all that she and Ahsoka had accomplished together as well. "She's really come a long way, I can see. Quite remarkable."

Shaak then spoke up. "I'm going to leave you two to discuss business while Maris and I attend to some matters … Varda, Frehya will give you a tour of everything and feel free to ask her any questions you may have. Ahsoka and the Liannese will be coming back here in a couple days. You'll likely want to meet Duchess Ana and Countess Kyver, they are going to carry out Valles's and my plans regarding the further development of Felucia. This planet has served us well and will continue to do so, but things are going to change – at least in some ways. I very much want to leave the environment here as it has been over the two decades we have settled on the planet. But this will become a vacation spot for more adventurous folks from Lianna and other Outer Rim worlds in the Queen's orbit. Ana will become the governor here and likely she and Frehya are going to work together. All of this will be worked out in the days to come."

With that, Frehya gestured to the door, and Varda followed her out, more than a little curious to see some of Shaak's plans.

Malachor, Chorlian Sector, NE Outer Rim, 0 ABY 9 months 22 days

After a few hours in the Malachor System, as Ana's yacht continuously orbited the planet, doing scans and compiling data, the three of them – Ana, Ry, and Ahsoka – boarded Ahsoka's ship Corvala Dawn and made a landing approach. Looking below as the ship skimmed over the surface, Ahsoka could see much more had been done in the two months since her earlier visit with Maris. The planet was starting to grow more covered with vegetation and was taking on a greenish tone, with the pink of blossoms starting to become visible here and there. Ry had been taking mental notes and was transcribing these into Basic writing onto her tablet. Ahsoka turned to her.

"Where would you like to land, Countess?"

"Oh, anywhere that you can pick out as a suitable spot. We've more or less settled on the topography of the planet … Her Majesty, Queen Valles, had an overall plan, that we were going to bring the water into the atmosphere over the past few weeks, which started filling the lakes and we've added have ice caps for the polar regions and some of the higher mountains. That took more time, but our engineers were able to induce tectonic movements under the surface and there is also volcanic activity as well. We've got some further work on the climate and weather patterns and the people from the Liannese Water Board have been consulting on the project."

Ana was marveling at what she saw. "Ry, this is going to be quite the creation. You're something of an artist, I think."

The Duchess cuddled up next to her from behind and hooked her right arm around Ry's left. Ry turned to trade kisses with her as they looked lovingly into each other's eyes. Ahsoka smiled as she observed their behavior and thought about her husband-to-be. She looked at Ry.

"I'm happy for you. Look how far you've come. Ana is beautiful and most successful. I wish you the best."

"Thank you, Ahsoka," Ana replied, beaming, her jet-black straight hair seemingly shining as it caught the light coming from Malachor's sun.

"You know," Ry chuckled, "Queen Valles says the place is going to get a new name. Master Shaak wants it to be a whole new world, to be created per her specification. Her Majesty is collaborating on it with her."

"Really?" Ahsoka murmured. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised. Mother has so many big ideas."

"Yes … Valles and Shaak have agreed to call it Avalonia."

"Oh … yeah, now I recall the name. But Shaak didn't go into too much detail about what she wanted."

Ry laughed. "I guess she's already acting like an empress, expecting us underlings to carry out things for her as we try to read her mind. Valles is like this, too."

Ana also laughed. "Don't I know it! But, Ahsoka, we're going to make it however you want it. Valles made sure to tell me that you're very important too."

Ahsoka almost blushed at that, but it was scarcely visible due to her orange complexion. She gave a perplexed look, but then noted, "well … if I am going to be Crown Princess, I suppose so. I'm here to help her in any way she needs me to."

Ry then continued. "So, we're going to design a place for a small city … where there will be a grand palace for you and Shaak. Valles says it will be an Outer Rim home for the Empress and your mother is involved in the details, which will involve some Imperial offices for various parts of the Galactic Administration. Shaak and Valles will probably handle the design and construction of it. And, Valles is already at work designing a new capital city on Lianna for her to reign over the planet – she's calling it Vallesia."

"Wow …" Ahsoka groaned. "But I'm sure it will be beautiful. She has excellent taste. It seems like there's nothing she doesn't know how to do.."

"She mentioned turquoise marble for the main palace there," Ana noted. "I'm not sure where we're going to find that."

"Oh, not to worry," Ry chuckled. "I have a way to add any color we want to the Calcium Carbonate structure in the native rock on Lianna. During the planet's more active tectonic phase, most of the rock was formed. When we quarry it, we can alter the composition as needed. Valles wants a turquoise palace and she shall have one. I'm a busy lady these days, between Malachor and the new Vallesia City, plus consulting with Master Shaak on Felucia."

"I see," Ahsoka laughed. "Well, if you get this done for Shaak, both she and Valles will be in your corner … nice. Okay, we're coming up on a good landing spot. My astromech, R8-ND, has picked one out. He's going to take us down to the surface."

"Great!" Ana chuckled. "Looking forward to seeing this place again."

Corvala Dawn proceeded to touch down on the planet's surface, and the changes that had already taken place were immediately evident. Ahsoka opened the hatch and dropped the gangplank, then led Ry and Ana onto the surface. There hectares and hectares of green vegetation in all directions, stretching to the horizon. The local sun was quite bright as it rose above the western reaches and morning was under day. Everywhere, among the greenery, were pinkish blossoms.

"Wow, it's just like Shaak told me … Pink and green, as far as the eye can see. Is this across the whole planet yet?"

Ry shook her head. "No, but there are large sections of this in place. If we take a trip at low altitude, I can show you what we've got so far."

The three of them got back on the ship and rose to about thirty metres and proceeded to skim the surface. Soon, rivers and small lakes could be seen, handling the run-off from the mountains. They eventually came to an area that was being cleared by a small army of droids.

Ry described all of the plans and work that had been done up to this point, then added, "This is where Her Majesty told us to lay the ground for the area surrounding the new palace. There are going to be several buildings in place to support all of the infrastructure, for when Shaak becomes the Empress."

Ahsoka gasped. "Wait a minute … Valles told you what our plans are?"

"Yes, but don't worry. Ana and I are sworn to secrecy. We're doing everything we can to make things ready for the change in Imperial leadership – but no one else on Lianna is aware of this … and I doubt Shaak has told too many on Felucia. Am I right about that?"

Ahsoka looked at her, then smirked. "Yeah … I think so. I know two or three others besides Shaak and myself that have any idea."

Ana then noted, "the list should be short. I would expect you to know more than we do about your Master's plan."

"Uh … yes," Ahsoka answered. "It's top-level knowledge. But I am curious about one thing. Master Shaak informed me that you both are Force-sensitive. I knew that you were, Ry, and we of course were involved in that together, but Ana, I had no idea you were, too."

Ana gave a half smile. "Oh, I'm not all that advanced, and there are others among the Liannese nobility, but we all pale in comparison to the Queen."

"So …" Ahsoka started, then continued, looking for the right words. "How did you stay hidden from the Empire?"

Ana's face grew serious. "Ahsoka, I don't feel comfortable talking about that with you at this time. Perhaps later … I'm just getting to know you."

"I understand. But I think we'll have those opportunities …"

Ana stared into the Togruta's eyes for a second, then relaxed. "We will, Princess Ahsoka. I very much want to be on good terms with both you and Shaak."

Ahsoka was a little taken aback, being given a royal title, but she realized it was meant to be a show of respect. Ana is crafty, and clearly calculating. I suppose this might be partly why Ry likes her.

At that moment, Ahsoka heard a low-pitched rumble and gazed up into the sky to notice two giant ships overhead. They were on the scale of Imperial Super Star Destroyers, over 40 km in length. She pointed to them and gave Ry a look. The Countess smiled.

"Yes, you are seeing a pair of our engineering platform ships. These are truly state of the art in this category and they were built by Santhé-Sienar and Kuat Drive Yards in collaboration. The Wessex Family on Kuat is close to Valles and they have licensed their technology for us."

"They're huge …" Ahsoka gasped as they passed overhead, about 75 km above the surface of Malachor.

"Indeed," Ana chuckled. "But the bulk of their work is already complete. We're just coordinating the last few touches. We at Santhé Corp are quite proud of our engineering capability and our boats get plenty of work elsewhere in the Galaxy. We feel confident that Avalonia will be a world of beauty without compare and our soon-to-be Empress will be most pleased."

Once all of Ahsoka's questions had been answered to her satisfaction – she took plenty of mental notes, which she had planned to download to her personal holocron for later discussion with Shaak – the Corvala Dawn rejoined the Concordia in orbit above Malachor and plans were made to return to Lianna. On the way over, Ahsoka was given a guest cabin on the yacht. While relaxing on the bed, she spoke into her com device:

"It's all systems go on the Malachor rebuild. Countess Kyver heading up this effort nicely. Will return to Felucia in two rotations."

Felucia, the Assembly Hall, 0 ABY, 10 months, 2 days, 7 hours

Early one morning on Felucia, Leia Organa Skywalker arose and headed for the Assembly Hall to get some breakfast, then work on her sabre forms. Her hard-won victory over Padawan Reema had given her a sense of pride, that Luke was not the only talented Force-adept child of their father. Vader, too, was most gratified when he learned of the outcome and had taken his daughter aside to commend her on the victory and express his hopes that she and Luke would both become talented and valued members of Shaak's Order.

As Leia took her seat in the dining area, she spotted Reema and called out to her.

"Good morning, Padawan Andujah!"

Reema turned around and noticed it was Leia. She groaned inwardly, not wanting to be reminded of her recent loss, but knew she had to show respect as that's what Grand Master Shaak would expect.

"Ah … Leia. Good morning to you, too."

"Might I join you, Reema?"

"Sure. Let's go over by the window."

The two women found an open table and set their trays down. Reema picked up her glass of fruit juice and swallowed some of it, then started crunching her salad. Leia did much the same, then offered, "I really was amazed that I was able to beat you the other day – I still can't believe it."

Reema smiled, then looked the Alderaanian in the eye. "I made some mistakes, but you have talent. Maris and I talked about you."

Leia chuckled. "Yes, I'm sure you did. But everybody I've spoken with says your talent is incredible. You'll likely be a Knight soon."

"Thank you, Leia. I just want you to know that I have no hard feelings about it. I had to realize that I still have so far to go – but I know I'm going to get there."

"Well, I'm sure you will … but I've been thinking about you and how you survived on Coruscant. How did you manage without parents?"

Reema sighed. "I don't usually like to talk about that. I have some scary memories. But I'm a survivor, and I learned how to hide and was always able to find something to eat. People don't know about the underground on Coruscant, but it's huge."

"I imagine it is. Tell me, is it always dark down there?"

"Mostly, yes. Sometimes, I would sneak into buildings and ride the lifts up one hundred, even two hundred levels. Then you could see the sun. I just wanted to know what things were like."

Leia smiled, finding herself more and more sympathetic. "But how did Master Shaak ever find you?"

Reema laughed. "That's a long story, but she didn't. Master Jocasta did, and that was because of her assistant, Padawan Jin-Lo."

Leia nodded. "Oh, I see … well, I'm very pleased to know you, and I hope we can become friends."

"Yeah, sure," Reema chuckled. "But I'm going to beat you next time."

Leia grinned. "Okay. We'll see…"

They soon concluded their meal together, then Reema had to report for drills and practice, while Leia went to look for her father. She was most interested in the next steps for the rebellion, and what part she might play. On her way over to Vader's new Felucian home, she also thought about her (adoptive) mother Breha and the plan to create New Alderaan on the Outer Rim, and also about the mysterious – to her mind – Queen Valles.

Malachor, 0 ABY 10 months, 10 days

The super-yacht Belladonna dropped from hyperspace and fell into orbit around Malachor. Valles was in the ventral observation deck, overlooking the surface below, enjoying a glass of Livornian wine and munching on some seafood snacks. Once in place, she contacted the captain of the Exemplar, one of the Santhé Corp platform ships still in service on the planet from orbit.

"Exemplar, this is your Queen speaking. I want to know the status of operations today on the Avalonia project."

"Greetings, Your Majesty. This is Captain Dohbitz reporting. The project is in the final phases. Work is complete on the macro engineering and we are attending to some remaining details per orders from Countess Kyver. She sends her regards and hopes Her Majesty is well pleased with the progress on the project to date."

"Yes, Captain. I am indeed and your crew is to be commended. I'm going to be paying a solo visit to the surface below and want to ensure operations are halted temporarily. I only will require about two hours."

"We are concluded with everything today, my Queen. Enjoy your visit to Avalonia."

"Thank you. Queen Valles out."

With that, she drained the remainder of her glass and walked over to the inter-ship transport tube. Once seated, she proceeded to her private suite, then went to change into one of her sleek black and red catsuits, with its luxurious heavy satin cloak that caressed her lithe figure most gracefully. She then boarded the tube again and proceeded to the hangar bay. As she stepped out, the attendants immediately came to her and bowed deeply.

"Your Majesty."

"As you were, gentlemen. I'll be taking my personal craft down to the surface for an inspection tour."

She smiled and gave them a quick salute, then strode over to her TIEx1 and climbed into the pilot's chair. Firing up the engines, she punched a few buttons on the console and the hangar bay doors opened, whereupon she mashed the thrusters and the ship slid away from the Belladonna. Once clear, Valles pushed the ship into full drive and quickly descended into a low orbit. Using the Force to do a personal scan, she paid close attention to the various features and saw that they matched her specifications, then picked out a landing spot near the place where the new Imperial Palace was to be constructed.

Once down, Valles exited the ship and stepped onto the planet's surface, her elegant black boots glistening as the cloak furled around her body. At her waist was one of her lightsabre hilts, which she unclipped and switched on the blade, which shone brightly in a reddish hue. Taking a few practice swipes, Valles marveled at the quality of the weapon, then switched it off. It's not the sabre so much as the One wielding it. I've been lax in my practice.

Reattaching the weapon to her belt, Valles then extended both her arms and made fists with each hand, then turned to face a newly carved rocky area. She then launched a powerful 500kW blast into the nearby outcropping and watched it shatter. Valles continued to do this, essentially carving out an area that she then stood in the center of. Smiling as she examined her handiwork, she then returned to the ship and reached behind the pilot's chair and took out a small box, which she then carried back to the area she had carved. Standing straight, she then aimed one fist at the ground carefully, then launched another precision beam downward, carrying out the exercise for about five minutes. Once completed, Valles then opened the box and took out a small spherical device about the size of a golf ball and suspended it via the Force over the shaft she had just excavated. The ball was then carefully lowered into the ground, where it descended all the way to the bottom of the shaft. Valles ran a couple of tests using her com device, then, satisfied with the result, proceed to refill the entire shaft with the excavated material. Valles then returned to her ship and placed the empty box back aboard, then climbed back into the pilot's chair and fired up the engines. Rising to an altitude of about 500 metres, she checked the position of the ship, then quickly went to another location on the surface and repeated the same process, leaving another of the devices implanted deep into the planet's surface. Once three of the devices had been installed, Valles then assumed a high orbit and calibrated the trio to ensure they were all working properly.

All done. Avalonia will be long remembered as some of my best work.

Lianna, 0 ABY 10 months, 17 days

About a week later, Valles returned to the Belladonna and asked the crew to navigate it to a position overlooking the site of the new planetary capital, to be named Vallesia. An area of about 100 square kilometres had been cleared and she turned to Ry, who had joined her on the observation deck.

"I'm so far pleased with this, Countess. Can you do that projection for me again?"

"Yes, Xanim. (A Liannese title of affection, equating to Exalted Lady, which hadn't been used for centuries, but the nobility brought it back for Valles, who gratefully approved) One second …"

Ry pulled out her com device, went to the projection application, and took a seat next to Valles where they could view the Liannese surface below. The proposed street plan for the central area of Vallesia was then projected in red tint such that it overlaid the view of the cleared area. Valles studied it carefully, then glanced at Ry, carefully smoothing her light blue gown – the only thing she had on at the moment.

"I copied the general layout model from Hapes Prime, as you suggested. They have a nice way of honoring their exalted Queen Mother, and I think you deserve similar honor. The new capital will be the talk of the Galaxy when they come for your coronation."

Valles smiled and glanced at Ry, then began to grin. "I'm so looking forward to that. What's the timetable looking like now for getting the core of the City completed, with the parks, the canals, the new Hall of the Legislature, and the various offices for the planetary government?"

"Probably five to six months, Xanim. We're going to have about one million laborers involved in the construction, with some assists from orbit, using two of the platform ships."

"I see. Well …" Valles took a deep breath. "I want this done with all deliberate speed … but no cutting of corners. This complex is meant to serve Lianna for the centuries to come."

"Of course, Your Majesty. Any city with your name on it must be a place truly worthy of that name. We intend to impress everyone that comes to visit – including your good friend Vestalia of Hapes."

"And … of course … our soon-to-be Empress Ti. She and I are going to work together closely."

"Yes," Ry chuckled. "That will be a day long in coming, but how soon do you expect it?"

"Oh, I've no set timetable. It's really up to Shaak. I wouldn't dream of hurrying her along."

Valles then took another look at the view with the projection laid over it and was seemingly satisfied. Her dreams of having a palace that would be the envy of the Galaxy were close to being realized. One million square metres meant lavish guest suites for the top rulers of other key planets – and, it went without saying, for Shaak herself, once she had become the Galactic Empress. Of course, this eventuality had no set timetable, but Valles dearly wanted Shaak in attendance when she was officially coronated, and she planned on attending Shaak's coronation on Coruscant, whenever it came about. She turned to Ry and asked, "How would you like to accompany me on my trip to the Hapes Sector?"

"I'd love to, Xanim, I've never been there. I'd always heard that they restricted outsiders and discouraged tourism."

"That's still somewhat true, but Vestalia may be starting to soften her position on that. How would you also like to meet her? You'll be one of a group of Liannese nobles to accompany me."

"Absolutely, your Majesty. This is indeed an honor."

"Well, we are leaving later today. Your friend Ana is coming, along with a few others."

"Is Duchess Berit also invited?"

"Indeed, she is. And her close friend Countess Janne. We're going to be a happy group."

Ry laughed at that, as she saw Valles smiling big.

"I'm looking forward to it."

"Very well," Valles smiled. "I'm going to be in my suite. We'll be leaving in about one hour. I figured you and Ana would like sharing a stateroom together."

"Oh, that's so kind of you. She and I have become close."

"I know …" Valles chuckled. "And I think you make a lovely couple."

Hapes Prime, Vestalia's palace, 0 ABY 10 months, 18 days

About ten hours later, Belladonna dropped from hyperspace and was in the general vicinity of Hapes Prime. Valles called all of her guests together in the main ballroom on the yacht. They were standing in the room awaiting her entrance when she floated in on a repulsor throne, clad in a shimmery turquoise gown and sporting a simple golden crown studded with various gemstones.

"Good morning, everyone. You are all going to meet the Ta Chumé, Queen Mother Vestalia, in about one hour. A few things about her you should know. Vestalia is very jovial and often quite informal. She is greatly loved in her home sector and you will see statues of her almost everywhere. She is also rather large and so she normally speaks in a loud voice. Most of the Hapian people only dream of being allowed in her presence and so this is a rare opportunity for you as outsiders. So try to relax and enjoy the moment. Our hosts will be offering you a tour of the Hapian capital, Vestaliana City after she has received you and greeted everyone. She and I have become close friends in recent years, so she is looking forward to meeting you. Are there any questions?"

Looking around, Valles saw no one wanting to speak up, so she added the following.

"Very well, the Hapians will send a royal shuttle to dock with us in about 45 minutes. I shall see you all then."

When the time arrived, the Liannese visitors had accompanied their queen and were delivered to the main level of the huge palace that covered almost a million square meters over twenty levels. Vestalia, of course, being so large, liked having plenty of space, so many of the rooms in the palace were on a similar scale. The guests included Ana, Ry, Berit, and Janne, along with the Countess of Kalpania, the Duke of Batesta, the Count of Fulan, the Baroness of Manyada, the Duke of Lesomo, and Prime Minister Dragoo (newly named as Baron of Lianna City, the first peer chosen from the City).

Everyone was wearing his or her finest, with Ry in an elegant black and white dress with an artistic abstract pattern, while Ana was in a bright red. Soon, a fanfare sounded and Vestalia arrived, riding solo on her throne. The guests all curtsied or bowed to her as the throne stopped and she surveyed the group with a wide smile. She was all covered in white satin gowns – perhaps three or four, and a white furry robe over her shoulders. Valles then stepped forward and each queen offered her hand to the other, who kissed it softly, to show mutual respect between the two worlds. Valles stepped back to her group and they awaited Vestalia's remarks.

"Greetings, to you all, from the lovely world of Lianna," the Hapian's voice boomed cheerfully. Her face was flush and it appeared to Valles that Vestalia had shed some of her excess weight, though this was difficult to tell as her garments were loose-fitting.

Valles formally introduced each member of her group, and Ry, though not of Liannese birth, still felt quite honored to be part of the ceremony. Vestalia then asked each person to talk for a few minutes about her or himself and she listened carefully, engaging each of them. They came away feeling that wonderful glow of Hapian hospitality and each thanked the Queen-Mother for inviting them to her palace and home-world.

A couple of hours later, after Valles went to her guest suite and took a short nap (while the others were out seeing the sights in Vestaliana City), she then joined Vestalia for a private meeting in a small (for her) room. She made sure to don a cute pink frock, as she knew the Ta Chumé loved seeing her that way and she frankly enjoyed the attention and their budding relationship. Vestalia had become the mother she'd always wished she'd had growing up. So, once again relaxing in her hostess's lap, Valles then responded to her questions – particularly about Vaston.

"I must say, Queen-Mother, that he and I are growing ever closer and perhaps I can overlook his infatuation with some of the Pa'tsa on various planets here."

"Oh, you mean Pri'zima, Limasse, and Milama," Vestalia laughed. "He helped me pick them out. Three wonderful gals, and they will probably be as fond of you as I am."

Valles had to laugh at that. "I'm starting to understand the Hapian girls' mindset … anything for a piece of the action."

"Indeed …" Vestalia purred.

Valles was starting to notice a slight difference in the Ta Chumé this time around. She seemed more reserved, perhaps a little fatigued by her long run at the top, yet it was nothing she seemed willing to admit openly. The Liannese queen figured she should just relax and let Vestalia open up to her.

For her part, Vestalia – who had been the Ta Chumé for almost 260 years – had witnessed so much over her time on the throne and could take great pride in the success of her home sector, whose income per head made it the richest of them all, and this was largely due to her desire to share everything with the people, who in turn gave her full power for as long as she desired. But no prior Hapian ruler had lasted over 100 years, so there was something very special about Vestalia. The title "Ta Chumé" was a Hapian appellation roughly meaning "queen mother" but it was altogether more than that. The Ta Chumé encompassed the long tradition of powerful female rulers reaching back millennia and these queens earned the love and devotion of their subjects. Vestalia formally owned all property in the sector, which included 120 habitable planets and 40 more that contained great reserves of various metals and materials.

Hapian queens had all had Force sensitivity to one degree or another, but Vestalia's power eclipsed any of them. Only she truly knew what she could do with it and she had little desire to speak openly about it – until she came to know young Valles Santhé. When Valles was still a pre-teenage child, she caught the attention of the Ta Chumé with her obvious intelligence and total charm, even at such a tender age. Vestalia, who was friendly with Kerred Santhé, kept an eye on his granddaughter and was delighted to see young Valles take more and more of a role with the Santhé Corporation, which eventually spilled over into politics and led to her becoming the sovereign of Lianna and a growing list of Outer Rim worlds that were all under her influence and control.

So now she felt it was time to be open about what she wanted from Valles. As the beautiful Liannese rested calmly in her lap, Vestalia gently caressed her soft and flowing mane of black hair, finding it truly beautiful, especially when coupled with the elegant fragrances Valles always wore. She then spoke.

"Valles, darling. I think the time has come for us to discuss our futures – this time with more specificity. As you well understand, the Hapes Sector must be governed by a woman – it's engrained in our culture. Which is why most of the Pa'tsa and governors are all ladies and families treat their daughters very differently than their sons. We encourage boys to be open and pursue the ladies as we want our DNA to constantly be enriched by new strands, but, until now, we've always kept things within our own people. Valles, I've been in this role for 255 years and it's been rewarding, but I am starting to feel its time for our society to turn the page. This won't happen immediately, of course, and my health remains steady. But I look at you and my son and I see the greatest of possibilities there. You both are such outstanding specimens of what our society expects and I imagine your grandfather told you of Lianna and Hapes having a common ancestry some 50 thousand years into the past."

"Why, no, your Majesty, I had never been told that. Yet, it would seem to make sense. There are a number of similarities between our culture and societies."

"Indeed, Valles, and, in that vein, I would think that the finest ruler Hapes could have to follow me … would be you."

"Oh my," Valles half-gasped. "I'm not sure how I feel about that … as you of course know, I have plans involving the entire galaxy."

"Yes, I am well aware of that, and I have no idea what Master Shaak Ti has planned and whom she might see as any possible successor, and I am greatly looking forward to when she takes the Throne on Coruscant, as I intend to reach out to her and get a feel for her. But I also see no reason why both Lianna and Hapes cannot have the same ruler."

"Well …" Valles sputtered out. "I'm not ready to consider this … yet. But I also know where you're going. What if Vaston and I were to produce an heiress for you … would that be more along the lines of where you would like to go?"

"Perhaps," Vestalia said gently. "And I can imagine the possibilities that could arise from such a union. Your daughter – my granddaughter – could have the greatest pedigree in the Galaxy and maybe she would be the one to rule everything in the decades to come. She would proceed with love and firmness …"

Valles laughed. "I suppose so. But let's not get too far ahead of ourselves."

"Oh, I know … I have this tendency to let my mind wander and it goes to all sorts of flowery and fantastic places. But surely you can see the appeal of a union of our two societies."

Valles nodded. "Absolutely."

Vestalia levitated Valles up from her lap, then set her on her feet in front of her throne, so they could face each other directly and so the Liannese queen could have some dignity.

"Thank you, Vestalia," Valles simply said. "I'm going to think about all you've told me, but may I confirm something?"

Vestalia simply nodded, moving her large head up and down, then smiled. Valles continued.

"I believe this little meeting was the purpose of you wanting to see me today and I am gratified that you would hold me in such high esteem … allowing some of my people to accompany me was a nice touch. And … I suppose it wouldn't hurt to become more knowledgeable about the Hapes Sector and its various worlds, and though Vaston seemingly will tell me anything I want to know, I might want to find out more on my own."

"Sure … go on," Vestalia said quietly.

"So, I was wondering about these 'Pa'tsa' as they are called. What exactly are they, and which ones would be the most helpful to me?"

Vestalia smiled. "My dear, they are planetary rulers, not much different than your Liannese nobility and their titles, and they serve at my pleasure. And while they are certainly not equally competent or useful, they are always loyal to me and act as my eyes and ears on each of the 120 worlds. In return, they are rewarded lavishly and have precedence over the elected leaders – who also report to me but are chosen by the people of each planet from a list of candidates that I believe to have earned the privilege of competing for the governorship of each planet. No more, no less."

"So, Vestalia, do you have any favorites?"

"Yes … the one who is most faithful and has the best heart is Milama of Sivoria. Her beauty is unmatched and reflects her basic kindness and decency. She has been the Pa'tsa of her planet for over 25 years. I think you will like her, plus my son is quite fond of her as well. The Sivorians are known for their exquisite beauty as a human sub-species. The planet is mostly covered by water and they are excellent swimmers and can breathe through something akin to gills. I think you will like their unique world."

"Any others?"

"Yes, Limasse of Jovaria is also quite effective and is the most powerful of my Pa'tsa with the Force. She is all-powerful on that very important planet – which you have visited at least once – about ten years ago, as I recall."

"Oh, sure. I liked it. I'm going to pay Miss Limasse a visit. But there's one more, whom I've actually met. She is the Pa'tsa of Baldavia, someone called Azhulia."

Vestalia chuckled. "Yes. I would take anything she says with caution. One of my more ambitious underlings, but she is useful to me in certain ways."

Valles nodded, then curtsied again, as a gesture of respect.

"Vestalia, I always learn something every time I come to see you. I will be heading home soon, after we share a meal and I get some more sleep – the ambrosia tends to drain me – then we'll leave."

"I understand, your Majesty … Queen Valles. But all of you are welcome to stay as long as you wish, and feel free to return any time. Consider our two worlds and societies united. And … just so you know, I would greatly appreciate it were you to marry Vaston and produce my heiress, but you are under no obligation."

Valles chuckled. "I'm glad we understand one another."

Lianna, the City, 0 ABY, 10 months, 17 days, 21 hours

One night, after Valles had worked late at her office, she changed out of her work clothes and donned a simple white dress with black polka dots, then summoned a speeder limo to her office platform. As she boarded it, she gave a signal to the driver and then sat back in the passenger area by herself. A few minutes later, the limo had descended to the streets below and made its way down Palmyra Boulevard, arriving at the Veterans' Hospital, and then proceeded around to the rear of the building complex, then ducked into a tunnel that took her to an indoor parking area. Valles then tapped a couple of buttons on her com device, and when she had arrived at her intended destination, two female medical assistants greeted her quietly. They carefully took her hair and weaved it into a single long braid, then wrapped it in a silk sheath and fastened it. Then they placed a mask over her face, allowing only her eyes to be glimpsed by anyone who might pass by. A repulsor bench arrived, which took the three of them to an Operating Room.

Once inside, a man in a long white coat then donned protective gear and gloves. Valles took out a small vial from a pocket in her dress and handed it to the doctor.

"Just relax, madam," he said to her gently. Valles was helped from the bench and onto a hospital bed. As she lay on her back, the foot of the bed lifted up about a half metre. The contents of the vial were transferred into a syringe and the doctor proceeded to insert it into Valles's vagina, whereupon he pushed the liquid into her uterus. Once this was done, the foot of the bed was lowered somewhat and then she was given a sedative.

A few hours later, Valles had been transferred to her private room on a higher floor in the hospital. The nurse's assistants had taken off her dress and placed her in a standard-issue hospital gown of soft cotton, and she awakened as the sun was breaking over the western horizon. She glanced out of the window and smiled. Looking around, she hit the call button and the nurse soon arrived.

"Is it done?" Valles asked.

"Yes, milady. All set."

"Please get Doctor Winjugu for me."

"At once, milady."

Once the doctor had returned, Valles stared at him for a second. She then asked, "have all the preparations been made?"

"Yes, milady. It has been transferred to your private unit. We expect the gestation time to be about six months. Congratulations, milady. Your daughter will be born at that time. She will receive the highest level of care and we will maintain strict secrecy per your earlier directive."

"Thank you, Doctor. I believe all has been taken care of. I'm going to rest and then I will check myself out in a few hours."

As Doctor Winjugu left her in the room, Valles stared out the window and smiled.

Oh, Vestalia, you will be most pleased. Our societies and worlds are now united.

To be continued …