Author's Note: Greetings readers! Before we venture into a galaxy far far away, I want to wish you all a late Happy Thanksgiving! I want to express my gratitude for each and every one of you who is reading this story. Thanks for being a Frozen Force Fan! I'm so grateful to have this platform where I can share this ongoing adventure with all of you each and every Friday. This being said...on with the show!
Chapter: 43 Senator Dellian
"My allegiance is to the Republic. To Democracy!"
A city rocked with fear! Coruscanti citizens feel under siege as two killers remain at large. While a massive manhunt for the criminals continues, there are those in the senate who question the methods of it all. While the Ethics Committee tries to find solutions, Padawan Elsa Dellian prepares for her first day as an assistant to Corellian Senator Dia Veritaz...
Despite her boisterous bravado, Padawan Tori Vica had been known as "the quiet one" through her childhood. She didn't have many friends as a youngling and wasn't afraid to admit it. While some attributed her lack of companions to her attitude, others would say she was an easy target for bullying. Tori's resolve had hardened regardlessly over the years, but it didn't stop her from caring about the few friends she did have. Surk Vogan had been her best friend and ear to vent to when no one else would listen. She certainly wasn't getting anywhere with her old master. This was most evident by the fact that she hardly missed him. Still, she wondered what had become of Master Pong Krell. There were more pressing matters to attend to as Tori contemplated why the Jedi Council had summoned her. The Pantoran was no stranger to aimlessly wandering the temple and performing the most minimal of tasks. Without Krell, at least she wouldn't have to clean his belongings. She peered down at her guard shotos and struggled to find meaning in them. The blades which had once reinvigorated her spirits now seemed like painful memories. She felt like her weakness was shameful and that she was somehow disgracing the blades' sabersmith, Meliz Sumar.
Tori leaned back against the elevator wall and sighed. She watched the lights of each floor flicker by while brief dings sounded. The lift rumbled for a moment and Tori's heart raced. In that instant, she was aboard the doomed Ethereal. The ship rocked as flames spread across it. She heard the Temple Guard screaming for them to run as Asajj Ventress approached. The Sith's visage and hum of her lightsabers had Tori recalling Surk's demise. The elevator shook again and snapped her free of the painful memory. Tori shuddered and angrily clenched her shoulders. She observed the elevator and reminded herself of where she was. Grounding herself in the present, Tori exited and made for the council chambers.
A pair of Temple Guards flanked its sacred doors and looked to the approaching Padawan. Tori's breaths hastened as she struggled not to see the guardswoman who'd perished on the Ethereal. But her face had been all too real. The desperation behind her partially shattered mask was agonizing as she had tried to hold Ventress back. "Save yourselves!" she had yelled before Ventress plunged a saber into her back.
"Padawan?" one of the guards inquired. He sensed her anxiety and tilted his masked face. "What's the matter?"
Tori nervously fidgeted with her pale, purple braid. Her golden eyes rested on the guardsman's complete and polished mask. "I-" she uttered. "Nothing," she asserted and forced a smile. She straightened her posture and deepened her cracking voice. "Is the council ready to see me?" The guards looked to one another before letting her in.
Tori boldly strutted into the chamber only to have her facade come crashing down. While the masters sat in their circle, a particular Jedi stood in the center. Tori froze while Master Yoda flashed a wrinkly grin. "Padawan Vica," he said. "Pleased to see you, we are. A new master, you have."
The Pantoran watched in disbelief as the master turned around. Gold tabards and a bronze tunic swayed alongside an intricate saber hilt. The silhouette of her afro against the glistening sun had Tori gasping as the sabersmith approached. "Hello again, Tori." Meliz Sumar said. "I understand you're in need of a mentor."
Tori could hardly speak and hurriedly nodded instead. In those moments, the memories of her broken past seemed to temporarily fade. She focused on the very creator of her sabers...the liberator of her mental prison...and felt like she had a chance.
Meditation had always served as Elsa Dellian's salvation. It had been her key to a world beyond her stressful reality. One in which she could get lost in her own thoughts and find peace in the Force. But ever since her otherworldly "experience" on Rhen Var, Elsa found herself sharing thoughts with another.
Evara, Wraith of the Force, spoke to Elsa amidst her contemplations. "You know, to be afraid is to be alive."
"I know," Elsa replied within. "But it doesn't make getting through that fear any easier. I'm worried about my sister."
"And through your concern for Anna, you have now brought more upon yourself," Evara said. "She is with her master and you are with yours."
"You're starting to sound like mine," Elsa snarked. "So you're an agent of the Light Side, right? Does this mean you support the Jedi Code? Are you also telling me to let go of my sister?"
"Attachments are...always a risk. Whether you're a Jedi or not. But I am telling you to trust in those whom you care about. You've done all you can for Anna now, but you must act for yourself."
"Kinda selfish, don't you think?" Elsa asked.
"You're choosing your interests in the service of a greater good," Evara assured. "Focus on your talents, Elsa. If the Light Side of the Force is to prevail, it needs trustworthy agents such as yourself to carry out its will."
"Why don't you do it?" Elsa joked.
"I don't exactly have a body," Evara jested. "That's why we're a team, young one."
"Padawan?" Yelena asked sternly and pulled Elsa from her meditative state. "Were you even listening?"
Elsa's groggy eyes listed across their airspeeder's dashboard as her worldly sensations returned. She felt the cool breeze from the vent systems and heard noisy air traffic against her window. "Y-yes," she assured. "Of course, master."
Yelena simply glared at her and sighed. "I'm sincerely concerned about you, apprentice." she said.
"Why?" Elsa asked.
Yelena chose to answer the question with one of her own. "Are you sure you're still committed to this?"
"Of course I am!" Elsa defended. "This is my opportunity to be heard in the senate. How could you-"
"How could I?" Yelena blurted and impulsively accelerated the speeder. "If you showed even the slightest ounce of respect for the chance you've been given here, you wouldn't have been so distracted. Padawan, you're better than this and you know it."
"Master, with all due respect...do you not realize the crisis happening in our city? Anna and Hans were attacked by terrorists. Assassins are in Coruscant!"
"Well they shouldn't have been there. She shouldn't-"
"My point still stands," Elsa asserted. "There are killers on the loose. If we hadn't arrived-"
"I looked over the reports and saw the footage," Yelena interrupted. "It was Rapunzel who battled the assailants and pushed you to safety. You were lucky to have survived. Just like you were lucky to survive Felucia and Hoth."
Elsa felt beyond torn as she looked to her master. "Tell me something," she choked. "Are you on my side or not?" Yelena raised a brow as her Padawan continued. "Because whenever we're around anyone else, you build me up like I'm some bright...solar flare. But when it comes down to it and it's just us, the leash tightens back on."
"Elsa," Yelena huffed.
"No," Elsa insisted. "You reel me back in like you don't actually believe in me. Why do you do that?"
"Simple. I don't do what you're accusing me of. You evidently have a problem accepting criticism and need to get over it." Elsa gasped at Yelena's comment. "Especially if you're entering the realm of politics. Because all anyone there is ever going to do is tell you no unless you fight for it. So this leash you're thinking of just isn't so." Yelena landed the airspeeder on a platform outside of the Republic Executive Building. She kept the doors locked while the ship was parked. "I have done anything and everything I possibly can to prepare you for knighthood," she affirmed. "If you see it as unfair, that is just how life is." Her stern tone softened into one of a lector's. "Now remember, when you meet Senator Veritaz...address her as-"
Elsa impatiently used the Force to unlock the speeder door herself. "Got it," she muttered and stormed out.
"Padawan!" Yelena scolded until Elsa glanced back at her. The elder once again simmered down and tried to end things on a pleasant note. "May the Force be with you."
"Yeah," Elsa sighed and pursed her lips. "And with you too."
Elsa made her way towards the iconic, senatorial dome. Legendary statues of the Core World founders lined her path as she approached the doors. Upon entering, Elsa noticed a vacant corridor amidst an expansive lobby. While so many sights could've caught her attention first, a painful memory lured her towards the hall. She saw herself being scolded by Master Chuza after Avinaria's secession from the Republic. Thinking about Senator Ryx gave her hope and reminded her that sometimes...freedom was possible. She tried to leave the past where it was and continued to the senatorial offices. As she ascended, she hoped that Veritaz's philosophy would be similar to Ryx's. After all, she was a member of the Ethics Committee.
Senators and office staff alike gossiped as Elsa walked by. Thanks to a sudden news briefing from The Coruscant Rose, the Padawan's face had been known citywide. As far as those around her were concerned, Elsa was investigating the CoCo Town shootings. She read over a directory panel and found the directions to Veritaz's office. Upon reaching the sealed door, Elsa cautiously rang its notifier. A chime sounded and someone came to greet her within a matter of seconds.
Long-sleeves of the darkest blue emerged through the doorway. The fabric might as well have been black as Elsa noticed the wearer's green hands slipping out. The senator's Mirialan handmaiden gently poked her head from beyond the doorframe and examined Elsa. "Taline," the Padawan said. "It's so nice to see you again."
Taline smiled faintly and nodded her head. "Master Jedi," she whispered shyly. "P-please. Come in."
"Oh you can just call me Elsa."
"Okay then," Taline murmured. "Elsa." Her violet gaze listed across the floor and she slowly backed away. Elsa wanted to admire the senator's office, but she became so focused on Taline's condition. The Mirialan appeared glum, shy, distressed, or all of the above. Elsa could sense her troubled mind and stepped closer.
"Are you alright?" she asked. Taline took several breaths to start a sentence, but the words never came. Elsa recognized her behavior and thought about what Evara had said to her. "To be afraid is to be alive," she said. Taline looked up at Elsa with raised brows. "It's okay to be scared, especially after what you've been through. Taken by thugs and then ensnared by wampas? That's a lot to process and your feelings are valid." Elsa wished she had someone to tell her the same. Still, she was glad to be able to provide comfort for another. "My sister's working through some stuff now too. In a way, I think we all are." She noticed Taline still staring at her and smiled. "What I'm trying to say is...if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here for you."
Taline sniffled and she let her jaw drop. Elsa leaned forward as if prepared to hear whatever the Mirialan needed to say. Another door opened beside them and Senator Dia Veritaz came strutting in. "Listen here and listen good," Dia lectured to a handheld hologram. "I already spoke with Senators Farr and Taa. If you want to establish some kind of relationship with Mandalore, at least let the Jedi do his job first! Good day!" Dia angrily ended the call and her glower switched to a grin almost instantly. "There she is!" she rejoiced and tossed Taline the holocom. "There's our Jedi celebrity."
Elsa's brows furrowed. "Celebri-...Oh...the news?"
"Honey, you're on every network," Dia replied and flipped a datapad on her desk. Images flashed of a dumbfounded Elsa glaring into Belle's camera droid. "I have to ask, are you a natural blonde? Because those platinum locks are gorgeous on camera."
"Senator Veritaz," Elsa sighed. "I am so sorry about all of this news."
"Darling," Dia said with a smirk. "Never apologize for attention. The good and the bad kind will make enemies for you either way." She grabbed a pitcher and watered her decorative plant. Its dark purple leaves dampened and glistened as she quenched its thirst. "There you go, dear." She said in a kindly, nurturing whisper. She spoke to the plant like a mother would her child. "Sometimes you just need a little help to grow the right way." She set the pitcher down and stood beside her wide window. The city's gleaming sunlight shined across her seafoam gown. "This blasted city," she grumbled. "Corruption runs rampant and now we've got one...two killers wreaking havoc. Who am I kidding? That's nothing new. And the worst part? Guess the priority of those in the senate." Elsa shrugged as Dia carried on. "Dinner parties," she jested and had to conceal a sarcastic chortle. "All hell's breaking loose out there and Senator Orn Free Taa wants luxurious arrangements made for potential negotiations with Mandalore. Your Order has only just sent a Jedi to speak with Duchess Satine on an ongoing threat and he's already planning a three-course meal. That self-indulgent, Loyalist Twi'lek."
"Duchess Satine," Elsa mentioned. "She founded a pacifistic Mandalore, right?"
Dia smirked and gave Taline a nudge. "Looks like someone has done her research," the senator lauded. "That is correct. But you know our Republic. Why watch out for their own when they can rub their greedy fingers on everyone else? If we aren't careful, this will be the beginning of justice's end."
"I'm at your service, my lady." Elsa said and left Dia astonished. "I came here to learn and assist at your side. What can we do to save our democracy and fight this corruption?"
Dia's eyes did all the talking for her as Taline pulled a chair over. "Take a seat, young Dellian," the senator said. Elsa followed suit as Dia loomed over her desk. She leaned against it and stared into the Padawan's eyes. Whether she was testing Elsa or not, Dia undoubtedly had an intimidating stare. "Tell me, do you have any political experience?"
"I-" Elsa started to speak and looked over at Taline. The Mirialan seemed curious in her own reserved ways while Elsa fidgeted. Both gazes were on her as they awaited a response.
"Come now, darling." Dia intoned. "If we're going to be working together, I need to know I can trust you. Working in the senate will teach you just how much someone's eyes say about them. You'd be surprised how much a simple gaze or brief blink can hide. I don't have to possess the Force to see how nervous you are. But the question remains. Are you going to answer...or not?"
Elsa hung her head. "I do have experience," she admitted and her heart sank. "I was tasked with helping to keep Avinaria in the Republic when its representative spoke of seceding."
Dia raised a brow. "And how'd that go?"
Elsa forced a smile. "Respectfully, ma'am, you're a member of the Galactic Senate. You already know that Avinaria left the Republic."
"That I do," Dia nodded. "But I was asking how things went between you and Senator Ryx Finc." Elsa's eyes widened while Dia smirked. "Don't be so surprised, honey. It's my job to know everyone in the senate. I heard several Jedi were trying to convince him to stay. But everyone has a different take, so what did you say to him?" Elsa was about to reply when Dia held up a finger. "But before you respond, remember this. In politics, you have a limited number of chances if you screw up. Get caught lying, and your credibility dies with you."
Elsa swallowed hard as Veritaz's office suddenly felt more like an interrogation chamber. I don't know, she thought. Was she a friend of Ryx's or an enemy? Do I tell her what she might want to hear...or what she needs to hear?
With a deep breath, the Padawan made her decision. "As a member of the Ethics Committee, you must value truth over anything to the contrary." Elsa said. "While my companions urged me to keep Avinaria in the Republic, I couldn't bring myself to do it. Senator Finc had made up his mind. He knew his people and believed the Republic would abuse its power over Avinaria. So while I did debate with him briefly, I left the fate of his world in his hands. I believed that was how it should have been. Because who was I to tell him what a world I've never been to needed? I was shunned by some Jedi for it, but Senator Finc viewed the secession as a declaration of freedom. That was enough comfort for me."
Elsa braced for the worst as Dia accepted her story. The senator glanced at her handmaiden and nodded proudly. "All people have a choice, Elsa," she said. "You did the right thing."
The Padawan sighed in relief. "Thanks," she replied. "I-"
"But..." Dia interrupted and raised a finger.
"Huh?" Elsa inquired.
"A well-educated, professional diplomat would've swayed Ryx back to the Republic before his next molting season." Dia gestured to herself and snickered. She noticed Elsa's frown and rushed to rub her shoulders. "Now now. Don't beat yourself up about it. If you would've known better, you would've done better. And you will at my side! When I'm done with you, you'll be the finest Jedi diplomat in the galaxy. Anything you've ever wanted will be within your grasp!"
Elsa looked up at the overly-energetic senator and said, "All I want is justice and voices for those who have none."
"Don't we all?" Dia replied. "It's going to take tireless and unwavering dedication, Elsa." She placed an arm around Taline and pulled her close. "But through our combined efforts, we can create a greater tomorrow for this Republic!"
Elsa found the senator's enthusiasm was inspiring. I can see why others are willing to follow her, she thought. This woman risked everything to fly to Hoth and try to single-handedly rescue her handmaiden. With a bold smile, Elsa rose from her seat and nodded to the senator. "Where do our efforts take us, my lady?" she asked.
"The Supreme Chancellor," Dia answered and Elsa nearly fainted.
Elsa's foot tapped nervously in the senate elevator. Dia glanced down at it and snickered. "Are you about to drop a beat?" she jested.
"Sorry," Elsa whispered and steadied her foot. "I'm ready to learn, but I didn't think we'd be starting at the very top."
"Oh honey. It's the only way to get anything done around here. It's hard enough to schedule a meeting with Chancellor Palpatine, so you have to take what you can get." Dia's brows furrowed. "Or is there more to the chancellor that you're not telling me?"
"Nothing I can prove anyway," Elsa muttered while thinking about the mysterious kolto shipments.
Dia glanced at Taline and pat Elsa's back. "Such is life in the political sect," she admitted. "It's all about who you know rather than what. You'd think it'd be the other way around, but that'd be too easy."
"Wait, so you believe me?" Elsa queried.
"Oh yeah," Dia snorted. "Come on. If Palpatine is a clean politician, I'm a rancor's mother. And thank the stars I'm not. Don't have kids, Elsa. They'll slow you down."
"Well Jedi doctrine-"
"Right. No kids. No love?" Elsa shook her head and Dia smirked. "Oh come on, darling. Haven't you ever had the hots for one of your Jedi friends?"
"Can't say I have, ma'am." Elsa earnestly replied.
"You just haven't met the right one yet," Dia jeered. "I'll see him occasionally on the HoloNet...but that Anakin Skywalker." Dia bit her lip as Elsa and Taline shared a mutual discomfort. "There's a hottie."
"Senator," Elsa intoned. "With all due respect, we're about to meet with the Supreme Chancellor. Can we please try and keep things professional?"
Dia's smirk twitched. "Of course, dear. I was merely making idle conversation."
"Why are we meeting with him?" Elsa inquired.
The elevator dinged and Taline kept the doors open for them. She trailed behind the duo to monitor anything they needed. "Every time an incident like CoCo Town happens-" Dia explained. "-the non-humans of Coruscant are always put at risk. The public is often unaware of it, but we in the Ethics Committee are all too familiar with this abuse. When non-human criminals carry out dark deeds, entire communities pay the price. We're taking this grievance up with the chancellor before brutality escalates out of control."
They approached the door to Palpatine's suite, which was flanked by a pair of red-robed guards. Each clasped a dark stun pike and peered at the visitors through narrow slits in their helmets. "Senator Dia Veritaz," Dia proudly introduced herself. "I'm here for my meeting." The guards let them pass while one of them noted Elsa's presence.
Archaic, bronzium statues lined the crimson walls leading towards Palpatine's office. A broad, neatly-organized desk had two chairs prepared for the chancellor's guests. "Senator Veritaz," Palpatine called while taking notes for legislature. "Please come in." The white-haired elder sat on the opposite side while Vice Chancellor Mas Amedda stood beside him. The horned Chagrian squinted at Elsa and whispered something to Palpatine. Only then did the chancellor peer up from his datapad. It appeared that all eyes were on Elsa as he faintly smiled. "Senator, I was unaware that you were bringing a Jedi with you."
"This Padawan is acting as my assistant," Dia assured.
"On behalf of the Jedi Council?" Mas Amedda queried.
"On behalf of herself," Dia insisted.
Palpatine raised a hand to quell the Vice Chancellor's inquiries and gestured to the seats. "Please," he said.
Elsa was hesitant and Dia spoke through her faltering smile. "What are you doing?"
"He didn't know I was coming," Elsa whispered. "That other seat is for Taline. I can stand and-"
"And I am honored to have you as my assistant!" Dia proclaimed and pulled Elsa into an embrace. All pleasantries dropped once she had her in her arms. She proceeded to squeeze and whisper in Elsa's ear. "We've been given a chance here and if you don't play along, our hopes go down the drain. Taline stands, you sit. Play nice, darling." Dia forced a smile as she parted from Elsa's embrace. The Padawan peered over at Taline as if trying to coax her own opinion. The Mirialan nodded to move forward with Dia's plan and Elsa reluctantly obliged. She sat beside Dia and Palpatine powered his datapad down.
"Now then," the chancellor said. "What can I do for you?"
"As you know-" Dia began. "The shooting in our Collective Commerce District has the city on edge."
"Very much so," Palpatine concurred and glanced at Elsa. "How are the Jedi who were involved? You were there, were you not?"
Elsa swallowed hard. "I-"
"She was," Dia interrupted. "But we aren't here to talk about what happened. We already know about the tragedy. But these killers are on the loose and there will be repercussions if they aren't apprehended swiftly."
"I am well aware of the threat we are facing, senator." Palpatine said. "Which is why I have ordered the Coruscant Guard to cooperate with the Security Force to initiate a manhunt."
"But we've seen this before," Dia asserted. "These manhunts hardly work and our citizens get profiled. People get hurt under aggressive tactics. When the killer known as 'The Bug' escaped from prison, countless Rodians faced discrimination during the search. Even Duros were persecuted after bounty hunter Cad Bane's robbery from the Jedi Temple. With pixelated holofootage of an Umbaran and Zygerrian male, we're going to see the same abuses happen again."
"Zygerrians are a rare species to be found on Coruscant," Mas Amedda countered.
"But Umbarans are not," Dia retorted. "So much so that they are part of our very senate. But you could lose their support if you harass their own."
"Choose your words carefully," Palpatine murmured. "Do not forget that I have an Umbaran Chief of Staff."
Dia sneered. "Just because you have an Umbaran in your pocket doesn't mean you're absolved from caring about her people."
"A bold statement from someone with a Jedi assistant," Palpatine nonchalantly quipped. He gestured to Elsa and raised his thinning brows. "Or does she have a voice of her own? Tell me, Padawan. Who do you truly speak for? Senator Veritaz or the Jedi Council?"
Elsa took a deep breath and chose her words wisely. "Supreme Chancellor, I speak for myself, but I am here to serve those in need. All around us, people are getting hurt unnecessarily. I have witnessed similar actions carried out by a particular unit of clone commandos. They executed a woman and left her child orphaned."
"Was this woman a criminal?" Palpatine asked and Elsa bit her lip.
"That's...what they told me. Yes," she relented.
Palpatine nodded. "Because we now have a dead, law-abiding citizen of our Republic and two criminals running rampant. People want to feel safe, young Jedi."
"Which people?" Dia intervened. "My job is to make sure everyone is safe. Even as we speak, law enforcement is raiding homes under the guise of security. That is not what a safe and free Republic does."
"My hands are tied, Senator Veritaz." Palpatine sighed. "There's only so much I can control from my office."
"You are Supreme Chancellor!" Dia shouted while Palpatine remained unfazed. "How can there be such a limit to your authority?"
"A just question," he mumbled. "But the conduct of our lawmen is completely up to their own standards. They must be personally held accountable for any missteps."
"And by lawmen, you mean clones and police droids." Dia added.
"What would you have me do?" Palpatine scoffed. "Should I register bounties on these killers? Surely that would make the hunt more intimate and this discrimination you speak of would stop. But in its place, what kind of gangsters and thugs would I invite into Coruscant that aren't already here?" Palpatine's scowl transitioned into a half-hearted grin. "I'm actually glad you stopped by. It saves me the trouble of messaging you, senator."
"What are you saying, chancellor?" Dia asked.
"Clearly the Ethics Committee has a problem with Coruscanti law enforcement but is unwilling to get their own hands dirty."
Dia's brows furrowed and she raised a finger. "Now hold on," she growled. "I never said I was unwilling to-"
"Then how we proceed falls upon you. If you can find an alternative solution to finding the perpetrators, all shall be solved. But if not and the Ethics Committee refuses to back our methods, I will have no choice but to place bounties on the criminals. Are we clear?"
Dia forced a smile and said, "As clear as it gets." She tapped Elsa's shoulder and hastily rose. "Come on. We're done here."
"Thank you for your time, Supreme Chancellor." Elsa added. She locked eyes with the old man and found herself lost for a moment. He was everything and yet nothing at the same time. Normally she could sense emotions and feelings whenever she encountered someone. But when it came to Palpatine, all seemed...clouded. He was a difficult man to read and Elsa wondered if the stress of working with Veritaz was already affecting her.
She was nearly out when Palpatine called, "Padawan."
Elsa froze and slowly turned. "Y-yes, Supreme Chancellor?"
"You are wise and bold for someone your age. It'll serve you well in this...web of politics." His coy grin was slightly unsettling as he inquired. "I never caught your name."
"Elsa," she said. "Elsa Dellian."
As the Jedi departed, so too did Palpatine's smile. His pale fingers drummed against his desk while he deeply pondered. Mas Amedda had seen the look one too many times. He knew when the Supreme Chancellor was devising a plan.
Dia huffed as they reentered the elevator. "Well that went just as well as I expected it to."
"I hope you know what you just signed us up for," Elsa replied. Her eyes suddenly widened with realization. "Wait, was that your plan all along?"
Dia pointed at her head and chuckled. "Now you're catching on, dearie. The chancellor has enough on his supreme plate to deal with. He's just shifted this responsibility to us and now we can act on behalf of the Ethics Committee."
"Wh-where do we even start?" Elsa asked. "Are we just going to police the police?"
"Of course not. We find a source. I have no idea how long it'll take to locate these killers, but I can at least give the Umbaran people a fighting chance. That's where our next stop comes in." Before they carried on, Elsa placed a concerned hand on Dia's shoulder. "What is it?" she groaned. "We need to get going."
"It's about your handmaiden," Elsa whispered and glanced back at the Mirialan. "I'm worried that something may be wrong with her."
"You think?" Dia replied. "I know Taline is struggling. She hasn't been the same since the Hoth rescue and it'll take time for her to open up again. Who knows what those dastardly fiends did to her before you or I arrived? The most we can do is be there for her now. She'll come around."
Elsa and Taline followed Dia to the opposite side of the Executive Building. They approached a silver-streaked door and Dia gave it a knock. A pair of metallic footsteps shuffled towards the door and a protocol droid came to answer. "Senator Deechi," it beckoned. "You have visitors."
"Send them in," a deep, yet orotund voice commanded. The trio entered to see an Umbaran man sitting in a dimly-lit office. He kept his shades folded down and they cast shadows over his bone-white completion. His neatly-combed hair fell back like a series of snowy slopes against his scalp. Grey eyes lurked between dark facial markings and examined his unexpected guests. The Umbaran's silver lips parted as he said, "Senator Veritaz. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"No pleasure, I'm afraid." Dia replied. "Only turmoil. But one you can help stop."
Deechi scoffed. "Surely Senator Amidala hasn't gotten to you too. Are you here to sway me against the production of more clones because-"
"Come on, Mee." Dia chuckled. "You know me better than that."
"Do I?" Deechi queried.
Dia's laugh became raucous and irksome to Elsa's ears. "If you think I'd side with that unpatriotic, Naboo snob, I might as well be a rancor's mother!" Elsa stood with a disgusted grimace while Dia and Deechi shared a cackle. Padmé had been nothing but kind to Elsa and hearing Dia speak of her in such a way left her feeling frustrated.
"Fetch some chairs," Deechi ordered his droid and grinned at Dia. His laughing quelled when he noticed Elsa's discomfort. "What's with the Jedi?" he asked.
"She's my assistant," Dia boasted.
"So what is Taline, fried tip-yip now?" Deechi joked and the Mirialan hung her head.
The sight infuriated Elsa as she dared to step forward. With clenched fists and a quivering lip, she said, "We're here about your people."
The office became eerily silent until Deechi's droid dragged chairs over. "Is that so?" Deechi inquired and scowled at Elsa's presentation.
Dia covered for her and stepped between them. "What my assistant is trying to say is that the news isn't doing Umbarans any favors right now. As the hunt goes on for an Umbaran killer, the Ethics Committee worries that innocents will suffer in the wake. We've seen it before. False accusations, severe profiling, all of it."
"Your consideration for my people is appreciated," Deechi admitted. "You know, sometimes I feel like my dedication to this Republic is the only thing keeping Umbara from going to war with it."
"And believe me," Dia assured. "No one here wants a war with Umbara."
"But what can I do?" Deechi asked. "I may represent my world in the senate, but it is the Republic's police droids and clone troopers who carry out the abuse. I have no authority over them."
"But you must have heard something," Dia insisted. "You must know something. The Umbarans of Coruscant look to you as a confidant." Deechi looked away and Dia leaned closer. "I know you want to protect your people but that you also love this Republic. However, I need you to trust me...please." Deechi's persistent silence had Dia glaring. "So that's how it's gonna be? Okay. But just remember that I gave you a chance."
Deechi's pointy nose wrinkled. "Wait. What do you-"
"In case you haven't noticed, Coruscant is facing a threat to its security. Without your cooperation, I'll have to have your office fully inspected."
"On whose authority?" Deechi shouted and panic stirred in his widened eyes.
"The Jedi Order's!" Dia raised her voice over his and pointed at Elsa. The Padawan gasped and tried to intervene, but Dia kept yelling. "We came for one secret, but under their investigation...who knows what else they'll dig up? Is that really what you want?"
"Senator-" Elsa retaliated.
"Fine!" Deechi angrily surrendered and Dia motioned for Elsa to back up. "I'll tell you what you want, just leave the Jedi Order out of my office."
"You have my word," Dia promised.
"There is persecution everywhere," Deechi said. "But the undercity gets it the worst. I've heard of an underworld police officer who commands the streets with an iron fist. None dare oppose her and a promotion after her...efforts during the Zillo Beast attack only made things worse."
"I need a name and a location," Dia requested.
Deechi scratched at his pale temples until the name returned. "Souz," he hissed. "Officer Souz. My Umbaran contacts on level 1313 say most non-humans fear her. Last I heard, she's been tasked with leading the undercity manhunt for those killers."
"Then that's where we're headed," Dia said. "Come on, Elsa...Taline. We need to get to 1313 and find Officer Souz before she starts razing non-human homes to the ground."
"I trust my tip will remain anonymous amidst your efforts," Deechi added. "I'd hate to get involved in this mess."
Dia spun and nodded to him. "Of course, friend," she said. "Besides, it's my job to get involved." As the doors opened, Dia muttered another comment under her breath. "Someone has to do something around this here. Lousy sleemos."
The streets of 1313 were as grimy as Kristoff Bjorg had remembered. He sat in a ramshackle garage and watched downtrodden citizens hobble by. Sven's concerned moo caught his attention and had him glancing over. "I'm alright, buddy." Kristoff sighed and leaned on his furry friend. The sound of blowtorches and grinding gears echoed throughout the garage. Crujik, Patoni, and several other Outcasts were hard at work on a modified airspeeder.
Patoni spray-painted the scarlet model with bolts of golden lightning. "This thing's gonna fly, boss," the Rodian rejoiced. "With the accelerator and thrusters I installed, it truly is the embodiment of speed."
Crujik wiped the grease from his hands and leapt down to Kristoff. "My friend," the Twi'lek said. "Why so glum? Just look at the vehicular marvel we've prepped for you."
"I think about the one I wrecked," Kristoff lamented. "The Martez family didn't deserve to lose their speeder over that one's actions." He gestured to Patoni and the Rodian hid behind the engines.
Crujik frowned and sat beside Kristoff. "You care deeply about those around you," he said. "That's not a bad thing. What's done is done, but now you have a chance to change things. I'll tell you what. You start winning races and paying rent will be one of many benefits. You can buy all the speeders you want! Hell, you can get the Martez's a whole garage teeming with speeders."
While Kristoff thought on his words, Vivi came storming into the garage. "Hey babe," she impatiently called to her boyfriend. "Is the human ready yet?"
"I don't know," Crujik jested and pulled Kristoff close. "Is he?"
Kristoff took a deep breath and nodded. "Let's race," he affirmed and rose from the bench. While he waited on his equipment, he couldn't help but overhear the news on a wall-mounted datascreen.
"This is Coruscant Rose reporter Belle O'Har with developments on the ongoing crisis. Coruscant officials are commencing with a citywide manhunt for two criminals after a shootout in the Collective Commerce District. Space ports and hangars are being locked down while the undercity is being prioritized."
"Don't let that scare you," Crujik scoffed. "It's just a reminder of how this Republic treats its citizens."
Kristoff was about to dismiss it when Belle mentioned the Jedi Order. "No plan has officially been issued from the temple. I was able to speak to a Jedi myself, but the results were not promising."
The screen transitioned from Belle's face to footage of Elsa standing in shock. "Can you give me something...anything on the men who attacked CoCo Town tonight?"
Elsa was stuttering. "Well...I-"
"Ma'am," a police droid was beckoning. "You cannot be back here."
The camera droid swayed as Belle's voice kept calling. "Where are they now? Why were the Jedi unable to stop them? Are the people of Coruscant safe? Master Jedi!"
"Elsa," Kristoff gasped while Sven's eyes widened. "What's she-...Is she alright?"
"Hey!" Vivi scolded. Kristoff turned as she forced a jumpsuit and helmet into his hands. "Pay attention," she demanded. "It'll keep you alive. Now suit up." An underworld police cruiser parked across the street. "Hurry, get moving."
As the Outcasts departed with their racing vehicle, the mayhem was merely beginning across from them. Two underworld officers exited the cruiser and trudged up to a decrepit home. The yellow stares from their mechanical coverings glowed in the dusty windows. One of them furiously knocked on the door. His knuckles slammed hard enough to have passersby shuddering. The non-electrical door creaked open and an impoverished Umbaran answered. "Yes?" he asked.
"Coruscant police," the helmeted officer said. "Please evacuate the premises for a mandatory search."
The Umbaran's lip trembled. "On what grounds? Do you have a warrant for-" He swallowed hard when he noticed the second officer patting a holstered blaster.
"This is a matter of planetary security, sir," the officer asserted. "I won't ask again. Evacuate the premises." Regardless of how frightened he was, the Umbaran glanced back and put on reassuring smile for his family. His frightened wife and son peeked from the bedroom as he nodded to them. "Who are you looking at?" the officer interrogated.
"My family," the father said and started to close the door. "I'm sorry, but without a warrant you-"
In a sudden motion, the officer kicked down the door and the Umbaran fell backward. His family screamed as he was dragged out against the sidewalk. The second officer entered the home and drew her blaster. "Hands up! Now!" she yelled. The mother and child obliged as the officer closed in. "Who else is in the house?"
"No one," the mother answered while her son wept.
"Don't lie to me!" the officer asserted.
"No one!" she pleaded.
"Get outside! Move it!" She led them at gunpoint and brought them to his partner.
"I'll watch'em," the officer outside said. "Check the house." While she ransacked the Umbaran home for fugitives, he had the Umbarans on their knees. The family flinched and quivered while listening to floorboards being torn apart.
"Papa," the Umbaran child sniffled. "I'm scared."
"It's okay, son," his father replied.
He tried to hug him from the sidewalk, but the officer raised his blaster. "Don't you move!"
"He's frightened," the father pleaded. "I beg you. Just let one of us hold our boy."
"Either of you moves an inch and I'll fry you," the officer growled. In that instant, his pistol began to shake. It quaked as if its wielder was pulsing with anger, so the Umbarans braced for the worst. They were all the more perplexed when the officer seemed equally confused. Suddenly, an unseen Force pulled the weapon out of his hands. All watched as the pistol spun through the air and landed in a Jedi's pale palm.
Elsa Dellian had ferocity in her eyes and disgust across her face. The officer staggered back while Taline and Dia flanked her sides. "Call your partner back," Senator Veritaz ordered. "Now."
"H-hey!" the officer brayed. "Get out here! Quick!"
The other officer slipped out of the home and froze at the sight. While seeing a Jedi was daunting enough, a prominent member of the Ethics Committee only made matters worse. "Oh kriff," she muttered.
"Yeah," Dia mocked. "Kriff is right. What the hell is going on over here?"
While Dia addressed the officers, Elsa and Taline went to the Umbarans. They stood to form a barrier between them and their aggressors. "Papa! Mama!" the child wept as his parents embraced him.
"Senator," one of the officers said. "Try to understand amidst this crisis. We were just following orders."
Dia scowled. "Do you have any idea...can you even fathom how many of the galaxy's most heinous crimes have been committed by people 'just following orders'?" The officers remained silent as she stepped closer. Dia's voice was sterner and deeper than Elsa had ever heard it. She reminded her of Mattias when he'd become enraged over the mistreatment of Rovani. "I know you grunts don't care much for the populace let alone think for yourselves, so I'll get right to the point. Where is Officer Souz?" The partners looked to each other through their unblinking and expressionless face coverings, yet said nothing. "I know she's behind these searches and all of the abuses happening down here," Dia asserted. Her eyes narrowed on the officers as she clenched her fists. "Fine. This only gets worse if you don't give her up. Elsa!"
"Senator?" the Padawan worried.
Dia's finger twitched towards Elsa. "See this Jedi? I know you already have. All of Coruscant has. This Jedi Knight's been running multiple cases for the Order and is excellent at what she does."
The officers stiffened while Elsa stepped in. "Wait," was all Elsa could utter before Dia raised her voice even higher.
"So help me, the Jedi Order and I will see every one of you corrupt scumbags thrown in a ray-shielded cell!" the senator yelled. "Do you know what happens to law enforcement in prison?" Though she couldn't see their faces, Elsa could sense the officers' rising anxieties. Dia scowled as she continued. "Locked away with every hardened thug you've ever dealt with. All the pent up grudges...all of the seething hatred. It's gotta go somewhere, officers. And no one can help you behind those walls."
"We just started on this level!" one of the officers pleaded. "We were just doing as we were told."
"You don't know what it's like down here for us," the other said. "There are threats everywhere."
"Everywhere," Dia murmured and glanced at the Umbaran family. "Do these people look like threats to you?"
"Please don't report us," the officer begged.
Dia stared the rookie down and made her demand. "Give. Me. Souz."
Elsa watched in disbelief and shame as the officers complied. She gasped when the Umbaran father placed a hand on her shoulder. As she looked into his white, tearful eyes, she found nothing but relief. "Thank you, Jedi," he said. "Bless your kind heart." He and his family sought refuge in an alley as Dia returned.
"Well," the senator rejoiced. "That was easy. Officer Souz is patrolling a wharf not too far from here."
"What was that back there?" Elsa forcefully asked.
Dia's smile vanished and she raised her brows. "Pardon?"
Elsa shook her head while watching the officers depart in their cruiser. "And you're letting them go? By the Force, what exactly are you doing to-"
"Honey," Dia intoned. "I need you to calm down."
"My name is Elsa," the Padawan asserted. "Not honey, darling, dearie, or any other nickname you have for me." Taline gasped as Elsa stood her ground. "Let's be honest with each other here, senator. Am I really your assistant here? Or am I just your Jedi enforcer?"
Dia bit her lip and scanned the Padawan from head to toe. She took her time answering and smirked, making Elsa wait for it. "Oh Elsa," she teased. "You do have a fiery side to you. Congratulations, you've passed my test."
"Test?" Elsa asked.
"Yes darl-...Elsa," Dia insisted. "I had to make sure you weren't a complete pushover. Those types get eaten alive in the field of politics. I'm honestly surprised you're upset with me for using your...status to its full potential."
"What you're doing borders on extortion," Elsa argued. "You wield my name and Jedi authority like a threat when you don't get your way."
"But all for the greater good," Dia defended. "One could argue that you Jedi do the same, threateningly swinging those lightsabers of yours all in the name of peace. Make no mistake, young one. I haven't lost sight of what I'm doing here. But I understand how this system works. You have to play your cards right or everything falls apart. Corruption is part of the game, and unfortunately you have to get your hands dirty to fight it." Dia brought her voice down to a kindly, nurturing whisper and placed an arm around Elsa. "Yeah, I let those cruel officers walk. But it's just so we can get to Souz. We fight this to the top and then shut it all down piece by piece. I've seen too many good plans fail. You have to trust me, Elsa. I trust you. Better yet, I believe in you."
Believe.
That word struck Elsa like a bolt of lightning. She looked to the smiling senator in astonishment as she considered Yelena's neglect. For a moment, she felt like Senator Veritaz was willing to put more faith in her than her actual master was.
"I trust you," Elsa replied and Dia rigorously rubbed her back.
"That's my girl!" the senator cheered. "Now let's find Souz and shut this insidious operation down." Taline watched with widened eyes as Elsa and Dia linked arms and moved ahead of her.
1313's wharf was comprised of speeder docks and decrepit eateries. The structures circled a murky, underground lake which only the most desperate individuals could ever fathom drinking from. The last thing any destitute denizens expected to see was a senatorial airspeeder cruising by. Officer Souz was as equally perplexed as she stared from her patrol cruiser. Dia landed beside her and Taline rushed to open her door. Elsa emerged from the opposite side while Souz exited to meet them.
"Take a wrong turn somewhere?" the officer remarked.
"Senator Veritaz," Dia introduced herself. "Ethics Commit-"
"I know who you are," Souz interrupted. Her masked head tilted with intrigue. "I take it you and the Jedi Order are here to give me a moral lecture?"
"What about a peaceful solution instead?" Elsa considered. "I am Elsa Dellian."
Souz looked over at her. "Dellian? Say, I know a Dellian."
"Perhaps my sister, Anna." Elsa inquired.
Souz snapped her thickly-gloved fingers. "That's the one. Now there was a tough kid. That Jedi would understand what I'm doing down here."
"You don't know that," Elsa countered.
"Well here's what I do know. There is no peaceful solution to this problem. You think two guys who shot up a street, wounded Jedi, and killed a citizen are gonna come quietly?"
"That doesn't justify the mistreatment of the non-human populace down here," Dia said. "Umbaran families are-"
"Oh don't give me that crap," Souz snapped. "It's so easy for you senators to take the moral high ground from behind your shiny, upper city desks. Do you know why we have to wear all this garbage?" Souz waved a hand across her mechanical mask. "Because if we don't, we'll be targeted. Gang violence is out of control and this anonymity is the only way we can feel safe."
"And yet you've still managed to make a threatening name for yourself," Dia countered.
Souz clenched a fist. "You think I wanted that title? You think I want people to cower in fear when they see me walking down the street? I hate that I feel like fear is the only thing keeping me alive down here. Cause I think as long they're afraid of me, maybe they won't hurt me or my fellow officers. Yet still it happens. I've lost so many here in the undercity. We fear for our lives every day when we put this gear on...never knowing if the simplest call will be a deadly shootout. We practically live in this gear and barely remember our faces anymore."
"I'm sorry for your pain," Elsa said. "Really I am. But you must see the damage your own fears are causing on the populace. There has to be a better way to find these killers. You're fighting an uphill battle and will only create enemies where there aren't any."
Souz sighed beneath her mask and asked, "Then what would you have me do?"
"Work with the community," Dia asserted. "The local Umbarans do not appreciate one of their own committing such murderous acts against the Republic either. We'll all work better united if we are to catch these killers. One thing we can all agree on, is that things would only worsen if bounty hunters got involved."
"I concur," Souz answered. "It'll take time to regain public trust, but it's a risk worth taking if it means keeping bounty hunters out of this."
Scraggly, hooded degenerates gathered on a smoggy street where several speeders were parked. The vehicles' dim headlights snuck through the mists as countless spectators babbled in an assortment of languages. Sven's jaw dropped as Kristoff emerged from the shadows. His scarlet jumpsuit matched the speeder he'd be piloting as he cradled a gleaming helmet. "How do I look?" he asked.
"Like lightning," Crujik answered for him. "That's the racer name we're going with, right? Lightning?"
"I like it," Kristoff admitted.
"Good," the Twi'lek chuckled. "Because aliases are a racer's best friend. Or...is it a fugitive's? I can't remember."
"Hey kid!" Patoni hollered. "I added some last-minute modifications to your racer. If your thrusters make sort of a ''Bzzz!' or 'Ka-chow!' sound, don't be afraid to maximize them! But only then. Too soon or early could be...ugly."
Kristoff nodded to the Rodian and gave the rest of the Outcasts a thumbs up. Sven grunted nervously and he simpered. "Don't worry, buddy. I'll be alright."
Crujik's girlfriend was already collecting bets from the spectators while Kristoff entered his speeder. He squeezed into the compact seat and noticed the racer beside him staring over. She lifted her visor so that he could look into her intense, brown eyes. Strands of her wavy black hair swayed across her gaze before she dropped her visor.
"Don't let her get in your head," Crujik lectured. Kristoff gasped because he didn't realize Crujik hadn't left.
"Who is she?" he asked.
"Hades' newest racer. She's fast, but you can beat her."
"Who the hell's Hades?" Kristoff inquired.
Crujik snorted. "He thinks he's some bigshot down here. Calls himself the 'Ruler of the Coruscant Underworld'. Talk about an ego." Crujik gave Kristoff's hood two slams and actually departed. "Go get'em kid!" he hollered as Kristoff sealed the hatch.
After collecting bets, Vivi grabbed a tattered and checkered flag. She twirled it in the street to gather the crowd's attention. "1313!" a grizzly-voiced Zabrak announced. "Who's ready for a race?" Citizens hooted and hollered as he fed off their energy. "We've got quite the show planned for you this evening. Four racers, but only one winner!" he laughed maniacally and pointed towards the first speeder. "Racing for the Raptors, we have Bright Eyes!" A big-headed Bith waved towards the crowd. "For the Krayt-Claws, Hunter is on the prowl!" A furry Bothan snarled before entering his cockpit. The Zabrak smirked and gestured to the next pilot. "We've got fresh blood this evening! Racing for the Outcasts, give it up for Lightning!"
Kristoff sighed beneath his helmet and humbly waved to the crowd. "Ka-chow," he jokingly mimicked the sound Patoni had made.
The announcer chuckled chaotically all over again. "Now you know I like to save the best for last and anyone racing for Hades fits that description. The Ruler's got a new racer calling the shots and she is ready set the streets ablaze. People of 1313, make some noise for SHANK!" The spectators went absolutely ballistic and all Shank humored them with was a nod.
Within moments, the announcer was replaced by Vivi as she spun the checkered flag. "Start your engines!" she roared until her throat went raw. The monstrous rumble of four airspeeders thundered across the street. The powerful controls vibrated in Kristoff's hands while he double-checked his safety buckles. "Ready!" Vivi yelled. Kristoff's booted foot caressed the accelerator. "Set!" He glanced over at Shank, who was completely focused on the road ahead. He too looked at the crumbling street and took a deep breath. "GO!" Vivi shouted. The speeders blasted off around her while her lekku swayed in the wind.
The speeder was faster than anything Kristoff had ever flown. Patoni wasn't kidding about modifications. Every sharp turn had him feeling like he was about to crash. As they soared down the abandoned streets, the occasional citizen would emerge like vermin from a garbage heap. The roar of the racers' engines echoed throughout the alleyways as they soared into formation. Shank easily took the lead with Hunter on her tail. Kristoff and Bright Eyes trailed behind as they rounded another corner.
I know this thing can go much faster, Kristoff confessed to himself. But can I handle it? If I'm going to win, my thrusters-
"Thrusters are everything, lad." Barbossa had once told him. "But think of'em like a knife in yer pocket. The only one who knows the size, shape, and existence of such a weapon...is you. That is, until ya draw it."
Kristoff despised admitting it, but his former mentor was right. He knew his thrusters packed a punch, but he could use it to his advantage if timed correctly. His speeder quaked as Bright-Eyes rammed against it. "There goes the paint job," Kristoff muttered. Bright Eyes turned to ram him again and Kristoff slammed on his breaks. The furious Bith missed him and hovered off of the street. He glanced back to see where Kristoff had gone and found a surprise awaiting him when he faced forward. Bright Eyes screamed as his speeder crashed into a brick wall and toppled several trash cans. An entire horde of tooka cats scattered from the impact and fled into the shadows.
"Serves you right," Kristoff growled and raced to catch up. Hunter was trying to get the lead on Shank, but she was fervently persistent. Fiery decals glowed across her speeder as she expertly weaved through obstacles. Both she and Hunter were caught off guard when the sound of Kristoff's engines rocketed behind them. He soared into position while Hunter desperately tried to ram Shank. She evaded and he spun out towards Kristoff. As he dropped into third place, Hunter resorted to desperate measures.
They were far enough from the finish line that no one was watching. While a seasoned racer like Hunter knew the trick, there was no way Kristoff could've known. The use of weapons was forbidden, even in illegal street racing. But then again, it's all about what you can prove. If Hunter could target Kristoff's engines and cause a big enough explosion, no one would know. The Bothan cackled and flipped a hidden switch beneath his dashboard. A concealed laser turret emerged from the hood of his speeder and a targeting system flashed. "Lightning," he snarled while clasping a trigger. "Meet thunder."
He fired several lasers at the speeder and Kristoff gasped. The steaming projectiles grazed his bumper and force him to take evasive action. "What the hell?" he blurted. "You're all insane!"
Back at the wharf, the communicator in Officer Souz's cruiser activated. "Attention all units. Attention all units," a policeman called in.
Souz rushed over while Elsa, Dia, and Taline looked to each other. "This is Officer Souz. Go ahead."
"We have reports of shots fired in the construction sector."
"By the stars," Dia gasped. "Looks like the killers came to us."
"Let's move it, ladies!" Souz barked and lunged into her cruiser.
Elsa was about to go with Dia when the senator stopped her. "Ride with Souz," she insisted. "She'll get there first and I need you to keep her actions in check."
The Padawan grimaced but ultimately obliged. She slid into Souz's passenger seat and the officer groaned. "This ought to be interesting," she griped while Elsa buckled in. "Hang on, kid." Souz let her sirens blare and accelerated towards the reported incident."
"What's the construction sector?" Elsa asked while they sped.
"The Republic actually tried to repair a portion of 1313 way back when," Souz answered. "That whole project was scrapped when Chancellor Valorum left office and the abandoned sites became a haven for gangs. But mostly for-" As Souz flew towards the area, a set of vehicles soared by at dangerous speeds."-street racing," she concluded and activated her communicator. "All units, this is Souz. I have eyes on three street racers. Laserfire emanating from a black speeder pulling up the rear. Could be our perps. All units converge."
Elsa clenched her seat as Souz accelerated after the racers. It wasn't until the third sharp turn that her motion sickness truly came into effect. Given her political assignment, Elsa didn't once think she'd be chasing criminals in Coruscan't undercity. Therefore, she hadn't packed her motion sickness pills. Unable to resist her rising nausea, Elsa clung for dear life to endure each maneuver.
Hunter kept up a steady rate of laserfire to try and blast his opponent. With the constant threat of getting struck, Kristoff could no longer focus on catching Shank. Each of his evasive maneuvers further infuriated Hunter. The Bothan snarled and tried locking on to him. As soon as he got a fix on Kristoff's speeder, a police cruiser struck his rear. The impact caused his airspeeder to spin out and collide with Souz's cruiser. As they kept him grounded, the underworld police exited their cruisers and swarmed the vehicle.
Elsa hurriedly emerged from her seat to monitor the situation. "Hands where I can see them, scumbag!" Souz yelled while raising her blaster. Realizing he was trapped, the Bothan cautiously raised his hands.
"No," Kristoff gasped while glancing at his rearview mirror. "Not these guys again." Determined to lose the police, Kristoff tried accelerating to the highest speed. He understood that winning the race meant nothing if he just got arrested. While the thrusters didn't make any 'Ka-chow' sound, Kristoff dared to maximize them anyway. His speeder's power was as insurmountable as it was unexpected and he spiraled down the street. Kristoff's head banged against the driver's seat as he struggled to maintain control. The vehicle's engines caught fire and left a trail of billowing fumes in their wake. Vital components separated from the speeder's panels as Kristoff launched forward and lost control. As he paid the price for maximizing the thrusters too early, Kristoff braced for an inevitable impact.
His crash sounded from down the street while Souz saw to Hunter. "The other racer's down!" she shouted. "Dellian. Go get'em!" The Padawan's eyes darted between the crashed speeder in the distance and Hunter being apprehended by multiple officers. "Today, Dellian!" Souz asserted.
Elsa bolted for the crash site while Hunter was dragged out of the vehicle. The Bothan's eyes swayed elsewhere as the officers hoisted him to his feet. In that instant, Hunter used the momentum to elbow one of the policeman and kick the other. He tried to break away when a blue laser zipped through his chest. Souz's kept her smoking pistol trained on the Bothan as he collapsed with a groan.
While she had only heard the shot, Elsa sensed that something horrid had occurred. She persisted towards the downed, scarlet craft and heard a series of strikes. The pilot was trapped in a dented cockpit and the flames were closing in. "Hold on!" Elsa shouted and reached out with the Force. While she kept what flames she could at bay, she realized he still couldn't break free. His tired hands and boots haplessly kicked at the reinforced screen. Thinking quickly, Elsa Force-pushed the flames to buy herself a moment of time and then activated her lightsaber. "Get clear!" The pilot gasped and leaned back as Elsa sliced through the screen. She managed to pull him out just in time and hey rolled off the vehicle's edge. Elsa hardly caught her breath before he grabbed her hand.
"Run!" he yelled through his helmet. The flames engulfed the speeder and reached its fuel tank, prompting a massive explosion to shake the street. A brief shockwave sent Elsa tumbling next to a charred and scraped helmet. As she recovered, she looked upon the soot-faced man she'd rescued.
"Wait," Elsa panted. "K-...Kristoff?" He didn't know whether to be ashamed for his actions or joyful to see her again. Elsa didn't give him a chance to express either as she asked, "What are you doing here? Why are you...doing this?"
Kristoff's heart sank at her words and he bit his chapped lip. "Elsa I-... The rent was-...It-"
It broke him to see her looking so disappointed with him. "I thought we worked together to get you a better life," she said. "A fresh start. This is what you're doing with it?"
"I was fired," Kristoff replied.
"So you resorted to illegal street racing?" Elsa countered. "You're just wasting the chance we fought for!"
"Elsa," Kristoff pleaded. "I didn't mean for any of this."
"No. You didn't mean to get caught," Elsa scolded. "Pirate's life, right?"
"I am not a pirate!" Kristoff retaliated and his voice cracked. "I swear to you, I didn't choose this life."
"At some point, you'll have to accept responsibility and stop pointing fingers," Elsa intoned.
"You're not getting it. How could anyone? You haven't seen what Sven and I have. Our lives have been a struggle from as far back as we can remember. Our families on Aren gave everything just for us to try and make it out alive."
Elsa's furrowed brows relaxed in astonishment. "Aren?" she uttered. "You're from Aren?"
Kristoff nodded solemnly. "And Sven and I were lucky to have made it out. Every day, more and more die wishing they even had the chance to voyage elsewhere. I didn't choose this life of turmoil, but I'm damn well trying to make it work."
Elsa was still hung up on Kristoff's origin and the situation on their shared homeworld. She was about to ask more when she heard police rushing over. Not trusting their methods after what happened to Hunter, Elsa Force-pushed debris out of an alley. "Run," she said as Kristoff glared. "Run!"
"I don't understand," he admitted.
"You can't make anything work from a prison," Elsa said. "I'm giving you another chance. Now go!"
Kristoff dashed away while Elsa used the Force to blanket the area in smoke. She threw herself on the floor as the officers arrived on scene. "What the hell happened?" Souz asked.
Elsa feigned a cough and groggily rose from the duracrete. "The whole speeder exploded," she said.
"That much is clear," Souz snarked.
"I couldn't make it to the driver in time."
Souz glared at the heaping fireballs of scrap and grumbled, "Some Jedi you are."
Elsa never felt she needed Souz's approval, but the ensuing comment would shake her. "Stars above!" Senator Veritaz shrieked while Taline parked their speeder. "What in the...how in the...Elsa!"
"Ma'am," the Padawan addressed her.
"You were supposed to stay with Officer Souz!" Dia growled. Gone was the Corellian's proud demeanor as she brought her fury on the Jedi.
"I ordered her to chase a suspect," Souz defended. "What was left of him anyway. Besides, I handled the other guy."
"You killed him!" Dia snapped. "And don't you dare say-"
"He was resisting arrest?" Souz countered. "He was though."
Dia looked like she was going to claw right through Souz's mask and gauge her real eyes out. "Do you have any idea what you incompetent twits have done for this sector? Done to me now?"
Elsa hung her head while Souz crossed her arms. "I'm sure you'll tell us," the officer murmured.
"The Supreme Chancellor entrusted me to get things under control! And what do I give him?" She glared at Elsa. "What did you let happen? The brutality continues and these killers remain incognito. For all we know, they could've fled into the upper city...or offworld by now!" Dia pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. "As for you, Souz." The senator pointed a finger at the officer's face. "You've demonstrated your unwillingness to use a stun blast for the last time. Mark my words. The Ethics Committee is coming after you and all of your officer friends in the underworld."
"Is that a threat?" Souz jeered.
"Wholeheartedly," Dia doubled down. "Elsa...Taline. We're leaving."
Her handmaiden started up their speeder while Dia reclined in the passenger seat. Elsa sat in the back and was unsure what comforting words to possibly say. "Senator Veritaz," she uttered. "I'm so sorry I-"
"Not now, Elsa." Dia huffed and rubbed her temples. "Just...not now."
Elsa sulked and peered down at 1313. She looked into its maze of shadowy alleys and hoped Kristoff had made it out safely. She knew that all was as the Force willed it to be and that finding him couldn't have been by chance. His words had her thinking on Aren.
Supreme Chancellor Palpatine watched the sun set over his precious city. As darkness loomed over his office, he embraced it with a furtive smile. Mas Amedda's horned silhouette lurked behind him and the Chagrian spoke up. "I take it you're aware of Senator Veritaz's failure in the undercity."
Palpatine rose from his seat and replied, "Indeed. It appears that not even our own Ethics Committee can rein in underworld law enforcement." Regardless of the situation, Palpatine never seemed to sound distressed with the topic. All seemed under control as he continued. "Let us put an end to the chaos here and now. If the people want a safe and securer society, we shall give it to them by bringing these assassins...to justice. Have bounties posted effective immediately."
Mas Amedda bowed his head and departed. He left Palpatine alone with his vast assortment of deepening thoughts. As the Supreme Chancellor stared into the darkened night, one name continued to flow through his mind: Elsa Dellian.
Author's Note: Thank you so much for reading this week's chapter of the "The Frozen Force." As we get even closer to reaching a fifty-chapter milestone, I just want to thank you for all of your love and support! I hope you're enjoying the adventure as Season 2 continues to evolve! What did you think of Elsa's first day as Dia's assistant? Will Kristoff find his place in this world? Stay tuned for more answers on this epic journey!
Tune in next week as Mattias takes Anna and the clones to a "Place of Beginnings." I'll post a teaser for it on Twitter and Instagram later in the week!
Long Live Imagination and May the Force be with You!
~ Michael