Ahsoka, Shaak and the Second Empire – Chapter 6: Sorting Things Out

AN: Shaak starts to "flex" in this installment, and gives Ezra a reality check, while Ahsoka makes a heartfelt connection.

Thanks to new follower: A1sikwrx

Chapter 6: Sorting Things Out

Coruscant, Imperial Palace, 1 ABY 1 month, 15 days, 7 hours

Empress Shaak and Master of the Order Anakin Skywalker were together in her private space in meditation. This was a short 15-minute session, punctuated with some music (see Bach, Keyboard Concerto No. 4, rendered on piano with strings) that helped to raise the awareness of both participants. Anakin could almost feel the tension that he still felt around Shaak being slowly released as the gentle melody with its intricate counterpoint played. He wondered where she found this selection but knew that Shaak only volunteered information when she felt it necessary. As the piece ended, she spoke to him directly.

"Anakin, I'd long wanted to have a session like this with you. From the time you first became a Jedi Knight, I could tell there were currents of insecurity running wild inside you. You took this energy and it fueled your abilities as a leader during the War, but at the same time, fear was awakened inside of you … a fear that he manipulated to gain control over you."

Anakin simply nodded. She was stating the obvious, but clearly she was using it as a preface to lead into her own topic. She continued.

"What I would like to do now is simply ask you why you think this happened."

His face drew taut, as he started to revisit that time, when the War ended and he had been implored by Palpatine to kill Count Dooku. That event seemed to start the downward spiral that led to Darth Vader. At first, he'd tried to stay true to Obi-Wan's teachings, to honor what the Jedi stood for and defend the Republic, but the Chancellor worked on his sense of fairness and how it felt wrong for him to be denied what should have been his.

"It is quite difficult for me to talk about those times, my Empress. I look back now and I feel a profound sense of shame. It was as if I had no control over myself, that the Force was driving me. But I know now that it was all him. I had a premonition in a dream that Padme was going to die. Looking back I also realize that her death was in giving birth to our children, whom I am now so privileged to know. And I also feel regret. Clearly she didn't have to die. He told me I killed her, but I cannot accept that."

Shaak smiled. "Yes. She was quite beloved by many. And we were of course unaware of your relationship with her. One that was not permitted under Jedi rules."

"True, my Empress, unfortunately."

"Anakin, there was some concern on the part of many in the Council about your joining the Order at that time. We felt you were already of advanced age and Master Yoda – and myself, although I tended to keep my opinions private in those days – could detect that you were carrying much fear inside of you. Little did we know then how that would be turned against us."

"If I may ask, your Majesty, what was happening with you on the day that I turned to the Dark Side?"

She stared at him directly and her amulet was glowing red.

"Anakin … what I'm going to tell you now I would prefer you keep confidential. Can you promise me that?"

He nodded repeatedly, hoping she could detect his sincerity.

"Very well. I happened to be in my quarters at the Temple when the alarm came. A friend – you may already know who – contacted me and told me of the danger we all were in. The danger that was coming from you. She said you had lost control and that many of us had already been killed. We made a plan to get off the planet and go into hiding, but not until we had taken almost all of the holocrons in the Temple. Some of course still remain at large in the Galaxy."

Anakin interrupted her at this point as she seemed to pause. "My Empress, I wish to convey my sincere apologies for everything that happened that day. But not all of it was my direct doing. I would have tried to kill you as well, if I had been able to find you."

She looked at him again. "I must tell you, sincerely, that you might well have been successful. My powers are much greater now."

"As you made totally clear on Hoth, my Empress. I believe you reign supreme now and I am honored to stand by your side, along with Maris and Ahsoka."

He took a breath, and noticed Shaak seemed to be waiting for him to continue, as if drawing him out. Somehow, this didn't bother him as it once might have. Being in her presence and feeling more and more relaxed, he found the words to express himself in new ways. Palpatine never seemed to inspire that kind of feeling in him, with little wonder.

"My Empress. We cannot of course undo the past … but we can build a great future for the Galaxy. Regarding the holocrons and the ancient knowledge – how wise you were to keep them secure all these years. The Emperor was always looking for them, as he felt they would unlock even greater powers than he already had."

She nodded, and chuckled. "Indeed. And without them, I could not have accomplished much of what I did."

"Might I ask something else? Something that has been intriguing me."

"Proceed, my friend. Let's get everything out into the open now."

"I knew you were behind the effort to gain the plans for the Death Star, and once you obtained them, you would immediately know how it could be destroyed. I informed Governor Tarkin of this at the time, but he and the other leaders were not interested. They paid with their lives for such folly."

Shaak chuckled again. "They did."

Anakin smiled, feeling more at ease. "So I am wondering. I believe you taught Ahsoka how to use the Force to destroy ships by compromising their internal systems. I had a discussion with Admiral Sloane and Admiral Rax about this very topic."

"Oh?" Shaak feigned surprise. "And what did they tell you?"

"Sloane was the overall commander during the Battle of Hoth. She says that Ahsoka told her that she was directly responsible for two of the Star Destroyers being blown to bits and that she had decided to retreat or maybe her ship would have been destroyed as well. This power was what enabled you to gain the attention of the Emperor and then set him up for destruction as well. I am most impressed at your planning and the way it all came together."

Shaak smiled and nodded. "Go on. I know there's a question here somewhere."

"Would it have been possible to do the same to the battle station – if you did not possess the plans for it?"

Shaak remained silent for a few seconds.

"It very well might have. But at that time, we didn't have the luxury of time. The station was bearing down on our base at Yavin 4 and we had to take the shot we did. I wanted Luke to do it because it would have confounded Palpatine. I couldn't afford to let him think that Ahsoka or I had done it because we were not ready for the confrontation and showdown with him."

Anakin smiled. "A wise course, your Majesty. You had to wait until you had the last overwhelming power to finish him off. Tell me, though … are you ready to divulge exactly what you did to him – and – what happened to him? Is he still alive?"

Shaak's tone softened to just above a hush. Her amulet turned blue again as her serenity took over. "Not at this time, my friend. His disposition is on a need-to-know basis."

Indeed, as they discussed Palpatine, Shaak reflected inwardly on the former ruler and thought it might be a good time to look in on the man. But she gave no indication at all of her thoughts. Still her mind considered Anakin. He's become very clever over the years. It's a quality of his I will need to watch carefully. I know one thing, though, I must keep him occupied.

She changed topics. "Tell me, Anakin. What is it you see – what it is you are fond of – when it comes to Master Brood?"

He smiled at the mention of the name. "My Empress, she is the one person I have found to make me forget how much I loved Padme Amidala. She is like the sun to me, a constant source of warmth and light. Someone I can share my inner thoughts with. I am so fortunate to have found her."

Shaak smiled. "I understand. She and I have been together for over twenty years. Completely loyal to me, as I am to her. That day I met her – it was that same day we left Coruscant together – was the only good thing about how it all ended for the Jedi Order. I am glad that you feel so strongly toward her. She has now become powerful, but your love will make her even stronger. You two together will be my protectors and enforcers – and Ahsoka too shall be fortunate to have you on her side. The four of us will fulfill our mission to the Galaxy and deliver on my promise to bring peace and justice."

Anakin nodded, then stood and bowed deeply to Shaak. "Yes, Madam, we shall do exactly that." He then took his seat again and asked, "so what is your thinking on how to roll up the crime syndicates?"

"We must come to know the full extent of their reach. Everyone understands about the Hutts and Black Sun, but there are other groups to deal with. And the Unknown Regions are a natural redoubt for these groups. We must come to understand exactly what is there. With that in mind, I want you and Maris to prepare to take a journey there soon. There are some other things I need to look into first."

Shaak then stepped into her kitchen and poured some of her favorite cold herbal beverage and offered some to Anakin as well. "I believe this was your favorite, was it not?"

He laughed and happily took the glass from her. "Still the best I've ever tasted. Just another of your many talents, my Empress."

At this point, Shaak was contacted by one of her maidens. She nodded as she answered the com, and replied, "show her in, please."

Soon, Padawan Reema Andujah had entered, wearing a variant of her white satin training outfit, loose fitting garments that made the young girl seem adorably cute. Anakin fixed his gaze on her, noting her lightsabre in particular, and making a mental note to himself. Where have I seen that hilt before …?

Reema came to Shaak, then curtsied. "My Empress, I have some important news." Noticing Anakin, she turned and curtsied to him as well. "Greetings, Master Skywalker."

Shaak gestured to an empty chair. "Have a seat, my child." As Reema settled into the chair, Shaak smiled at her and put her at ease. "You may speak in front of Master Anakin."

Reema looked around the room for a second, then spoke. "A few days ago, I met with my old friend Mister Menoway. I learned that his name was once Mace Windu."

This got Anakin's attention, and he seemed incredulous. "How is that possible? I saw him die with my own eyes. The Emperor pushed him through his window and he fell from two hundred levels up."

Shaak wasn't so sure. "I have more recently felt some different energy in the Force coming from somewhere down below on this planet. I had wanted to understand it better. Perhaps I should pay Mister Menoway a visit."

Reema interrupted. "He knew a lot about you, your Majesty. He said you were very powerful and you used to be a Jedi Master and he had great respect for you."

Shaak chuckled, "did he now?"

"But that's not all!" Reema blurted out. "While we were talking, this other person showed up. She was all in black and looked quite mysterious. When she saw me, she introduced herself. Her name is Lizza. She has great power – I could feel it."

Shaak wasn't laughing after this revelation. "Lizza." She turned to Anakin, who looked surprised and shook his head as if to say it was news to him. "Anything else did she say?" Shaak asked, looking at Reema.

"Only that she was the Enforcer, and the representative of the inter-Galactic Council of the Guides. And her eyes would flash red at times. Kind of like Master Maris."

"Hmm," Shaak seemed to ponder. "Council of the Guides? And now this person feels safe enough to show her face here on Coruscant. Most interesting." She turned to Anakin. "Well then, my friend. It seems as though the Sith – or something like them – still are rampant. How many more might there be?"

Anakin responded slowly. "That remains to be seen. I think we should not draw any conclusions." He then turned to Reema. "Young one, what else did Lizza say?"

She answered, saying "Lizza seems to be interested in lightsabre crystals. Menoway told her she might find some on Jedha. Then Lizza mentioned her queen and said she was tired of excuses."

Anakin paused, then laughed. "A most interesting development. And what did Windu, er, Menoway, say about all of this?"

"Not much," Reema replied. "That I shouldn't worry about it. But I told him that Empress Shaak would be wanting to know."

Shaak then held up her hand to signify the end of this discussion. "I will meditate on this privately. Then I intend to meet with Mister Menoway. Sooner than later. That is all, Padawan Andujah."

Reema stood and again curtsied to Shaak. "Yes, my Empress," she said as she turned to leave.

Shaak focused on Anakin. "Our decision to explore the Outer Rim and the Unknown Regions is now containing more urgency. But now we must proceed with caution. Just a few days ago, a certain Ezra Bridger showed up and he had some news about our friend Grand Admiral Thrawn, with whom he'd spent the past few months before somehow returning on his own to known systems and sectors."

"Did Bridger mention anything about dark forces?"

"He did not," she said softly. "He has been thoroughly debriefed."

Shaak then rose, as did Anakin, who followed her out to her ante-rooms. As she bid him farewell, Shaak realized there were many new developments to consider. Young Andujah is most observant. It might not be a bad idea to keep a closer eye on her.

Lianna, the City – 1 ABY 1 month 21 days, 10 hours

Countess Janne was in the City on a typical fine Liannese morning. She was checking in with her spice shops and the new varietals they had received. After sampling the wares – just a sniff or two, as these could be quite potent – she was satisfied with what Moff Stetmene had been able to provide. As she stepped out of a shop onto the sidewalk of the Avenue of the Heroes, she tapped a couple of times on her comm device and waited for an answer.

"Ah Countess, are we still on for this morning?"

"Yes, dear Marjana. Can we meet at the Santhé Tower?"

"Lovely. That small café on the 10th level?"

"See you soon."

"It's been too long, love."

About 15 minutes later, Janne arrived at the Santhé Princess Café. It was one of a number of small establishments on the 10th level of the Tower, which formed an upscale shopping mall. The prices were steep – a mug of caf went for 20 Imperial credits – but the clientele didn't much care. Baroness Marjana Vekic of Trimpudo was at a table, wearing a soft white fur coat over a sleeveless dark blue dress. The Baroness was considered a "junior noble" as she was only 31 years of age and had taken the title when her young husband, the late Baron, had died mysteriously on another world in the Greater Lianna Sector. She was a bubbly sort, always quick to share gossip and court the favor of higher-ranking nobles such as the Countess of Hordaland. The Trimpudo District was a harshly cold part of the planet, populated by hardy folk that were plain-spoken and welcoming. Marjana reflected this basic personality, but, like many from her homeland, she wanted out and longed to spend as much time as possible away from Trimpudo and in the City. Janne saw her as a potentially useful ally.

As she approached the table, Marjana rose and came to her. They kissed tenderly and hugged.

"It's been a while, since we've been together, dear Janne. Did you miss me?" Marjana fluttered her eyelashes and grinned.

"Very much so, dear," the Countess replied. "Was hoping you were in the City today."

"Oh, Janne… have you scored tickets to the Queen's coronation yet? It's going to be a big social scene this season."

"Absolutely, and I would never forget you. But the hardest ticket is the Crown Princess's wedding – at the Queen's Santhia Palace."

"What a handsome devil that Tri'ku is … and Ahsoka? She is to die for. Such exquisite beauty. The Togruta are so … exotic."

Janne chuckled. "I'm not surprised you're into her. Considering the position of power she now holds in the Galaxy."

"I wasn't even thinking about that … but now that you mention it …"

"Never mind. Marjana, I have an opportunity for you. You're always looking for new sources of income and revenue."

"Yes?" the younger woman smiled, expectantly.

"Some friends of mine are starting up an investment bank. The first office is going to be on The Wheel. Would you like to buy in?"

"I would. How much is a good starting investment?"

"I should say … around 25 million. You're going to do very well. We'll take a trip to The Wheel soon, and get this off the ground."

Coruscant, Imperial Palace – 1 ABY 1 month 22 days

The Empress was alone in her small nook, savoring a warm herbal beverage, and gazing out the small window to the Imperial Square in the distance, when an urge hit her. She drained the beverage, then went to one of her wardrobe rooms. Sorting through the many soft robes, she chose a solid black one, then pulled a bright red silk gown out and changed into the combination. Checking herself in a mirror, she smiled in a satisfied way. Shaak then headed for her small library, which was adjacent to one of her bedrooms (she preferred to sleep in different parts of her private space in the palace for a sense of perspective – just one of many strange habits she was developing as she settled deeper into the role as Empress). Seating herself on a cushion placed on the floor, she commanded the holocron drawer to open, then selected a pyramidal Sith holocron. Closing the drawer, she placed the holocron on the floor in front of her. After a brief phrase in her native Togruti dialect, Shaak reached into the Force and caused to holocron to open. This was one she had spent little time with in the past, but began to study it after starting the transformation of the planet Malachor into Avalonia.

The top-level menu appeared in front of her, and she selected the "Power" category, then a sub-category of "Methods." She exhaled in a satisfied way, and savored the lush softness of her robe, smoothing one of the sleeves with an open hand, then carefully extending her fingertips to touch each fiber. This caused her mind to feel the Force in the original plantings from which the fabric once originated, a special crop on Shili whose plantings she had directed a year earlier. The silks and velvets from this area were thus infused with Shaak's own Force signature. As she did this, the amulet on the chain around her neck gave a soft red glow. Shaak savored the feeling for a full minute, allowing her mind to drift through various ideas. Then she opened the section of the holocron she was interested in.

There were items pertaining to artifacts – one of these was the "thought dowser", a piece from thousands of years earlier from the planet Korriban on the northeastern Outer Rim. Once a key home world for the ancient Sith species, the planet today was a part of Valles's Outer Rim dominions and had been settled in the millennia since by people from various parts of the Galaxy. Shaak made a mental note to seek the existence and location of this artifact, then moved on to other items. It was at this time that she felt a strange presence in the Force, and a voice spoke to her – one that only she could hear.

Greetings, exalted one. You have now become the mighty Empress you were destined to be. This is good. Now take the next step – ultimate power over the Galaxy – so any conflict will end by your command.

Shaak recognized it soon enough. "Traya – I was wondering when you might seek me. I see we no longer are confined to Avalonia."

That is correct, Goddess. By destroying Malachor, you have freed me. I am now your servant wherever you need me. You have only to ask and my wisdom is yours to savor.

"Well then. I will make a note of that. What is your advice for me now?"

Very basic, your Majesty. Gain control of the money power and the entire Galaxy is your possession. And … observe carefully Darth Vesta on Hapes – she is soon to pass into the spirit realm and will be another of your advisors. That is all for now, great Lady.

Shaak sat back, again savoring her soft robe as her mind ran over what she had just learned. The money power. Yes, I have some ideas on that. I will form a committee and charge them with the task of creating a new financial system for the Galaxy. Perfect. But what of 'Darth Vesta' – does Vestalia have a past I need to be aware of?

With that thought, Shaak closed the holocron and placed it back in its place in the drawer, which then slid out of sight back into the wall. She stood, took a couple of deep breaths, and smiled. Time for a return to Shili – soon.

Traveling through hyperspace to Shili – 1 ABY 1 month 27 days

Aboard the Corvala Dawn, Crown Princess Ahsoka traveled, accompanied by her apprentices, Padawan Reema Andujah and Knight Hedala Fardi. They were heading to the planet Shili, where Ahsoka intended to have her brother Mako'ta take her to see their parents. Also making this journey was her fiancé Tri'ku Je'har of Almania. As they closed in on the planet, Ahsoka called Reema and Hedala to join her in the ship's lounge.

"I'm sure that neither of you have been to the place of my birth. I only first returned here with Master Shaak a few months ago and it was wonderful. This is the home of the Togruta people and we have a very nice planet to live on." Ahsoka announced.

"How do they feel about you and Master Shaak now being in power in the Galaxy?" Hedala asked.

"And how do you feel about having such power, Master?" Reema chimed in.

Ahsoka answered Hedala first. "There is a feeling of jubilation on the planet and we have become major celebrities. Privacy is becoming a concern for me here, but everyone has been most polite. We Togruta are often understated people who view things from a distance."

She then turned to Reema. "I am very ambivalent about it. I didn't really ask for this, but now I have come to understand it is my responsibility to the Galaxy and I must back up Master Shaak as she is now the Empress."

Both apprentices remained silent and soon the ship was dropping out of hyperspace. Ahsoka opened a channel to direct the ground control to prepare for her landing, then she contacted her brother.

"Greetings, Mako'ta."

He recognized his sister's sweet voice immediately and was quite pleased. "Sister, dear … how wonderful to hear from you. What may I do for you?"

"I was hoping to visit with our mother and father this time. Have you prepared them?"

"As a matter of fact, I have."

"How did they react to the news that I am coming to see them?"

"Oh, they are quite excited. Everyone knows of your importance now and they are proud of what you have been able to accomplish."

"Wonderful," Ahsoka responded. "We will be down soon. Could you meet me at the spaceport? Landing bay 56. My fiancé is with me and also my two apprentices. Ahsoka out."

She then turned to them. "I think, for this time, it would be better if I meet with them alone. Until I can better understand their current condition."

"We understand, Master," Hedala replied. "Shall we wait on the ship?"

Ahsoka nodded. "Yes, that will be fine. I will call ahead when I am ready to return."

They soon landed, and Ahsoka had changed into a long formal dress, per Togruta custom. She wanted to make the right impression on her parents as they likely knew little about her other than what had been in media reports. She summoned a speeder, which then took her to the medical center where they had been living for quite some time.

Upon arrival, she was greeted with deep bows and many wanted to kiss the hand of the lovely Crown Princess. Ahsoka, still somewhat shy about such adulation, was nevertheless becoming more accustomed to it. She thanked everyone and two medics escorted her upstairs to the floor where her parents were living. As she got off the lift, her brother came over to her and bowed, then kissed her hand when she extended it. Both siblings were a little shy about directly embracing, but Mako'ta dearly wanted to express his happiness that his sister was there. Ahsoka simply smiled.

"A few details first, Ahsoka." Mako'ta stated. "Our mother's name is Ala'ka, and our father's is Koto'ma. They are each 75 years old and suffer from illnesses they incurred over the past 10 to 15 years. Mother has trouble breathing and her hearing is failing, as her chest and throat must be drained every 12 hours. Father's heart is weak and he is often under sedation so he won't get too excited. They both told me that their supreme wish is to see you."

Ahsoka, upon hearing this, looked back at her brother with her eyes wide open and her face drawn taut. "I don't know what to say. This is so sad. I really wish I could have found them earlier. As you know, I came to Shili with Master Shaak last year for about 8 days. I dearly wanted to find out what happened to all of you, and I had no idea that I had a brother. Finally, Shaak's brother Tuuk was able to get information and he followed up with my friend Frehya Lumoxa. Otherwise, I would still not know. I suppose it's better late than never."

Ahsoka was close to tears, but she knew she had to hold it together when she went in to see them.

"Are you all right, sister?" Mako'ta asked gently.

"I'll be fine."

He nodded and then led her in to their parents' room. It was a medium-sized unit, with a decent view of Corvala out the window from the seventh floor. Their beds were fairly close together so they could feel each other's presence through their feeble Force sensitivity. Ala'ka had just awakened and she started coughing, while her husband was heavily sedated, though his eyes were open and appeared to be watching the programming from the holo-vid network across the room.

Her mother spotted her as Mako'ta moved aside, and her recognition was almost instant. Despite having not laid eyes on her daughter for 34 years – and then, she was only a toddler – Ala'ka Tano knew who it was and her face became joyful. She stopped coughing and reached her arms out as Ahsoka came to her bedside. Ahsoka reached her hand out, which her mother grasped feebly.

"Hello, Mother. It's me," was all Ahsoka could manage, while her father in the adjoining bed had stopped looking at the screen and had turned his head to face his daughter. He slowly began to smile. Mako'ta looked on, also smiling, while looking up at the ceiling as if in some imagined gratitude that his parents could have at least some joy in the time they had left. It had been a hard life for both of them as they had sacrificed almost everything to get him a good education and the kind of occupation that paid well. In turn, he had spent much of his savings in looking after them and getting them at least a modicum of comfort in this facility for what appeared to all intents and purposes to be their last days as both their conditions were steadily worsening.

"My Ahsoka …" her mother said feebly, her voice wavering. "I am so happy to see you. How have you been?"

Ahsoka was again close to tears, but she inhaled deeply and tilted her head back so they wouldn't start.

"I'm very well, Mother. I'm also very happy. I've searched for you."

"I understand you are now the Galactic Princess – how great is that! – and someone named Shaak is the Empress … she's also Togruta like us. This is a good thing, yes?"

Her mother started to cough again, then reached for the control panel on the side of her bed, causing the head and shoulder section to incline somewhat, helping the fluid in her lungs to drain down a bit.

Ahsoka squeezed her hand gently. The old lady's lekku had faded badly over the years and were now a pale blue in the striped sections. Her father's lekku were a barely discernable gray. Both of their montrals had started to wilt somewhat, with the source of internal pressure that normally kept them upright having lessened greatly. Ahsoka turned to look at her brother, as if to say, what can we do?

Koto'ma Tano wanted to also make contact with his daughter, which Ahsoka could plainly see, so she came over to his bedside and reached out to him as his right arm extended to touch her hand. She softly stroked his hand and reached over to give him a kiss on the cheek. As she pulled away, he looked at her with a feeling of pride but was unable to mouth the words. Mako'ta told her that their dad's speech capability had faded over the past two years, but that he could read as his eyes were still working well. Ahsoka told him she would dictate a book for him describing her life so far, including her time in the Jedi and what happened after, leading up to when she connected with Shaak and her rise to the position of Crown Princess. After a couple of tender moments between them, Ahsoka returned to her mother's side.

"I think that would be a wonderful thing, dear daughter," Ala'ka opined. "Your father will be overjoyed to know all about your life. So will I. Take care of yourself, our beloved Ahsoka."

Ahsoka wanted to spend more time with them, but Mako'ta and the nurses said they needed to rest. Clearly, the meeting had been very uplifting for both of them. She kissed both her parents and told them she would be back, then left the room with her brother.

"Mako'ta, I would like to ask the Empress if it might possible to alleviate their condition. She is very knowledgeable about medicine and the life forces. I hate seeing them suffer like that, but I was glad that my presence helped them feel better, if only for a time."

"Dear sister, anything you could do would be most welcome. Having you here has given them a reason to keep living. If the Empress can help, we would be forever in her debt."

Ahsoka smiled, then took her brother's hands in hers and they exchanged Force energy. Even though hers was far more powerful, he was able to return with his own surge – a feeling that started to deepen the bond between them.

"I want to know you better, sister Ahsoka. You are such a great lady now in the Galaxy, and I am beginning to see why."

"That would be nice," she replied. "Come with me now, and meet the man I am to marry soon, and also my two strong young apprentices."

"It would be my pleasure," he responded. The two Tano siblings left the hospital together and returned to the spaceport and boarded Corvala Dawn.

"You already know Tri'ku Je'har, my fiancé. This is Hedala Fardi, from Thabeska, and Reema Andujah, from Coruscant."

All shook hands, and Mako'ta happily kissed both apprentices' hands. Hedala felt honored, while Reema was a bit embarrassed. No one had ever offered to do that for her up to that point in her short life. But Mako'ta – who clearly was something of a charmer – explained how it was a Togruta custom and that he was surely honored to be around such lovely young ladies. Reema smiled and asked if she could touch his lekku, which he happily obliged.

"They're just like Master Ahsoka's … very light and soft. Why do your people have these?"

She seemed sincere in her inquiry, and Mako'ta answered, "I really don't know, other than we always have. Some say they helped us be better hunters, centuries ago. But I'm not an expert on our history."

He turned to his sister. "So when are you two having your wedding?"

She smiled. "Very soon ... right Tri?" She made a gesture with her head in Je'har's direction.

"Correct as usual, my love," he laughed.

Mako'ta smiled at him. "You're a military man, that right?"

Tri'ku nodded. "Yep, pretty much a lifer, until your sister came along. Now I've got some options."

Mako'ta turned back to Ahsoka. "How would you like for me to be the one to give you away at the ceremony? Or does that strike you as a bit awkward?"

She laughed, tossing her head back, as her lekku wriggled around. "Awkward? You don't know me very well yet, dear brother. My entire life is a symphony of awkwardness."

While the three of them laughed together, Reema nodded toward Hedala and they walked out together onto the landing pad. The blonde Knight then smiled at her fellow apprentice.

"You know, with all the thought I've been giving my own wedding, and your role in it, I've wondered if you ever had time to look for that special someone. You have so much to offer. You're pretty, quite smart, and a very strong Force user."

Reema leaned back and laughed heartily. "Never a moment. So do I look lonely to you, Dala?"

"Of course not," she deadpanned. "But I'm eager to see who the lucky guy is that lands you."

"Well, you'll have some time on that … I wouldn't hold my breath."

Both of them laughed together.

An hour or so later, Ahsoka and Mako'ta emerged from the ship. They clasped hands and he walked away, hailing a speeder that would take him home. As he got in, he shot Reema a glance and smiled at her. "May the Force be with you, young one."

She smiled in return, but inwardly, felt as confused as ever as her basic insecurity dominated. Why does everyone want to be so nice to me …?

Coruscant, 1000 Republika block – 1 ABY 2 months, 2 days, 21 hours

Anakin and Maris were having a romantic evening at a top-level eatery in the swanky district some 200 levels above the surface of the planet below. Having dined on some delicious Zabrak-style cuisine that Maris had instructed the chefs on days earlier, they were ordering some of the Detanka with a sweet tart-like treat to enhance its flavor. As Anakin pushed his chair back from the table a half metre or so, he let out a sigh of contentment.

"Mmmmm … How good it is to be able to eat real food again, without that infernal mask."

Maris smiled, then took his hand in hers. "Only the best for you, my love. I'm so glad they got it right in the kitchen."

The Detanka arrived and Anakin took the lead, deftly using the Force to serve both himself and his paramour, while she eyed the dessert with anticipation. They toasted each other, then the greater success of the Empire, and of course, to the Empress as well.

After they had finished their treats, Maris suggested a round of Spice but Anakin declined.

"Some other time, my dear," he smiled as she drew near to him and he gently fingered one of her many horns. "I want to be wide awake for what comes next."

"Very well," she said with a grin, then leaned in to kiss him.

"I have something planned for us tomorrow," he noted. "I think you're going to like it. We've had such a busy schedule. It's time to get away for a bit."

Maris was wearing one of her many bright red dresses this particular evening and the way its reflective surfaces caught the candlelight in the room made him more excited than ever. As much as he had loved Padme, all those years ago, he found his new love even more satisfying. Here was a woman that radiated raw desire and she also had just a whiff of Dark Side enchantment to her. He might not get much sleep this night …

From her point of view, Maris had never known what it was to truly fall in love – with anyone – but when it started to happen, nothing had ever felt more natural to her. Anakin was exciting, passionate, and filled with a moody angst that fired her desire. Their lovemaking sessions were wild and adventurous and she vowed that no one else would ever love him the way she did. But Maris was also a very patient individual, one that was used to waiting a long time to get what she wanted. Master Shaak had instilled this discipline in her, and it had always served her well. But to be in this position – to finally know what real love was, and at the same time, to still be able to serve her beloved Master Shaak – who could ask for anything more?

As they got up from the table, he took her hand in his and led her out of the restaurant, while the staff wished him well.

"Good evening, Lord Skywalker and Lady Brood. May we be able to serve you again soon," the captain said firmly. They nodded to him and walked to the lift together, Maris looking over her shoulder with a sly grin.

Coruscant, Imperial Palace, 1 ABY 2 months, 5 days, 9 hours

Ezra Bridger had arrived a full hour ahead of time at the Palace. Before he headed upstairs, he'd wanted to get a closer look at the many names and plaques upon the "Jedi Wall of Fame" and was hoping he might find one dedicated to his late friend and mentor, Kanan Jarrus. He didn't find Kanan, but while looking, he found many other names that he'd heard about or even had the good fortune to meet. Obi-Wan Kenobi, whom he'd met on Tatooine while going there to warn him about Maul and the Zabrak's penchant for revenge. Qui-Gon Jinn. Mace Windu. Kit Fisto. Ki-Adi Mundi. Anakin Skywalker, whom Kanan had talked about, as well as Ahsoka Tano, who had her own plaque, prominently displayed. And Maris Brood. This last one intrigued him. He'd heard the name before, from some of the Stormtroopers aboard the ISD Chimaera. Yes, the Empress sure knew how to honor some great names from history.

He had gone to her ante-room and was patiently waiting for her, as she had sent word to him that she desired a brief meeting.

Finally, the Empress appeared, in a wispy pink gown that fluttered behind her. Ezra rose immediately and waited for her to come up to him, whereupon he bowed deeply, then took her hand to kiss gently as she proffered it.

"Rise, my son," she chuckled. "Good to see you. How are you feeling?"

"Well, your Majesty."

"I'm sure you are dying of curiosity to learn why I took time from my packed schedule to meet with you."

"Permission to speak freely, your Majesty?"

Shaak laughed out loud as her gown swayed and her lekku jiggled. "Why not? Sure, kid."

Ezra took a deep breath and ventured. "I had been training in the ways of the Jedi … but I'm now hearing they don't exist anymore and that your Order has taken their place. May I join that Order, and would I be good fit?"

Shaak smiled, while stifling further laughter. "Let's talk about that, shall we?"

She proceeded through a portal to his left and he followed her until they came to the small training room that she had earlier brought Reema.

"I must confess I am largely ignorant about your background with the Force and the late Kanan Jarrus. Perhaps you might explain?"

Ezra looked around the room, then back at Shaak.

"Kanan trained me as well as he could, and he had a Jedi holocron. I have some basic ability and some skill with a lightsabre."

At the mention of a holocron, Shaak's expression turned more serious.

"Mr. Bridger, do you know where that holocron may have gone? I don't suppose you took it with you on the trip with Admiral Thrawn?"

"No, your Majesty. I think it's probably still with Kanan's things on the Ghost. Hera should be able to find it for you."

"Do you happen to recall who his master was before the Purge? I don't remember much about him from my time back then."

"I believe it was Depa Billaba."

"Ah yes," Shaak sighed. "Another former member of the Council, with me. And another victim of Order 66, Palpatine's plot to finish the Jedi."

Ezra nodded. "Kanan told me about all of that. That time when we met with you on Atollon, he was surprised to hear that you had somehow survived. He told us that the official story was that Vader killed you on Coruscant, near the Jedi Temple."

Shaak laughed. "That was my plan – to make the Emperor think I had died, so he wouldn't come looking for me later. And of course, Anakin didn't want him to think he had failed, so he went along with it." Shaak paused, and smiled at the young man. "I think Master Depa trained him well. It was a pity, however, that Kanan never got to complete his training under me."

Ezra looked into Shaak's coal black eyes, and saw a hint of kindness as he reached out to her through the Force. He could feel her allowing him to penetrate.

"Master – if I may call you that – how may I complete my training … under you?"

She smiled again, and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"I sense many unresolved feelings in you. Please, give me your hands."

As Shaak took his hands, she sent her customary flow of warm Force energy into him and he immediately had conflicting thoughts. Part of him was fearful over her great power, but gradually, her warmth started to soothe him. As she continued to hold his hands, he started recalling various scenes from his past, including his meeting and working with Ahsoka. She then let go. Ezra waited, expecting her to speak.

Shaak then produced her own sabre and showed it to Ezra, who looked it over carefully.

"This lightsabre seems very unique. I can feel something in it."

"Very good, young man. I am pleased with your abilities thus far. You have already come a long way in your understanding with the Force. But tell me something. Did Emperor Palpatine attempt to connect with you recently, before his retirement?"

Ezra thought about it, then the scene came back to him clearly.

"Yes. It was a bit frightening, though he looked different than I had expected. Somehow he brought my parents into it, but I knew he was playing a trick on me. I'm sure he wanted me to turn to the Dark Side."

Shaak nodded. "That was exactly what he wanted. But you saw through that. Very good. Jarrus has given you some good insights."

"Master – why did the Emperor retire and turn the Galaxy over to you?"

She chuckled. "That is something between Palpatine and myself. Even Ahsoka does not know the full story. But I find your interaction with him to be curious. It was as if he saw the promise in you. A while ago, I asked if you knew why I wanted to meet with you today. I see perhaps you did not. Let me tell you, then. Mister Bridger, there is potentially great power in you. Sheev wanted to harness that for himself – because he was starting to lose confidence in Anakin. If he could have turned you, he might have wanted you as a new apprentice."

Ezra shrugged. "I could never have joined him. It would dishonor everything Kanan stood for and tried to teach me. Now I want to honor you, my Empress. You inspire me. You are beautiful, strong, and kind hearted. This galaxy is so lucky to have you."

Shaak laughed again. "Son, I hope you are correct. I have so much to live up to now. Someday, I will tell you of my years in seclusion after the Jedi Purge, but one thing I had then was time, a great amount of it. And I took that time to carefully lay out my plan."

"Did you see yourself becoming Empress?"

"Not for a very long time. Originally, I wanted to reestablish the Republic, but the more I thought about it, the less sense it made to me. This Galaxy is not ready for that right now. Ezra, if you are serious about joining the Order – and I think you can become a fine Knight someday – you will begin to study history and know what happened in the past that brought us to where we are. A Member of the Order is about much more than fighting and swordsmanship, it's about knowledge as well and how to use it."

"I really want to live up to that. When Kanan died, I wondered if I was ever going to finish my training."

Shaak patted him on the shoulder, and smiled. "It will continue now. I'd like to see what you've got. You didn't bring your sabre so I will give you a training model for now. But in the future, when you come to the Palace, I want to see you with your weapon. The Order is just like the Jedi in this respect. We must always, always, be ready."

In the blink of an eye, Shaak had shucked off her gown and was standing in the center of the training floor, clad in black satin shorts and an exercise bra, and holding her lit sabre aloft. Into Ezra's hand flew a blue-bladed training sabre which had been set to non-lethal intensity. Before he knew what was happening, the Empress slashed quickly at him, forcing Ezra back on one foot. He recovered quickly and brought his blade up to meet hers. A blade lock ensued, broken by Shaak after about five seconds. She stepped sideways, then pirouetted on her right foot and stepped forward with sharp angular thrusts that again caught him by surprise. Scrambling to come up with some kind of response, Ezra's instinct was to go into a defensive posture, one that gave him enough time to see her moves in advance, so he could at least parry. Then Shaak made some quick finger moves that spun him around and he lost his balance and fell to one knee. As she approached with her sabre ready to finish him off, he did a barrel roll on the floor and got to safety. He knew it was silly to think he could get away from her and so got to his feet and thought to try to go on the attack. This didn't work out so well either, as Shaak viciously cut him off with short and sharp strikes, but then hung back, waiting for his response.

For about five minutes, Shaak continued to toy with Ezra, exploring his abilities. He started to tire, so she went in for a killing blow, putting him on his back. She then switched off her blade and helped him up. Ezra felt foolish but was in awe of her ability. He bowed to her humbly.

"My Empress, you are an amazing swordswoman. I doubt few could beat you."

Shaak chuckled. "Young man, as you may see, there is a great deal to learn. And you shall have the chance. I am going to send you to Felucia to train under Knight Cobo. He will get you in shape to start becoming a Member of the Order. I will recognize the ability you already have, along with your truly impressive Force sensitivity, and you shall start out at Padawan First Degree."

"Thank you, your Majesty. I am honored."

"Get your things ready. Tomorrow you leave with Padawan Andujah and Knight Lumoxa. One thing that will be a part of your new life in the Order is frequent travel. But today you have impressed me. Take pride in your accomplishments."

Shaak, by this time, had already pulled her gown back on, and had collected the training sabre from Ezra. She then led him out of the training room and back to her ante-room.

Before dismissing him, she placed a hand on his shoulder and gave him further words of encouragement.

"Good luck to you, Padawan Bridger. I look forward to seeing your progress."

He bowed silently to her and as he walked away he called out, "Thank you, My Empress. I will make you proud."

To be continued …