The royal wedding about to go down. But other things are taking place as well, as new connections are made, while old ones are remade.
Chapter 9: Reconnecting
Almania, Ahsoka's personal residence, 1 ABY 2 months, 22 days
Tri'ku Je'har and Princess Ahsoka Tano returned to the place they had first met, over three years ago. Almania was an inhabited world in the Northeastern reach of the Outer Rim, not far from Avalonia and the Corporate Sector. Ahsoka first went there after her confrontation with Darth Vader on what had been known as Malachor – the barren world that Shaak had transformed into Avalonia. She and Tri'ku had come to know each other as she had become a defense consultant to the Almanian military that needed her earlier expertise from when she'd been a military commander during the Clone War. Gradually the two fell in love. Je'har originally was attracted to her exotic Togruta looks and then fell hard for her strong and forceful personality that was covered with a veneer of cautious uncertainty. Ahsoka was drawn to his sense of decency that was wedded to his strong presence as a military leader.
The Almanian spring was under way and the two of them were enjoying a night together that had begun earlier with a barbecue of some local meat. One thing they had in common was a carnivorous diet and a need to wash it down with brewed grain beverages. Almanian ale and lager were popular in the region and the planetary barons of the Corporate Sector were big investors in the local breweries. Ahsoka was happy to be back at her home on the planet, as it had been over a year since she had visited it. Everything was still in good order, as the servants were still in her employ and Ahsoka hated having to terminate anyone's livelihood. Good jobs on the planet were hard to come by as Almanians mostly knew a hardscrabble existence where everyone pulled his or her weight and that spirit had helped to tame what was a harsh environment much of the year where the average temperatures were well below zero (Celsius).
After they had finished their meal, they came into the main living room and plopped down on the sectional seating area together for some cuddling and reflection. The first topic was the upcoming wedding.
"So ..." She began. "It's really about to happen, huh?"
He chuckled. "All you ever wanted, right?"
She rolled her eyes and tossed her head back a bit as her lekku danced around a little. "Yeah. I guess it's all on auto-pilot now. Good old Valles."
"Riiiight ..." He laughed. "I often wonder how she gets it all done. Either she's an absolute organizational genius, or she's got everybody fooled. But what does the Empress think? That's the only opinion that matters."
Ahsoka laughed. "Normally I would tell you that I know. In this case? Shaak hasn't told anyone – that I'm aware of. But I like Valles, and I thought you did, too. Am I wrong?"
"No. She's delightful. Very easy to like. And of course, Shaak can take care of herself."
Ahsoka nodded, and wanted to change the subject.
"Love, have you decided what role you want to fill in the Empire? Perhaps with Anakin and Maris in the ISB?"
He nodded. "Anywhere that I can be close to you. So being based on Coruscant wouldn't be so bad. We can stay in the Palace together."
She laughed. "Yeah ... I'll bet you could get real comfortable living there. Maybe pick out a new ship for your duties as well, hmm?"
Tri'ku turned to her, and planted a kiss on her lips while caressing her right lek. "Sounds good to me. I don't suppose you want me using Corvala Dawn ..."
"Not so much," she chuckled. "But, love, I suppose we ought to consider more of the guest list for the affair. I've received a communique from a dear friend from my past – Clone Captain Rex. He's getting on in years, considering they age at double the normal human rate. He heard about my wedding and was really hoping to be there."
"I hope he can make it. Send him my information and we'll invite him to the bachelor party …"
Ahsoka laughed at this. "He'll probably like your Almanian buddies."
Coruscant – Imperial Palace, 1 ABY 2 months, 25 days, 8 hours
Shaak rose early on this particular morning and went to her personal training area within her private apartments at the Palace. She hit the weights hard and worked off some tension. The Empress wanted to clear her head as various events were starting to weigh on her a bit. Her Togruta maidens Emu and Tuu were there to assist with certain aspects of the workout. After finishing her lifting sessions, Shaak practiced a while with her lightsabre and first worked on her acrobatics for Form 4, then Form 6, which integrated Force pushes and draws into the blade-work. The latter technique was of greater interest to her as she wanted to prepare for possible future confrontations. The apparent return of the Sith had served to concentrate her mind as she knew in her heart that it would be up to her to carry the load against them at some future point.
When her sabre sessions were finished, her maidens attended to washing and soaking the Empress, and Shaak then relaxed for about 15 minutes in the heated tub. She thereupon was dried off and helped into a plain white robe that was suitable for a short meditation session before she then went to her dressing area and chose a shimmering black gown and then wrapped herself in twin satin robes of dark green and royal blue. At this point, she was ready for her morning meal and her guest had arrived in the ante room.
Shaak personally went to greet her old friend, Master Jocasta Nu, who had arrived looking elegant in a brown and black patterned robe over a similar gown. The two of them hugged happily, and Shaak graciously led the Chandrilan to her intimate dining area, just off the Empress's master bedroom. Taking her seat, Jocasta sighed contentedly, delighted to be with her dear friend for the first time since the Coronation.
The maidens then brought the first course, a small green salad made from Felucian vegetables and some strips of dried fish from the planet Vaynai. Shaak had made a point of always having a wide variety of delicacies and staples from her favorite cuisines of the Galaxy and had developed a fine sense of taste, but the meals always consisted of meats, vegetables and fruits, which were the traditional fare of the Togruta. Glasses of delicious fruit juice were also served.
"Well, my friend," Jocasta chuckled. "You certainly have made yourself at home, Your Majesty. And may I say, your exquisite taste has now been brought to Coruscant – something it sorely needed."
"Ha-ha ..." Shaak laughed as she pleasantly tossed her head back a bit, feeling more relaxed. "Jo, we've much to discuss. I thought it only proper that we enjoy ourselves."
The Empress took a deep breath and exhaled. "I'm sure you have kept abreast of the developments. Queen Valles has organized things beautifully. I am always up to date on the progress of my administration, and she sees that I have full daily briefings. Anakin and Maris have taken the lead at the ISB and the military is being molded to my design. I have given the top officers a full list of my expectations and we had a useful meeting last month. And now we have convened both houses of the legislature."
"Shaak, I can see you are enjoying this." Jocasta laughed softly. "I won't even ask how the government is going ... and if you are confident in the information you are receiving. I've wanted to meet with Queen Valles again and better get the measure of her, but I suppose she is rather busy most of the time."
"Yes ..." Shaak smiled, a bit insouciantly as she smirked.
Jocasta continued. "But if I might ... what is on your mind this particular morning?"
"Two things, Jo. First, it seems our old friend Master Windu has turned up. He is scheduled to arrive later this morning."
Jocasta gasped. "Are you quite certain it's really him?"
"I'll know for sure when I see him. He will be meeting us on the 10th level – just downstairs. And also – it seems we have some new developments. My young Acolyte, Padawan Andujah, has reported the presence of someone that quite resembles a Sith Lady. It was she who also alerted me to Mace's return."
Shaak continued to smile in a contented manner, as she wiggled slightly to indulge in the feel of her luxurious garments. "So what do you think of all that?" The Empress chirped.
Jocasta took it all in stride. "A full plate you always have, my dear Shaak. Do you think it's really a Sith, though?"
Shaak turned serious for a second. "I have reason to think so."
She then filled Jocasta in on the strange happenings at the former Jedi Temple, and also what Anakin and Maris had reported to her earlier about their experience on Mustafar.
Jocasta furrowed her brow as she contemplated these events. "Shaak, is it as they used to say – that Dark will rise to meet Light – and if so, are you the Light it has already detected?"
"I can't say for certain. I now wonder if those three figures are truly conscious of me, where I am, what I'm doing ... I am not afraid, however. Somehow I knew such a thing would happen."
The two sat silently as the maidens cleared away the dishes and then brought the second course of the morning meal – a toasted filet of the loin of some unidentified beast – which Emu carefully sliced into tender strips for Shaak and Jocasta to savor. A sweet and spicy dipping sauce was also provided, while the ladies' glasses were replenished with more fruit juice. She then excused herself with a curtsy and Shaak resumed speaking.
"So there you have it ... three Sith Ladies – or at least I am supposed to think." Shaak half chuckled and half scoffed.
Jocasta pondered it for a bit. "Shaak ... any chance that you might be able to summon that image or transmission again? I mean, are your recording devices in the old Temple still functioning?"
The Empress thought for a second herself, then answered. "I should think so. Yes, it might be quite interesting to learn. I had set it up to transmit the images and sounds to Felucia, but I can now access that stream here."
They soon finished the meal and then rose from the table as Emu and Tuu returned to tidy things up. They both curtsied as Shaak and Jocasta left the room. The Empress led her friend through a couple of doors and they entered her small library. Shaak sat on her repulsor bench and invited Jocasta to join her. She then waved her hand and a screen descended from the ceiling, one that was Force sensitive. Shaak quickly flicked through various control selections and eventually came upon the Temple recordings. The place had been more or less empty since Palpatine left it, and upon her Coronation, Shaak ordered it sealed and Maris carried out her wishes, leaving a company of security officers to enforce the Empress's orders.
Jocasta continued to watch as Shaak searched through the directory of recordings to find the date and hour that she desired. The playback function was engaged and soon the holo image of Empress Su, flanked by Lizza and Magnifica, appeared. Shaak then froze the stream so they could examine the image.
"Quite remarkable, isn't she?" Jocasta intoned.
"Which one?"
"Oh, the massive woman in the middle. There is something about her … something familiar … but I cannot recall more than that. Shaak … might I go to Felucia and comb your archives? Something in them might jog my memory."
Shaak smiled while she thought about this, then responded. "Alright … I would be fine with that. Frehya will accompany you so she can open the vault. I suppose tomorrow might be a good time."
"It's a 12-hour trip to Felucia so I won't be returning quickly."
"No matter. These people have kept themselves secret for a very long time. But I spoke with Sheev about ten days ago and he confirmed that he knew about one of them – the tall one in white you see here. And Padawan Andujah has also met the one in black. But the third one, no one knows anything about her."
Jocasta nodded, then asked, "how is the former chancellor getting on?" with a chuckle.
Shaak laughed in response. "He seems well, given the circumstance. In fact, he was more than willing to assist me. The likelihood is he's rather bored on Avalonia."
"Maybe he should take up a sport …" Jocasta grinned.
Shaak smirked in response. "He will be of use to me in time …"
"When is Master Windu supposed to see you?"
Shaak checked an antique wall clock she kept in the library. "Should be soon. Let's prepare to meet with him. This ought to be interesting."
Coruscant – Imperial Palace, 1 ABY 2 months, 25 days, 10 hours
Upon the appointed hour, Mister Menoway had arrived at the Palace and made his way to Shaak's ante room. To make a proper impression, he chose a dark suit with a light inner tunic. He was reasonably tall, about 1.9 metres, and the jacket reached to his knees. As Mace Windu, he had carried himself in a basic uniform of brown garments of various shades, and usually always had a stern or serious look on his face. After he had gone into hiding during Palpatine's reign, he adopted a new identity and assumed the guise of a studious individual, mostly concerned with Galactic history and various sciences. At times, he took on students and acted as a tutor, but presented himself with an avuncular disposition, usually good natured, while being quiet and friendly. Wealthier residents of Coruscant paid him to teach their children, which afforded him a modest living on the lower levels of the planet.
Menoway was a compassionate individual, just as he was during his Jedi years, and the plight of orphaned and abandoned children living on Coruscant was one of his primary concerns. This was how he came to know the young Reema Andujah, a resourceful young girl then about seven years of age that he often mentored, especially when it became clear to him that she was Force adept. Eventually, he gave her his lightsabre once she had indicated interest in becoming serious about using her talents. Though he was always proud of his past as a Jedi Master, Menoway did not expect to be doing anything with those talents as long as Palpatine and Vader were in charge of the Empire.
But now, surprisingly, his old friend from the Jedi Council, Shaak Ti, had somehow taken Palpatine's place on the Imperial throne and Vader was no more, having been miraculously transformed back into his old self as Anakin Skywalker. Once Shaak had emerged as Empress, Menoway knew that it might be possible for himself to emerge. When she reached out and invited him to her newly constructed palace, he knew that Reema had been the one to inform Shaak of his existence. As he sat in the ante room, sipping a smooth herbal tea that had been brought to him by a young Togruta maiden, he was greatly looking forward to seeing his old friend again.
Presently, Shaak appeared, still clad in her morning ensemble, entering the room as the portal opened, and Jocasta Nu was trailing behind her. Menoway rose from his seat and waited for her to reach him. Shaak then thrust out her right hand, whereupon he bowed and took it to kiss gently. Though Shaak had never expected this type of deference as a Jedi, he could immediately discern that she had changed greatly from those days – and, in any event, as Empress, she certainly deserved great respect.
"Good morning, Master Windu," Shaak intoned gently. "It has been a long time."
He smiled, somewhat wincingly. "Indeed it has, Your Majesty."
"I imagine you have more than a few questions for me," Shaak chuckled. "In good time, I shall answer them. But at the moment, I have a few for you, old friend."
Seeing her opportunity, Jocasta came forward and exchanged bows with him. They smiled briefly at each other, but exchanged no words.
"Would you excuse us, Jo?" Shaak asked, feeling Menoway would prefer to meet with her in private.
"Of course, milady."
"We're not done. I will signal you."
Menoway then followed the Empress back to her small library and then took a seat while Shaak faced him from her repulsor bench. After an awkward moment, he spoke first.
"So, Master Ti, what may I do for you?"
She laughed. "It's Grand Master, now. In your absence, I have founded a new organization, which I call simply The Order."
"I never realized you had political ambitions, your Majesty ..." he said, placing emphasis on that last word. "Despite your outward appearance as the model Jedi … I knew that inside, you were quite the non-conformist."
Shaak laughed again. "Ah, Master Mace. You don't know how often I dreamed this moment might come. And may I say, you've been taking care of yourself in the interim."
The Empress paused for a moment, while Menoway smiled at her.
"You, on the other hand, Shaak, look better than ever. As if the years just flew by and here you are, a Galactic celebrity, with your face all over the holo-vid. Are congratulations in order?" It was his turn to chuckle this time.
Shaak smiled. "I suppose … I should thank you for that. It's nice to talk to someone … person to person … but we have some business to discuss. I understand that the Sith are on the rise again. No sooner do I put Sidious down and three more rise in his place. It's the way of the Force, yes?"
"Three more? I am acquainted with one, and she refers to her 'Queen' but that's all."
"That one, she told you of the Unknown Region, correct?"
"That's right. And, I suppose you've been talking to young Reema, so you know about the Kyber crystal."
Shaak nodded and her expression grew serious. "Mace, what do you suppose she wanted with it? And why would you oblige her?"
Menoway paused for a second. "Shaak, my aim was to put her more at ease. If she felt I could be a trusted source, I thought she might open up to me. It wasn't hard to see that her Force ability was substantial. The lady has a certain swagger about her – I found her attractive in many ways."
Shaak laughed inwardly but remained serious. "I'm not sure this was the best course of action … but, no matter. The Force is telling me I may be meeting all three of them soon."
"Why do you think there are three?"
She went on to explain about the images she had discussed with Jocasta. He listened, then nodded and gave a reply.
"Shaak, if it's all the same to you, I would prefer to remain independent of the Crown at this time. I may be able to gain intelligence into these peoples' operations. It would likely interest you to know that Lizza wanted more crystals and I pointed her way to Jedha."
"Why would you do that?" She looked at him with a smirk. "The Empire more or less mined everything from that planet they could find when they built the first Death Star."
"Ah. I recall them building that. It was kept quiet until it was ready, then they destroyed Alderaan with it. Quite a show – but rather unfortunate. Did Bail Organa make it off before then?"
"He did not – though his wife did. But of course, you also know that we destroyed that Death Star soon after."
"That got out, too. Palpatine tried his best to cover it up, but I later heard he'd started building a new one."
"That's right. I have now taken over that effort. We will be calling it the Peacekeeper. It should be ready in about five more months."
Menoway whistled softly. "The first one took almost twenty years. How …"
"We have new contractors. The Santhé-Sienar Corporation."
"Run by Valles Santhé, of course. Her name is always in the news. She's quite the self-promoter."
Shaak laughed softly. "You could say that. Mace, my friend. It is quite good news, having you back. In whatever capacity you would like to serve."
He laughed in return. "Shaak, my friend. It was hard for me to picture you in this role, once I learned that you had attained it. Could you explain why at this time, if not how?"
She smirked again for a second, then grew serious. "My friend, I well recall your allegiance to the Republic, but you must admit that whole structure was becoming unworkable. Once I knew I could take Palpatine down, I set up a concrete plan to overhaul the entire governing framework of this Empire. Fortunately, Palpatine hadn't really shown too much concern over administrative matters, so it wasn't too hard working within the framework that already existed. Valles did much of the planning, and, I must say she has done a fine job. Everything fits together cleanly, and I have set in motion a plan to gradually devolve some of my executive power once things have taken hold. I've expanded the legislature by adding a lower house, and eventually much law-making authority will be turned over to them. Plus we are also establishing a true judicial branch for the Galaxy, one that will also have a measure of independence. I want the Galaxy to also have regional and sectoral authorities that govern in accordance with my framework as well."
Menoway listened carefully, then responded. "I can see you have put much thought and preparation into all of this. It's really quite remarkable and I wish you success. You are correct about the Republic. We as Jedi were too close to things, here on Coruscant. We all knew the Separatists were not the true problem, but merely a symptom. Once Anakin told me that Palpatine was a Sith Lord, it became obvious that our old friend Dooku was carrying out his plan …"
Shaak interrupted, briefly, "Were you aware that Palpatine asked Anakin to execute Dooku when the time was right? I learned this from Anakin himself."
"No – I was not aware of that. But it would explain a lot. I am also quite intrigued about what happened to Vader. Could you bring me up to speed?"
"It was really quite remarkable. I had had my doubts, but Ahsoka never stopped believing in her old master. Little by little, we worked on him until he could see that Palpatine was never going to live up to any promises he had made. I then offered Anakin a chance to become his old self – at least, a facsimile of him – and then we performed a difficult set of operations to restore him. However, I think some of Vader still remains. My very able apprentice, Maris, is with him now and she is supporting his efforts to stay on the course he is now following."
Menoway again nodded. "Quite interesting, about Ahsoka. Once she walked out on us, I kind of lost track of her. But clearly, you did not."
"Absolutely. She is my greatest success now – along with Maris. We've become very close and I have adopted her as my daughter, which is why she now holds the title of Crown Princess."
"So, tell me a bit about this new … Order – as you call it."
"It is a replacement for the Jedi, in the sense that certain elements we had taken on were betraying our mission. Being swept up in Sidious's war was, in my opinion, the inevitable outcome as we tied ourselves too closely to defending what had become a corrupted institution. My new Order will operate apart from the political realm. Its purpose is to find those with Force-sensitive or Force-adept talent and train them to use these abilities in service of a greater good in the Galaxy. They are not intended to be my personal guard, even though they swear allegiance to me. I do not consider myself infallible, and invite those around me to question my statements and actions. I cannot take this leadership role without valuable feedback. The Members of the Order will provide one form of that feedback."
"I see … so the New Order is an extension of your ideals, but apart from the directly political. I guess the old rule about attachments has been dispensed with as well?"
"Indeed it has. But each such relationship should be questioned by those in it. I have felt for a long time that our organization is stronger when we work together – in a spirit of teamwork. The Jedi were at their best when we did that. I do not have any prohibitions about Members being married to each other, for example, or knowing their families. Seizing a very young child, from his or her family, goes against my core beliefs and produces an individual who is cut off from her or his basic identity. We are a galaxy made up of several species and ways of life. It is not our place to claim that our way is necessarily superior – we must be prepared to demonstrate that."
Menoway thought this over carefully. What Shaak was telling him clearly clashed with what he felt the Jedi embodied, but, then again, she wasn't claiming to be reinventing the Jedi. This was her conception of what a group of Force-adept people should be and how it should operate.
"Shaak, I will keep an open mind. If I was to show an interest in joining this … new Order, as you call it, what requirements might there be?"
"None beyond your pledge to be loyal to me and the organization as a whole. To support your fellow members wherever possible and, as a more senior Member, always assist in the training and the passing on of knowledge."
"And how large is the current membership?"
"Just under one hundred. But we expect to grow rapidly as we find more and more Force-sensitive people in the Galaxy – now that they are free to show themselves again."
She paused for a second.
"Mace … I can see also that your views on things have clearly progressed. What would you tell me about why that might be?"
"Shaak, it's really not that complex. I've had a very long time to think about things, and I've done a great deal of self-reflection. I've also had to admit to significant errors in my perception and interpretation of events. We the Jedi, we clearly lost our way. We held ourselves to be the last word – the experts – on everything having to do with the Force, and its Will … but if that were truly the case, we would have detected Palpatine long before it was too late. That day, when I came to his office so as to place him under arrest, was truly the end of that long era. Shaak, I had him right where I wanted him. He had killed three of us – Masters Tiin, Kolar, and Fisto – but I was able to face him one on one. He tried to stop me with Force Lightning, but I was able to reverse it with my lightsabre – the one that Padawan Andujah now owns – and I seemed to be gaining the upper hand. But then Anakin showed up and interfered, slicing off my sword hand and causing me to go out the window of the Chancellor's office."
"Oh, my …" Shaak muttered. "I had no idea how it actually happened …"
"Yes. I fell from some 200 levels up, but I was able to slow my descent with the Force and locate my severed arm and my sabre. I made it to a medical clinic, where they did a quick procedure to re-attach it and then I was on my way after a few hours in recovery. I was fortunate that this happened on Coruscant because of the proximity of quality care. And, because I went out the window due to the force of Skywalker's strike and Palpatine's push, I didn't really sustain too much shock from the lightning. Palpatine had been temporarily weakened. Shaak – I came so close."
"So …" Shaak sighed softly. "It was then that you realized what had happened, and made the decision to 'disappear?'"
"Exactly, my friend. So how did you get away? The word had gone out that all Jedi were to be executed, no exceptions."
Shaak took a deep breath, then exhaled. "Well, I was in my quarters at the Temple when the word went out. Jocasta was able to alert me. We made a decision to each escape Coruscant and take as many of the holocrons from the Temple as we could. At this same time, Padawan Maris Brood had arrived in-system and landed at the Temple. She agreed to join me after we filled her in. We left in my ship and went first to Shili, then eventually wound up on Felucia. Since then, I've increased my powers and trained Maris to do the same. After a few years, we started the creation of what would become The Order."
Menoway stroked his chin, seemingly deep in thought. He then started nodding, and asked, "So, now I'm curious. They called what happened that day 'Order 66' and most of us were eliminated, but not all. Can you tell me, to the best of your estimation, who else survived besides you, me, Jocasta, and Maris?"
Shaak laughed, "You know, I still am not completely sure, but here's what I know. Besides the three you mentioned, there is Master Yoda and a former Padawan named Jin-Lo Rayce, who later joined Jocasta on Chandrila. Master Kenobi survived for a number of years but passed away aboard the first Death Star at the hands of Vader. Another Padawan, whose master was Depa Billaba, also survived until quite recently. His name was Kanan Jarrus, originally Caleb Dume. And then, of course, there was Ahsoka Tano. Along with Anakin Skywalker, who is no longer Darth Vader. Oh … also, Anakin had twin children, a boy and girl, named Luke and Leia. They are in my organization as well."
Menoway shook his head while managing a tight grin. "That's not too bad, considering. But Anakin had kids? Who was the mother?"
She chuckled. "Would you believe … Padme Amidala? He was secretly married to her, right under our noses."
"Ha!" He slapped his shoulder while interjecting. "That would perhaps explain a lot."
"Yep." Shaak nodded. "Palpatine detected this and then used it to worm his way into Anakin's consciousness. The boy was putty in his hands."
"So Yoda … where is he now?"
"With my organization on Felucia. He joined us there recently, before the Battle of Hoth and the end of Palpatine's reign. Master Yoda had been in hiding on Dagobah since the Purge. I know he will be glad to see you."
He shook his head again, while smiling. "Wow … really. So much to take in and process, but who knew that all this was going on while I was hiding out""
Shaak laughed. "We were all in similar circumstances. I may have done the most to bring us back together, however. Once I realized there were plans for a rebellion, I decided I had to gain control over it, and then I could put my plan into motion."
"Which was?"
Shaak chuckled. "I will tell you more about it, sometime later. I think we have covered much ground today. Anyway, let me close by saying this much. I am gratified to see you again, old friend, and look forward to having you join with me in helping to set this Galaxy on the right course."
"Very well, my Empress. I hope we can have more talks like this in the future, although I am aware that you are probably quite busy."
With that, Shaak rose and Menoway did as well. She extended her hands to him and he grasped them. She then sent a strong current of energy to him and soon received an answering current, which began to re-heal their relationship – one which had grown cold after twenty years. The amulet hanging from her neck was winking in a soft blue shade.
Shaak led Menoway back to the ante-room, where Jocasta was still waiting. The three bowed to each other, and Menoway kissed the Empress's hand on his way out. He had business elsewhere in the upper regions of Coruscant now that he could move about more freely. Jocasta stood, watching him, then turned to Shaak and smiled. The Empress sighed softly, greatly pleased to see how many of her old friends had been found and that they could reunite under the now much improved circumstances.
"Come, Jo. We've more to discuss." They returned to the small library. Shaak sat on her bench, and started smoothing her gowns.
"So, what is it, Shaak?"
"I'm not sure, exactly. But the Force is indeed telling me something. I wonder if I might summon Master Yoda …"
Jocasta nodded, "never a bad idea … he likely will have his own interpretation."
"Ah yes … so, Jo, we will go together to Felucia. And then, why not join me on Avalonia soon? We need to visit Lianna after we see Yoda on Felucia on the way over."
"Sounds like a plan," the old lady smiled. "I'd also like to visit Varda there. She still is, correct?"
"Yes." Shaak chuckled. "I was happy that she wanted to stay there and assist Frehya … whom, I had to inform, I want to remain in charge of the Order when Ahsoka and I are not there."
"But she was a little hesitant?"
Shaak smiled. "A little. She misses being around me, after all. But we all have jobs to do. Now more than ever. I want the Order to grow strong. Ahsoka will be the one to shape things, and Frehya has been her friend for a while now. Plus, young Reema. It's time for her to step up and fulfill her promise."
"I'm very impressed with her. So much talent – reminds me of you at that age, dear."
"Yes …" Shaak grew silent, thinking something over for a couple of seconds, then picking up where she'd left off. "Valles and her husband-to-be. I would like you to accompany me when I meet them this time on Lianna."
"Anything in particular you're looking for?"
"Not so much … it's more the feel of things. Both Valles and Vaston are important players in the Galaxy now and I want to keep them close. You've always been good at reading people, and Valles is often inscrutable."
"How about her lover?"
Shaak chuckled. "He's trickier than one might think. Quite shrewd. You know, I finally met his mother, the huge and still most powerful Vestalia."
Jocasta nodded, then looked her friend in the eye. "I'd be curious of your impressions of her. Shaak, I've always been a keen observer of Galactic affairs and doings. The Hapes Sector is usually a closed-off place, and it's due to her. As Jedi, we of course were forbidden passage there – similar to Malachor in the old days – but I never knew exactly why. It had something to do with Vestalia."
Shaak smiled. "Indeed. I've detected more than a few Force-adept people during my visit there the other day. They don't even try to hide it. But, Jo, here's the kicker – the old Queen is stepping down in the next year and handing her throne to … Valles."
"What?" Jocasta gasped. "Why in the Galaxy …"
"I've got my theories. Valles, for her part, wanted me to know this so I wouldn't be blind-sided by it. And, of course, everyone on Hapes was quite cordial and properly disposed toward me as their empress."
"I should hope so," Jocasta muttered.
Shaak continued. "So … my impressions of Vestalia? She is impressive, that's for sure. Jovial, seemingly kind-hearted. But this may be due to the fact that she's nearing the end of her rather long reign."
"How long, exactly?"
"About a quarter millennium …"
Jocasta gave a low whistle. "There's likely not too much she hasn't seen." She thought for a second. "But to stay in control for that long … I would expect her to have done some things she may not be all that proud of today."
Shaak chuckled. "You may be right about that. And we may come to know the answer. So much about Hapes is a closed subject. But, while you're going through the archives, perhaps you might look up the Hapians and Queen Mother Vestalia. They refer to her by the title of "Ta Chumé."
"Yes, Shaak, I will do that."
With that, the two of them rose, bowed briefly to each other, then they hugged for a few seconds.
"Let me know what you find, my friend," Shaak smiled, then turned to leave, as Jocasta headed for the ante-room.
Felucia, Shaak's City Palace, 1 ABY 2 months, 28 days
Shaak had directed the Empress Shaak to remain in orbit around Felucia for a few hours, waiting for it to be daytime on the side of the planet where The Order's facilities were located. As per her discussion with Jocasta, she had plans on Felucia before heading over to Avalonia. When the time came, the Empress pulled on a loose-fitting dark green full-length dress, and boarded the Imperial Shuttle – one marked with Shaak's royal colors of pink and green – which descended to the surface, landing at a newly completed spaceport in the settlement known as "Felucia City." Before they landed, Shaak had contacted Frehya and directed her to receive her at the small palace that had been built for the Empress to conduct business while on the planet. As the shuttle approached, Shaak took in the view. Things are more or less the same as when I left Felucia, which is as I directed. A wry smile came across her face and she chuckled. Is everything really so different now, just because I'm Empress? I will still feel the good ground here as I did some twenty years ago.
Meanwhile, Frehya was in her office in the palace, meeting with Knight Varda Wahi, reviewing documents for the Order.
"So, Varda, I wanted you to see the financials. Ahsoka had contacted me and said she wanted an estimate for our annual expenses, allowing for expansion."
"Freh, we now have over 100 acolytes. We need to expand the bunkhouse, or maybe build a second unit. Our bills are piling up. Where is the money for all of this going to come from?"
"Shaak used to fund it directly from her own funds, but now Ahsoka has taken over the administration, and she's contacted me and asked for a budget, so I would imagine she's doing it now."
Varda nodded. "So it's still going to come directly from the Empress's funds, just run by Ahsoka. Xendar says we are getting so many inquiries from people who think they want to join. They are telling him they've had Force experiences."
Frehya chuckled. "Are these legitimate? I mean, ever since Shaak became Empress, the call has gone out – across the Galaxy."
"Well, maybe so, but I wouldn't turn my back on this, Freh. Considering how large the Galaxy is, there are bound to be many possible new members. Doesn't Shaak want it thrown open … we need to follow her direction."
Frehya chuckled. "Varda, you know I want to do that whenever possible. But to do all the things we want to do, we are going to need much more resources."
While this discussion continued, Shaak had calmly strode into the room, unannounced. It took a few seconds, but Varda turned around to see her. Shaak spoke softly.
"Am I interrupting anything, my friends?"
"Of course not," Frehya laughed. "We were … having a financial discussion, about new resources for the Order."
Shaak smiled and nodded, taking a seat on an empty chair. "Ahsoka will handle that for you. She is the new Deputy Grand Master. I asked her to come up with a reasonable budget amount, allowing for expansion. If we take on too many new people at once, there are not likely to be enough experienced members to help with training … but I told her she could decide how she wants to run things. I have a galaxy to run, now."
With that, Shaak tilted her head back and laughed loudly. Varda and Frehya joined in.
"It's so good to have you back, Master," Frehya smiled. She stood up, came over to Shaak and embraced her. Shaak returned the gesture.
"How's it going on Coruscant, my Empress?" Varda asked. "Are you knocking heads together?"
"Ah, yes, when it's necessary," Shaak replied. "But it's overall going well. Valles is doing such a great job. But I'm here to invite both of you to attend Ahsoka's wedding. It's about seven days away now, on Lianna."
"Really …" Varda gasped. "I need to find something to wear."
"There should be plenty of shops on Lianna, in the City," Shaak suggested. "Something for every taste. Just put it on my bill."
"I'll be sure to do that. Thank you, Shaak … er, my Empress," Varda laughed.
"I came here for another reason, as well," Shaak added. "My apprentice, Muu'saama, is with me and I've directed her to spend some time with Order members. She is currently a Padawan Third Degree and has been getting most of her training directly from me. Muu'saama is a gifted young lady from Shili and is going to continue as my understudy, but I'd like her to train with some of the more experienced members of the Order. It will be a good chance for her to see where she stands, skill-wise."
"Of course, Shaak. We'd be delighted to help her," Varda responded first.
"Great, I'm going to leave her here with you all. She will stay for a couple weeks, then return to Coruscant. Her normal home is in my suite at the new palace." Shaak took a deep breath, then continued. "Can you give me a progress report on two other members … Ezra Bridger and Reema Andujah."
"Oh yes," Frehya responded. "Reema has passed her written exams and constructed her new lightsabre, she is ready for the final stage of the Trial."
She paused for a second. "Ezra is making great progress as well. He seems a natural. Nance says his swordsmanship is first rate for someone of his level of experience."
Shaak chuckled. "I see. How are his … other skills?"
"Still developing," Varda chuckled in response. He's an eager one, though. But one thing I noticed."
"Which was?" Shaak asked.
"He and Padawan Andujah seem to be growing close. It may be concerning. Young Reema has made such progress, it would be unfortunate for her to … lose focus."
"I see," Shaak muttered. "I'll take this under advisement. But I have much belief in her. That girl has huge natural talent. Her midichlorian levels are considerable."
"Oh, really?" Frehya interrupted. "How considerable?"
"Similar to Ahsoka's and Anakin's …"
Varda gasped at that. "I had no idea … seriously, but I do see some very advanced telekinesis ability. One day, I saw her lifting large boulders and smashing them together, breaking them into smaller pieces."
Shaak smiled, in a sly way. "I think I've detected that with her. I caught her doing it a few months ago, before we all left for Coruscant. Yes, this part of her ability is remarkable."
Shaak then stood. "I would like to meet with Master Yoda before I go. I will be joining Ahsoka on Avalonia, and from there, we will proceed to Lianna for her wedding."
"Do you want me to summon him?" Frehya asked.
"I shall handle it," Shaak replied. "Is my speeder still functional?"
"Yes. In fact, I had it checked out just the other day. I've been using it to keep it in good working order."
"How thoughtful," Shaak chuckled. "I'd like to use it."
Frehya texted the garage staff to send it to the main entrance of the palace. Shaak went down to it, jumped in and headed to Yoda's little residence. Upon arrival, she summoned him via the Force and he soon joined her outside.
"Greetings, Grand Master," he said cheerfully. "Some time it has been."
Shaak nodded. "Indeed, my friend. I think we need to talk. Hop in and we'll go to my former residence. I trust it has been kept up in my absence."
A few minutes later, Shaak and Yoda were sitting together in the main room of her old house in the Order Village area on Felucia. She had looked around her kitchen and was able to put together enough ingredients to make a warm beverage. She offered a small cup to Yoda, who took it and thanked her. Together they sat for a bit and sipped the beverage, which Yoda could readily tell had some Force-connected qualities.
"Refreshing, this is," he remarked. "An expert in herbal medicine, you have become."
"Studied on my own," Shaak replied softly. "Now, to the matter at hand. There have been a series of events that have taken me somewhat by surprise." She went on about the three images, which of course were Su, Lizza, and Magnifica – unknown to either of them. She then brought up the matter of Darth Traya, who seemed to have become a Dark Side Force spirit and had been contacting her.
Yoda listened carefully, and waited for her to finish, and when he was satisfied that she had, he offered: "Drawn to you … the Dark Side seems to be … Master Ti."
"I agree, Master. Do you suspect that they see me in that light?"
He snorted for a second, as was his custom. "Difficult, it is, to draw a different conclusion … recall, do you, my warning?"
"About the Force Severance? Yes. It is an extreme power … I feel confident that it was the correct decision. Darth Sidious was a huge danger."
"Agree with that … I do. Tell me, Master Ti … the Amulet of Kalara, useful, it is?"
"I'm not entirely sure … Darth Traya mentioned that it would make me unstoppable, she even told me where to find it."
Yoda bent over, shaking his head slowly. "And this power, crave it, you do?"
"I understand your concern. But I need to ask you something else, which might add further dimension to things … And that is the matter of the Hapes Sector and their longtime ruler Vestalia. What can you tell me about her?"
Yoda winced a little, then a faint smile appeared on his countenance. He then nodded slowly.
"For many years, the sector, off limits to Jedi, it was."
"And why was that? During my time in the Temple, I'd heard about it but never gave it much thought … but now, because Valles is marrying the son of Vestalia, I have visited it, recently."
"Over 200 years ago," he began. "A great and powerful leader, Vestalia was. A friend of the Jedi, and supremely powerful in the Force. Control her, we could not. Fear her, some of us did. The time of the High Republic, it was. A bit later, the Hapes Sector, closed, by her, to us, it was."
Shaak pondered this news. "Why, exactly? Did you and the other Masters have an explanation?"
"The reasons for her decision, tell us, she did not." He looked at her pensively, sincerely wishing he could offer more.
Shaak nodded slowly. "Well, my friend, perhaps this can help. Traya recently appeared to me and told me that Darth Vesta would likely die soon and become another advisor to me – in the Spirit Realm." She paused for a second, noticing that Yoda was concentrating on her words. "Was there ever any indication that Vestalia was a Sith Lady? And, was it because of Darth Traya that the Jedi declared Malachor to be off-limits?"
Yoda then smiled. "The second question, true it is. The first, possible, it is, but know, we did not. Very intelligent, very powerful, Vestalia is."
"Ah, so this is news to you as well, Master. Since I gained the holocrons from the Jedi Archives, I learned something very interesting. It seems that Dooku and Sifo-Dyas joined with Qui-Gon and a Muun banker named Hego Damask. The Muun told them of the planet Kamino and the skill of the cloners who lived on that world. He also told Sifo-Dyas that they could grow an army of millions. They agreed privately, and Damask put up the money. This was over fifty years ago, Master."
Yoda took a swallow of Shaak's herbal beverage and drained his cup. She refilled it via the Force.
"Thank you, Master Ti," he responded cheerfully. "More to say, about this, have you?"
"Indeed," Shaak chuckled. "It turns out that Damask was a close friend of Kerred Santhé, Valles's grandfather – whom I now believe was Force adept and quietly powerful. Her midichlorian count is very high. Now she and her husband-to-be, Vaston of Hapes, have conceived a child on Lianna. So, a bit later, I traveled to Muunilinst, to meet a friend. This man told me a couple of things about Damask. I returned to Felucia – this was about nine years ago, now – and went to the vault and found the right holocron. It seemed the Force was leading me to it. It mentioned Darth Plagueis – I realized he was Damask, just like Sidious is Palpatine – or was – so I had put it all together."
Yoda processed the information, then asked, "your conclusion, Grand Master, what was it?"
"Obvious enough … Palpatine's plan was actually Damask's plan, and my old master Dooku was part of it. Which he obviously never told me. Nor did Qui-Gon."
"Very young, you were, at the time, Master Ti."
"Right, about 9 years old. Was there ever any thinking about building a clone army that you recall – until 30 years later?"
"Aware of that, I was not."
"I see. Well, thank you, Master. You've been very helpful. Was there anything you wanted to ask me – about this or other things?"
"Only this, Empress Ti. Your power, great it has become. Depend upon you now, much does. Troubling, it is, that Traya and other Dark Side entities … drawn to you, they are."
"I agree, Master Yoda. I shall be cautious. Much I am learning now, about many things that I did not know when I was a Jedi. I am not Empress to take Palpatine's place and rule the Galaxy. I only wish to bring balance to the Force and improve the lives of the people in the Galaxy."
"Sincere, you are, Master Ti … understand that, I do. Wish you well, I do. May the Force be with you."
With that, they both stood, then had a short energy exchange, where Shaak imparted much of her current understanding and a few of her more recent mental notes. They proceeded out of her old home and she then returned him to his Felucian home via her speeder. As she watched him dismount and head inside, he turned and stared at her, a smile appearing on his face. Shaak returned it, then snapped her head downward in a sharp nod. There was nothing more to be said at this time. She was soon aboard her designated Imperial Shuttle, heading for the Empress Shaak. She would soon arrive on Avalonia.
Shili, Corvala City, 1 ABY 2 months, 29 days
Admiral Thrawn was in transit aboard a shuttle from the Chiss region of the Western Reaches and he wanted to pay a visit to the planet Shili, the home world of Empress Shaak and Princess Ahsoka. He was accompanied by two lower-ranking officers who were also from the Chiss home world of Csilla. They were curious why he chose to make this detour before proceeding on to Coruscant and a follow-up appointment with Masters Skywalker and Brood. Thrawn explained that he wanted to gain a greater understanding of the new empress by visiting her home and spending some time among her people. His basic explanation:
"The Togruta are a basically warlike and carnivorous sort. They've had to carve out a living by dealing with ferocious beasts on their home world, and this has likely given them a tenacity that will be reflected in our new galactic leader. How this woman created a successful plan that brought down Emperor Palpatine is a question I have had few answers for thus far."
Lieutenant Marudo'ek (a fellow Chiss male) reported in. "We are approaching Shili now, sir. Will drop from hyperspace in fifteen minutes."
"Do you have that clearance code that Master Brood provided us, Captain? It should check out."
Captain Tenu'do'ella (a Chiss female) responded, "Entering it now, Admiral."
On the ground, word circulated quickly that a high-ranking Imperial officer had arrived in-system. The Togruta people had generally thrived during Imperial times as their basic manners and sense of conformity had given Palpatine no reason to see them as disloyal. Indeed, due to the Imperial crackdown on the slave trade, the former sovereign had something of a devoted following and many Togruta had joined the military since his ascension to the throne in 19 BBY. But it was quite another matter when one of their own had risen to the top. Shaak was universally loved on her home world and the pride they felt for her was unmistakable. Knowing that a Togruta was now ruler of the Galaxy made everyone feel a little bit better off.
Life on Shili hadn't yet changed greatly, but there were already signs that Imperial activity would pick up as new contracts would come their way for food supplies and the like. Shili was mostly seen as an agricultural world, with vast plains areas that afforded it a long growing season. Large herds of livestock were raised there, and even though more traditionally-minded Togruta such as Shaak and her family preferred not to consume grain-fed meat, nonetheless it was quite popular in the Core region. The political leadership on Shili were eager and quick to please the Empress and she had made it known that no large scale mining or heavy industry was to take place on her home world and its basic character should remain undisturbed.
As the Chiss group debarked from the shuttle, they were met by a Togruta welcoming party. When asked what their purpose was for coming to Shili, Thrawn remarked that they were on a "fact finding" mission, and that he in particular wanted to know more about Shili and the Togruta in general. To his surprise, the locals they met in Corvala were happy to oblige and felt a sense of pride that someone from a faraway world such as the Chiss would want to know more about them. Thrawn and his subordinates were also asked questions about their home and about the Chiss species as well. After a friendly discussion, it was suggested that the visitors might sample some of the best cuisine that Corvala had to offer.
Thrawn indicated his desire to sink his teeth into some of the renowned barbecue the Togruta were known for, and soon enough, the House of Kaa'shaan was suggested.
"Is this considered a top place?" The Admiral asked the leader of the welcoming group, a Corvala city councilman named Etaa'kaa Mo'kaamu.
"Indeed, sir. Many Imperial command leaders have been there and they uniformly gave it top reviews."
Thrawn smiled, and nodded. "Very well, we shall take the endorsement of our brothers in arms."
A few minutes later, the group headed over to the eatery. The Imperials were given a hearty welcome by the staff when they arrived. Although the senior Mr. Ti was not present, his son Tuuk observed the interaction with mild interest from a distance. Everyone seemed to have a good time and Thrawn asked several questions about Togruta life.
"Tell me," he asked the councilman, "are your people a religious sort? Do they have a spiritual leaning?"
"As a matter of fact, Admiral, we do. Our belief is that life comes from this land that gave birth to us and nurtures us to this day. But what caused you to make this connection?"
"A few details I have noticed since our arrival earlier today. Much of the artwork seems to emphasize this relationship with the land. Your people celebrate their hunting prowess. I would imagine that it was a rite of passage for a Togruta adolescent – male or female – would that be correct?"
"Sir, that was more in the past. Once, there were large numbers of deadly beasts roaming the surface of the planet, but over the centuries, those beasts – we call them the Akul – have gradually disappeared. They can still be found in some numbers near the polar regions of the planet. The wildlife is now mostly confined to smaller game and we have become an agricultural world. Our farm products constitute much of our goods for trade with the rest of the Galaxy."
"I see, Councilman Mo'kaamu. Quite interesting, but a tale that can be told on many other worlds, it seems. As development for sentient species encroaches on habitats, things change drastically."
By the time things were winding down, Thrawn's Togruta hosts were having their after-dinner drinks and a pipe was being passed around.
When it got to him, he inquired on what the substance was, and was told that it was "Buu'raa," a "substance of imagination." He decided to try it and soon found it was unlike anything else he had tried.
"Is this a sort of 'spice', he asked openly.
"Similar, but different," came a reply from someone else who had come over to the table. Unknown to Thrawn, it was Tuuk Ti, brother of the Empress. "If one approaches it with an open mind, he may discover new ways of viewing what he conceives as 'reality.'"
The Admiral felt a strange sensation at first, but generally found it quite pleasant. People in Corvala tended to prefer smoking a refined version of Buu'raa that was mild to the throat.
"I heard them say this is your first visit on Shili," Tuuk observed. "My name is Tuuk, Admiral Thrawn. I am the manager of this establishment. We are pleased that you could enjoy our hospitality."
Thrawn reached over to him and they shook hands. "A fine place indeed, Mr. Tuuk. You should be most proud."
After the group had all had a taste from the pipe, the subject of conversation turned to the Empress.
"I would imagine this whole planet is quite pleased that one of your own has risen to the very top. Is that a fair assessment?" Thrawn ventured.
The councilman responded first. "Oh, yes. She is a very wise lady indeed. But we were all taken very much by surprise to see how she rose so quickly. Admiral, you no doubt know she was a member of the Jedi Order."
"I have come to understand that, yes. It's not as though Empress Shaak is broadcasting that to everyone. But, of course, personal details soon become public knowledge. We will likely learn more in the months to come."
Tuuk then added his perspective, but without revealing his connection to his sister. "We Togruta are, as you pointed out earlier, a spiritually minded people. In particular, we understand the Force, how it binds us and holds not just our planet, but the whole galaxy, together. The Empress is a great master of this art."
Thrawn puzzled over this, but he knew all too well that the Force was far more than mere superstition, as many others in the Imperial military had dismissed it. One of those had been Governor Wilhuff Tarkin, who scoffed at the notion that anything could be more powerful than the Death Star battle station. But it was destroyed, and by what? The Force, or someone wielding it. He'd long wondered just whom that might have been. The group discussed this but had no answers, other than the accepted story that a young rebel pilot "got lucky" and fired a shot that went down an exhaust port that led straight to the reactor.
The rest of the evening proceeded amiably. The Imperials approached things with an open attitude, just as their leader had told them to, and the Togruta were certainly gracious hosts. Thrawn and his group decided to stay the night in Corvala and leave for Coruscant the next day. Before retiring, the Chiss admiral thought it over.
I suppose I shall soon meet with Empress Shaak. I cannot say I have learned much about her from coming here, but her people are an interesting lot. They seem to carefully consider their words before speaking and they have a quiet dignity. I would very much like to understand more about what they call The Force. The Togruta seem to know more about it than most, and it was clear that Emperor Palpatine did as well. But what could have happened to him, that he would simply agree to turn over the throne to this previously obscure woman from Shili? One of the bigger mysteries of the history of this galaxy, that's for certain. Just the mention of her name here causes a certain reaction among the people. Sure, they are deservedly proud of her, but they are also more than a bit confused, it seems. Her rapid rise seems to upset their basic sensibilities.
How might I gain an audience with her? The chain of command would seem to run through Master Brood or Master Skywalker, of the newly recast ISB. The Empress wants the intelligence apparatus to override the Imperial command structure – which actually seems quite an effective way to organize things. This Lady Shaak clearly is quite shrewd … but perhaps she will give me a hearing. She has apparently turned her attention to the Unknown Regions – as if it must also be brought under her reign as well as the known Galaxy. A seemingly reasonable approach, and, from the looks of it, she also respects local traditions and is willing to grant a level of autonomy to worlds and sectors such as ours. But we Chiss have some insight into our part of the Galaxy. It is not "unknown" to us and there are some very interesting forces to be dealt with, as she will come to know.
Lianna, Vallesia Capital District, 1 ABY 3 months, 0 days, 12 hours
Vaston of Hapes had returned to Lianna, and had joined with Valles, this time at her newest palace – which was near completion – at the new Liannese capital district and city of Vallesia. The Queen had just concluded a general meeting with most of the planetary nobility, which included Grand Duchesses Ana of Livornia and Berit of Bergamia, the newly promoted Duchesses of Kalpania and Cumbria (both tropical districts), and various Counts and Countesses (which included Ry Kyver of Astride, and Janne Galtung of Hordaland) from around the planet. Ana and Berit were granted land in Vestalia and given permission to construct new palaces for each in the capital, as they would be acting as Valles's deputies while she was managing Galactic affairs (and also when she would be on Hapes, something she did not mention to her fellow Liannese). Each of them turned around and anointed Ry and Janne, respectively, as their direct reports. Valles stressed that both Berit and Ana had to agree with anything the other wanted to do in the political arena, figuring that, because they were rivals, these times would be rare and day to day governance on Lianna would be conducted from the Prime Minister's office.
When the meeting ended, many congratulations were given to Ana and Berit, while Ry and Janne also basked in the acclaim, as their lieges' success was theirs as well. When Vaston arrived at the Capital Palace, he chatted briefly with Janne.
"Countess, a pleasure, as always," he intoned playfully.
She curtsied to him. "Thank you, your highness. So you are to marry the Queen … quite an honor."
"I agree, Countess. There is no finer lady in the entire Galaxy. And I have become an admirer of the Liannese way of life. You must be so gratified by the success of this lovely world."
"Is it true – what I've heard – that your esteemed mother, Her Supreme Majesty, Vestalia, is stepping down after 250 years?"
"Your information is correct, milady. Mother has decided it's time for her to take a supporting role."
"Will you become King?"
"In a sense, yes … but I am not at liberty to give any details. Mother's wishes must be respected."
Janne simply nodded.
At this time, Duchess Ana, with Ry at her side, approached and curtsied briefly.
"Greetings, your highness, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding to Valles. She's so happy, I can tell …"
Ry smirked briefly at Janne, who stared daggers into the Mandalorian. Janne was inwardly angered at Ry's public recognition by Valles and felt – strongly – that no Liannese title of nobility should be given to an off-worlder, particularly not one from Mandalore. Vaston immediately picked up on this and filed it away for future reference. He then took Ana's right hand and kissed it gently.
"A pleasure to see you again, Duchess. You are looking most lovely."
Ana giggled. Always the flirt, that Vaston, but he's cute.
Valles soon joined the group, and all bowed to her.
"As you were," the Queen chuckled. She turned to Vaston.
"Darling, shall we?"
"Why, of course. Ladies …" he turned to Ana, Ry and Janne, "it's been a pleasure. I look forward to seeing you again soon."
Ana laughed, then glanced at Valles for a second. "My dear King, I hope you will save a dance for me at your upcoming wedding."
"But of course," Vaston laughed in return, as Valles looked on, grinning.
Valles's repulsor throne soon arrived. Vaston helped her onto it, then seated himself next to her. He planted a showy kiss on the Queen's lips, which was duly noted by those able to see it. Valles smirked at the group, then gave a dismissive gesture and Force-commanded her throne to whisk them away. They soon arrived at the lift, after first traversing a wide and elegant marble stairway that rose up three levels and stopping to look through a huge multi-paned transparisteel window. The view was down a long mall that had a soft carpet of turquoise-tinted grass. On either side of this mall, the new government offices – exquisitely detailed in similar marble to the Palace – were receiving the finishing touches of their construction. Each building was five stories high and had a large footprint on the ground. At the other end of the mall was the new hall of the Legislature, where each district's elected representatives met for planetary business. The Queen would perform the opening ceremonies at the beginning of each session. All of these duties had heretofore been carried out in Lianna City, but the decision to site the government in a newly planned capital was proving to be a popular one and Vallesia was going to be the equal of any Outer Rim world capital – especially as the Queen had quickly moved to consolidate her control over this vast Galactic region. In a few days, the Empress would be arriving and Valles wanted everything to be ready.
As she noticed he was admiring the view, she smiled and nodded toward him.
"It's wonderful, Valles … it almost seems like some of my mother's sensibilities are employed here."
"Absolutely. I was inspired by Hapes Prime. Vallesia is a take on Vestaliana. We go horizontal, not vertical, as in the City … already, there is a large demand for businesses to locate here. It's going to be a must-see destination for those from Outer Rim worlds. And we are also planning an Imperial Palace for Shaak's use when she visits."
"You don't miss a thing, do you?" he laughed.
Once safely upstairs on the top level (of seven), the newly betrothed royal pair quickly disrobed and jumped into each other's arms. It wasn't long before they were in bed together, working off the pent-up energy they had built up over the preceding fifteen days. An hour or so later, they were relaxing and smiling contentedly, again in each other's arms but more subdued.
"So my love, what's next?"
Valles smirked. "The Crown Princess, of course. This is our chance to pull off a coup – of sorts. It won't be lost on Coruscanti society that she prefers to have her nuptials on the Outer Rim."
"I suppose not. But who really cares about 'Coruscanti Society' anyway?" (He made air quotes as he spoke the words.)
"Ha-ha, right." Valles laughed. "Let's change topics. Our daughter is coming along splendidly."
"Ah," he smiled and nodded. "Do tell."
"She's almost ready to leave the incubator and I think we'll do it after the Princess's wedding. I've been undergoing hormone therapy so I can begin lactation once I am ready to breast feed. We'll just need to wait until she is mature enough to feed. I'm really quite excited by it all."
"Have you informed the Empress?"
"Not yet, but I plan to."
"I imagine she will be supportive."
Valles chuckled. "She has been thus far."
"Well … I am excited to be a father. I can hardly wait to hold our dear Yas'meena."
Valles smiled broadly and hugged him. The couple were clearly happy expectant parents.
Mid-Rim, The Wheel Space Station, 1 ABY 3 months, 2 days
At this time in Galactic history, the rise of the Second Empire and Empress Shaak, along with the new Galactic administration, had set alarm bells ringing among the many organized crime syndicates found around the Outer and Mid Rim regions. As the Empress had loudly broadcast her plan to crack down hard on them, they were naturally concerned. So much so, in fact, that the leaders of some of these groups had come to realize their best chance at survival was to put aside their differences and work together. But saying this was one thing, while putting it into practice was quite another. However, due to the efforts of Lady Qi'ra – originally of Corellia, but now Lianna – the leaders of some of the more prominent organizations agreed to meet.
Qi'ra was at this time the leader of the Crimson Dawn syndicate, a group founded by Maul around 19 BBY and an outgrowth of his "Shadow Collective" organization that was formed in an attempt to take over the planet Mandalore, in concert with the Death Watch group of Mandalorians. Death Watch was made up of more warlike individuals, such as Pre Viszla, who disagreed with the pacifist philosophy of the leadership of Mandalore at the time. Maul, the former Sith lord and apprentice of Darth Sidious (a.k.a. Sheev Palpatine), was desirous of gaining revenge on the Sith, as he had been replaced by Count Dooku. Maul saw the Mandalorian situation as an ideal vehicle, and to that end, formed a temporary grouping of the leading Outer Rim crime syndicates that he dubbed the Shadow Collective, which included the Hutt Clan, Black Sun, and the Pyke Syndicate. Ultimately, the attempt to take over Mandalore failed as Ahsoka Tano led a group of clone troopers and were able to stop Maul's plans during the Siege of Mandalore.
After Order 66 and the Jedi Purge (also known as "Knightfall"), Maul went underground and founded the Crimson Dawn organization, a group that began to prosper in the Spice trade and especially in dealing in coaxium fuel along with the Pykes. Lady Qi'ra – a childhood and teenage friend of Han Solo on Corellia – had been recruited into Crimson Dawn by Dryden Vos, its "public" leader prior to 10 BBY. She double-crossed Vos and killed him, leading her to come into contact with Maul, who was in seclusion on his home world of Dathomir (near Mandalore on the Outer Rim, northeastern region). Gradually, Maul came to trust Qi'ra and thus she grew in power and influence. Always the ambitious sort, a few years later she betrayed Maul by secretly turning him over to the Empire, which forced him to leave Dathomir and find a new hideout, eventually making his way to Malachor. Under her ruthless leadership, Crimson Dawn prospered and cemented their alliance with the Pykes, which turned out to be quite profitable for both groups as the Empire was always interested in getting their hands on as much of the "hyper" fuel as possible.
Lady Qi'ra saw the Second Empire as a golden opportunity to become the most powerful leader of the syndicates and reached out to her contacts in Black Sun and the Hutts with the proposal to form an informal alliance and share intelligence. Toward that end, she called for a meeting on The Wheel, a giant space station on the edge of the Mid Rim in the Maldrood Sector, along the Perlimian Trade Route, a few hours' journey from Lianna. The Wheel was a suitable meeting place, as the station administrators had the reputation of providing complete confidentiality on all doings that took place there. So long as they recouped their modest fees, everything flowed evenly. All manner of dealings took place on The Wheel: gambling, arms trade, contraband sales of various substances (Spice among them), prostitution, and in particular, trade in information. The change in power on Coruscant made the station a hive of activity – even more than usual – as it was believed the new reign of Empress Shaak would be a much better environment for doing business. Those who met there were not much concerned with her proclamations about a crackdown on syndicates and other purveyors of various illegal activities.
So, to the giant station came a small group of elite leaders, which included Jabba's brother Kaaba from the Hutt Clan, Prince Xizor of Black Sun, Quay Tolsite of the Pykes, Mak Kelim of the Crymorah Syndicate (and Droid Gotra) – all to meet with Lady Qi'ra and explore the possibilities of working together. The upper levels of the station afforded top-notch entertainment and accommodations, including eateries and nightclubs. After the introductions were made, the group sat down to business. Qi'ra seemed to have a knack for putting people at ease and getting them to see the larger picture and the mutual benefits of a cooperative relationship. The group sat down at a gambling nightclub for drinks (of various sorts, depending on the species of each of them). She was the only human, and the only female, in the group, while Xizor was a Falleen (a green-skinned reptilian), Tolsite a Pyke (a human-like species with a large head and under-sized face), Kaaba of course a Hutt, and Kelim a strange amalgam of mechanical and organic. The entertainment consisted of a big band mostly blowing polyphonic tunes (something akin to "Dixieland" on Earth) dominated by wind instruments, but was quite lively. Qi'ra opened the discussion.
"My friends … let us drink to a mutually rewarding outcome," she spouted enthusiastically in her core-world accented Basic.
Xizor turned to her. "Lady, your proposal was most intriguing. We recently received a communique from the Imperial Navy and Admiral Pestage. He was suggesting that he be cut in on any new action or he would otherwise find it necessary to start carrying out the Empress's wishes."
Tolsite snorted. "I knew it. The players may change but the game is the same. We may find various … cooperative … individuals." He closed his statements with a distinct hissing sound.
Kaaba responded in Huttese, but the others had their translation devices working. He said, "Qi'ra … have your group had any messages from the Imperials recently?"
Qi'ra smiled. "Not that I am aware of, but I suspect we will. My friend in the Hapes cluster, Crown Prince Vaston, has been in touch. He is quite sweet with Queen Valles Santhé of Lianna. She is the greediest person in the entire galaxy."
Kaaba snorted derisively. "They say she is the real Empress now."
Kelim, who had been keeping silent, finally spoke up. "I am in touch with sources on Coruscant. They say the Empress is exploring the possibility of a new droid-based force."
"Is that a fact?" Qi'ra chuckled. "We might all get a chance to prosper. But I feel … at some point … we will need to give those such as Admiral Pestage something to take back to their superiors on Coruscant."
Xizor glared at her. "You're not suggesting …"
She cut him off. "Don't get the wrong idea. A small bit of pain now may lead to a greater gain later. But …" she turned to the group. "Who among us can really say we know what we are dealing with when it comes to Empress Shaak?"
"Not I," Xizor conceded. "But she is a Togruta, I know that much. And I also know that her daughter, a lady named Ahsoka, is supposed to get married this month on Lianna."
Tolsite laughed in his own distinct way. "Who … is the lucky guy?"
"A human, from a place called Almania," Kelim answered. "I can't say that I am … terribly familiar with it."
"Ahnh!" Xizor scoffed. "Just a backwater rock near the Corporate Sector. Nothing terribly interesting there."
Qi'ra broke in. "That may be true, but this Almanian is joining the Imperial Royal Family. Kind of a … big deal, if you ask me. And why would it be on Lianna? That's Queen Valles's home planet. They make all kinds of arms there."
"I am well aware of that, Lady," Kaaba remarked. "Few worlds in the Galaxy are better defended."
"That wasn't my point," Qi'ra snapped. "There will be all sorts of overflow coming from that event. We must find a way to be involved … somehow. If it's her daughter's wedding, you know the Empress will be there. It's our chance to take the measure of her."
Kelim responded. "Your logic is sound, Lady Qi'ra. We must know our enemy. Shaak Ti … according to my sources, was a Jedi Master in the Old Republic days. A most cunning individual, by all accounts." He then modulated his tone somewhat. "They say she is extremely powerful in the Force."
The others grew hushed at that. "Not good," Xizor said quietly, as his eyes glanced around the others, he knew they were thinking the same thing. He turned to Qi'ra. "Lady … you were more familiar with this type of opponent. How did you handle him?"
She smiled. "I had to win his confidence first. Maul was not accustomed to giving his trust to just anyone. He had an agenda, but I never knew exactly what it was."
Kelim spoke again. "This Empress may be even harder to handle. Maul – from all accounts – was not a complex individual."
"So, to sum up," Xizor remarked, a bit louder. "This royal wedding on Lianna is actually an opportunity, am I correct? A chance to increase our sales of certain … materials … and … to meet the Empress. But, of course, only indirectly?"
Kaaba added, "how else will we know what type of tactics she will bring against us? They have so many ships."
Qi'ra smiled again. "The last time I saw Vaston … he hinted that they were building another super weapon. His own companies were being asked to provide raw materials. Plus he has a good store of coaxium available as well. Their refineries are top quality."
The discussion started to drift off, and another round of drinks was brought. The syndicate leaders realized they had a great many challenges in front of them, but at the same time, many new opportunities. The primary need, all agreed, was to get a greater understanding of the Empress and what her plans were. When the meeting broke up, they all were in agreement that more meetings would be a good idea and set their next get together in a month's time.
To be continued …