Chapter Eight:
Vexa looked down upon the child who trembled before her throne. She had just finished breaking him in, ensuring that he was suitably terrified of her, and willing to do what she ordered him to. She did not have the time to break Tharan in the way she had the other acolytes, so lucky Tharan, he got the crash-course. Now, as the Mirialan boy lay twitching and smoldering from a combination of attacks, Vexa ordered him to kneel.
It took him a minute, but he managed it, and Vexa had to remind herself to be a little patient with him. She did not want him permanently damaged… physically.
Vexa made him wait there while her mind wandered. After her tampering with Ben Skywalker, Vexa had contacted her top splicer with instructions to raid Doctor Giddalti's vast video files, and to copy everything the man had on Ignis. Giddalti recorded absolutely everything involving his experimental patients, claiming it to be used for his research. Vexa could care less what he used it for, but it would now serve her purposes perfectly. Now she needed to influence Ben to use one of Mara's contacts. Through that channel, Vexa would deflect the message her way, and her splicer would send Ben the files. They would of course be under the guise of being sent back by Mara's contact, so Ben didn't suspect anything.
Vexa smiled inwardly, and then refocused on Tharan.
"Who is your master?" Vexa asked of him.
"You are," the boy whispered on a hoarse throat.
"Speak up!" Vexa snapped, making the boy jump.
"You are!" He almost hollered.
"What is your purpose right now?"
Tharan took a breath. "To serve you, and also the Fist."
Vexa nodded. "Are you to go anywhere near an escape pod?"
"Not without your express permission, or that of the Fist." Tharan spoke. Vexa touched his mind openly and read the query of why she thought he would do that. He had nowhere to go, and did not know how to operate a ship, let alone how to navigate one.
So, this boy was smarter than he let on. That was good to know. Still, it was not yet time for Tharan to be given to Ignis.
There was a knock on the door to the throne room, and Vexa growled low in her throat at the interruption.
"Enter." She commanded.
An officed appeared in the doorway, looking a little nervous. "Forgive me, Milady, but Admiral Furch sent this to me with the orders to get it to you immediately."
Vexa frowned at the device in his grasp, wondering what Furch would send to her so urgently. When the officer reached the point at which he was not allowed further, he saluted and held out the datapad.
"It's an interview… about you, Milady." The man explained vaguely.
Vexa's eyebrows rose, and she waved him away. The man saluted once more, and then spun on his heel to march away with perfectly crisp steps.
Leaving Tharan kneeling weakly on the floor, Vexa activated the datapad and saw a news feed waiting for her to watch. Vexa started it and was greeted with two people on-screen. One was a male Cathar Senator, which the news outlet had labeled as Talaat Galland from the planet Cathar. Across from the Senator was a newswoman, but Vexa didn't care what her name was.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet with us, Senator Galland." The newswoman began. "You are one of the few who is unafraid to speak openly about Vexa Wran, or so you claim."
The Senator smiled in a way that he probably meant to be pleasant, but with the feline person's pointed teeth, it made him look sinister. "Indeed I am. I am not cowed in the slightest by her. She hides in the shadows, striking like a novice admiral would in a sea battle."
Vexa's eyes narrowed at being called a coward.
"What was the true purpose of striking at random resources?" Galland went on. "And why does she never show herself? What does she have to hide?"
The newswoman shifted in her seat. "Are you sure it is wise to… mock someone who heads an offensive group that is growing in size? Not to mention Vexa herself is a powerful Sith Lady."
Galland waved a flippant hand. "This Sith is out of her league. And in any case, she is one woman against an entire galaxy."
The woman tilted her head. "One could argue that Emperor Palpatine was one man, yet he ruled the galaxy with an iron fist for about two decades."
"He also had the smarts to outwit an entire Republic and the Jedi Order of old." Galland retorted. "He had a massive military on his side, and the favor of almost the entire population of the galaxy. By the time he made his move, almost nobody batted an eye."
The newswomen nodded in a practiced manner, and Galland continued.
"Vexa Wran has none of these things. Sure, she's been gathering a collection of gangs, but what can this rag-tag group truly accomplish? And with what might will they hold at bay the rest of us as they continue to spread themselves thin?"
The newswoman glanced off-screen for a moment, and then nodded almost imperceptibly, turning back to the Senator.
"So, what are you really saying then, Senator?"
"I would challenge Vexa Wran to show herself, and to lead on the front lines if she's truly serious." Galland snorted. "And really, her so-called ability to lead has so far not instilled confidence in my opinion."
Vexa was truly fuming now. How dare this imbecilic!
"To sell my point," Galland said, "I would note that now she sends her new Fist out to instill fear of her. But she is doing the exact opposite. Vexa is only generating fear of the Fist."
Galland shifted his robes to remove invisible wrinkles, and finished his sentiments. "Vexa Wran is but a lost soul trying to bring together the criminal factions of the galaxy to rule it. What kind of a galaxy would that be, I wonder? Who would truly be in charge, and what sort of order would we have? What would happen to those who do not want it? Would it be worse than the Empire?"
Galland looked into the lens of the camera. "These are serious issues to think about. I would encourage the citizens of the galaxy to work harder to repel the Rising, lest we find ourselves in a darker galaxy than ever before… with but a child at the helm."
Vexa exploded off her throne. "A CHILD?!"
In a fit of rage, Vexa took her fury out on the nearest target: Tharan. The child, having felt her anger, but not expecting her outburst, was taken by complete surprise. He shrieked in agony and writhed on the floor.
Unsatisfied by the lack of physical contact, Vexa resorted to striking him with her booted feet and fists. When the boy lay unmoving before her, Vexa forced herself to stop, and she whipped her comlink off her belt. She opened a channel to her best splicer.
"Yes Milady?" he answered promptly.
"Get me everything you can on Senator Galland. I want his homeworld, his family's location, his place of residence… I want everything!"
"At once, Milady. I will have it to you within twenty-four hours."
"You'd better." Vexa growled.
She disconnected, and then called for a medical droid to take the boy to be doctored up. She didn't need him dead.
Vexa closed her eyes and calmed herself down, knowing that her revenge on Galland would be swift and decisive. Nobody feared her? They thought she was inept?
She would show them why they were right to be afraid of Vexa Wran. They should be very afraid.
00000
Wedge looked forward as his scopes lit up with the arrival of several enemy blips. The New Republic had one large fleet waiting at Sullust, banking on the thought that the Rising would continue their punch down the Rimma Trade Route.
Wedge was gratified to hear that they had been correct, and the New Republic was ready to defend Sullust. All New Republic ships opened fire before the Rising fleet had a chance to get their shields up, and two vessels went up in flames almost immediately. A few more sustained heavy damage, but the Rising otherwise retained most of their numbers without issue.
Wedge and Rogue Squadron formed up around the Keelkana, the New Republic's flagship for this fleet. They had been tasked with staying with the Mon Calamari vessel throughout the battle to come.
"All flights, keep sharp," a voice warned over the comlinks, "the enemy has dispatched fighters."
"Copy that, thanks," Wedge replied, and he switched to his squadrons' frequency. "Split into trios, except Tycho and me."
Since Hobbie was absent, Wedge had decided that all but he and Tycho would use three-man formations to increase their chances of security. Wedge was confident in his and Tycho's abilities, and would rather chance his own hide than those of his squad-mates.
The, Keelkana, being commanded by Admiral Giann Igeal, surged forward in the battle, heading straight for the Rising's flagship, the Surefist. This had been their plan: attack fast and hard and try to punch through the Rising's defenses before they could truly get into position.
Wedge and his men followed the Keelkana, while the rest of the Republic's forces were to gang up on the remaining Rising ships. Wedge focused on his own portion of the battle, knowing that for him to become distracted would be a death-sentence.
"Commander Antilles," Igeal said over his comm. unit.
"Go ahead, Admiral."
"Try to take out their shields, we will continue our own bombardment."
"Understood Sir." Wedge clicked off and relayed the orders to his men, who acknowledged and moved into action.
Wedge and Tycho increased their speed and came as close to the enemy flagship as possible, dodging laser cannon fire and waiting for when the enemy's own fighters would catch up. Wedge took out one tower with a precisely aimed shot, and he watched it explode. Tycho stayed with him, targeting anything he could as well.
The two men circled about the ship's prow in an effort to reach their shield generators. But as they cleared the front of the vessel, the Rising's fighters caught up. Wedge and Tycho maneuvered in sync, having flown together for so long that they knew each other's flight habits by heart.
Wedge's proximity alert pinged, and he barrel-rolled to port to avoid a blast from a fighter on his six. Tycho broke off momentarily to come in behind Wedge's attacker, and took him out. Wedge caught two fighters in his scopes and eliminated them as well.
Then Wedge saw an opportunity to target the shield generator.
"Tycho, with me!" Wedge ordered.
"Right."
They flew straight for the still-smoking form of another turbolaser that had been destroyed, using the billowing smoke to mask their approach. Wedge relied on his instruments to tell him when to shoot, and he did so… and scored a hit, but though the shields were weakened, they did manage to hold.
"Good attempt, Commander," Tycho called. "We've almost got them."
Wedge hummed his agreement, and the pair veered off to come back in. But more fighters from the Rising got in their path, and Wedge found his hands full with the enemy's forces.
Wedge and Tycho engaged in dogfights for several more minutes before a warning klaxon blared from Wedge's scopes.
"What now?" Wedge asked, checking his scopes amidst fighting another enemy ship.
To his dismay, another group of ships emerged from hyperspace, and Wedge's astromech droid immediately identified Vexa's ship, the Dark Mystery. But the rest of the ships were unfamiliar to Wedge. And yet… something about them tickled his memory banks.
Where had he seen those designs before?
"Trade Federation ships?" Rogue Eight asked in disbelief. "Seriously?"
Wedge blinked in shock. Hadn't the Trade Federation been disbanded at the end of the Clone Wars?
Tycho voiced that same thought and then continued. "I hope this doesn't also mean they brought droid production back online…"
Wedge grimaced when the new fleet of ships, who had entered the system well clear of the battle, punched through Sullust's atmosphere and headed for the capital city.
"Admiral, what are your orders Sir?" Wedge inquired, finding himself with a temporary lull in the fighting. Tycho stayed with him as they waited for a response.
"We are sending what ships we can to try taking out the new arrivals," Igeal sounded grim. "I want you to stay on target, though. We need to take out Admiral Phlox."
"What if the Fist is in that battle group, Sir?" Wedge asked seriously.
Igeal sighed. "Force help them, then. And Lady Wran appears to be here herself as well."
Wedge understood the implications of that: for both Vexa and her new Fist to be here was double trouble.
"Right," Wedge muttered, shaking his head and returning to the mission on hand: taking out the Surefist's shields.
Wedge was unaware of the transmission sent to Igeal that Malastare was under attack now too.
00000
Panic engulfed the streets as the fleet of ships descended through the air toward his city, and Nion Nubb could do little but wait to see of the city's defenses held the enemy off.
The capital city Pinyumb was not defenseless, and in fact had a good number of anti-aircraft weaponry. But though the turrets got a few small gunships that emerged from the larger ships, the main enemy ship opened up with all her batteries on the city below.
Nion thinned his lips and turned to his aids. "Send troops to intercept whatever comes off those large transports."
"Yes sir."
As his aids scurried to follow his orders, Nion returned his attention to the landing ships, and he recognized the designs from the Clone Wars. Realizing what these ships carried, Nion's blood went cold.
Turning to another man who was with him, he barked another order. "Get some drones over there so we can see what in blazes is going on!"
"Yes sir!" the other saluted and disappeared. He returned a few minutes later with a large datapad, which he handed to Nion.
It wasn't long before explosions and screams sounded far from the Capitol building, upon which he stood, and Nion looked to the view being presented via the drones now hovering above the fighting. Sure enough, there were battle droids attacking his beloved city. Not only that, but every once in a while, he caught sight of red blades and live personnel wearing the mark of the Rising.
Nion counted a few different red lightsabers, and yet he did not see…
His aid sucked in a terrified breath when a masked, armored figure appeared on the screen. "Vexa's Fist is here!"
Nion also swallowed in apprehension, though his own breath caught when he saw that Vexa Wran herself was also engaged in this battle.
Nion looked to the ship still blasting away at Pinyumb, realizing that it was the Dark Mystery.
"Force help us!" Nion whispered, not sure what to do. He scrambled inside to the communications array and put in a call to the New Republic's flagship, the Keelkana.
"Prime Minister Nion," Admiral Igeal answered. "What is it?"
"Pinyumb is under attack, and Lady Wran is here, as is the Fist!"
Igeal swore softly. "I saw her ship arrive. We are doing our best to help, Prime Minister. Be advised that I have just received word that the Rising is also attacking Malastare at this very moment."
"What do you suggest I do, Sir?" Nion asked fearfully.
Igeal clacked his front jaws. "Do what you can to defend your city, or decide which way you would like this to go. I will respect whatever you decide."
Nion blanched. "I understand, Admiral."
Igeal signed off, and Nion was left to watch helplessly as hundreds of droids swept through his city, aided by Vexa and her Fist. Slowly but surely, Nion's forces were taken out, citizens were being killed without mercy, and property was still being destroyed from above.
Nion thinned his lips. "Get me a connection to the Dark Mystery!"
His aids did so, and soon a Togruta teenager looked upon him. "This is Kida Varik; I am in charge of the bridge right now. What do you want?"
Nion couldn't believe he was about to negotiate with a teenager. A teenager! But time was short.
"I am Prime Minister Nion Nubb, and I would like to discuss a surrender," Nion said crisply. "Please contact Lady Wran so we can stop this unnecessary violence!"
Kida snorted but cut the line, and Nion waited with baited breath to see if she was ignoring him or relaying his request. His answer came when the Togruta teen returned to the screen.
"Call the New Republic: tell them to pull out completely, or we will raze Pinyumb to the ground." Kida ordered.
Nion nodded. "When will the attack on my city stop?"
"When the New Republic leaves." Kida gave him an imperious look. "So if I were you, I would hasten to make that call."
With that she signed off, and Nion put another call through to Igeal.
"I understand, Prime Minster," Igeal said grimly. "We will retreat. Mark my words, this isn't over. We will work to free Sullust once again."
Nion had little choice but to trust in the New Republic government. Nion then contacted Kida and relayed what the decision had been. He observed Kida watch her scopes from her position on the bridge and then put the call out to Vexa, who called a cease-fire.
"Force help us…" Nion prayed.
00000
Wedge blinked at the comm. unit. "You can't be serious, Admiral!"
"I am very serious, Commander," Igeal said ominously. "All Forces are to retreat. Disengage from the Rising forces or the capital city below will be completely destroyed. Prime Minister Nion has chosen to surrender in order to buy time."
Wedge sighed, but knew better than to argue. "Yes Sir. Where do we rendezvous?"
"All Republic forces are to go to Derra to regroup."
Wedge acknowledged, and found that the Rising fleet had also broken off, and was now standing at the ready. Wedge did not like this one bit, but he followed orders regardless.
00000
It was the lunch hour at school, but Ben wasn't hungry. No: he wanted to start his personal research project. Ben entered the library and took a seat at the screen furthest from the door. He pulled out a piece of flimsi and a stylus, ready to take notes. Ben also had his datapad ready to download any files he might need to view later.
Ben took a deep breath and opened the Holonet, typing Doctor Giddalti into the search box once it came up. Ben did not know the man's first name, but he suspected that such a name was not very common, so Ben hoped the man would not be too hard to locate.
Ben saw a few different things come up. There were a few articles about a man with that name, and Ben clicked on the first one that had a legitimate business stamp to it. This way, Ben would know he was getting facts, not opinions.
Ben saw the man's full name, and he jotted it down so he wouldn't forget it: Doctor Quin-Tain Giddalti. Ben briefly wondered if this was the right person. But since this particular person was a medic, Ben had hopes that he was on the right track. The boy pursed his lips, and decided to mark the article and check to see if any other people came up under the surname. He didn't want to work at a name, only to find it really wasn't his true target. There was only a small handful of other Giddalti's, but none of the others were doctors, so Ben knew first person was the correct man.
Ben returned to the previous article and read through the text, picking out key information. Apparently, the Duros man was a brilliant doctor and scientist who was making huge strides in the medical field. The man had already introduced several new techniques unique to certain groups of species that had saved many lives.
Ben found a holo of him standing with another man in a fancy suit. The fancy-clad man was offering an award to Giddalti, who smiled pleasantly. But something in the man's smile set Ben on edge. Was it because of what he suspected this man was capable of, or was it his gut trying to warn him of something?
Ben took in the Duros' deeply blue skin and red eyes set in a bulbous head. He did not know how to read a Duros, but even so, Ben did not like the man he saw before him.
Ben finished the article, finding the name of the man's clinic— The New-Hope Clinic— and that it was on one of the orbital cities of Duro. Ben jotted down the address, though he knew there was no way he would be going there.
Ben finished the article, noting that it mainly focused on the man's accomplishments in the medial field. All of which were good things. Three other articles were the same thing, and Ben scratched his head, returning to the search options yet again. Maybe if he could find the man's workplace information…
He typed in the clinic name and planet location, and was rewarded with a holosite for The New-Hope Clinic. Ben selected it and a pleasant page came up, full of smiling patients and positive messages. There was a large comment section, with many of the remarks focusing on how wonderful their experience had been there.
Ben sat back, wondering if he was grasping at straws. Maybe he was wrong?
But no… Ignis would not be afraid of the person portrayed so warmly on the holosite before Ben now. The site, and the clinic, must be a cover for the man's darker meddling in medicine. After all, where did the man's breakthroughs come from? How did he do the science to get these techniques? Who, or what, did he experiment on to learn these things?
The thought made Ben shudder.
Ben spent the next half hour searching for any information on Giddalti that was not all sunshine and roses. Ben even tried the MyView site, hoping that someone had found a leaked video and posted it. But by the time he located anything slightly promising, Ben heard the bell toll that lunch was over.
Sighing, Ben reached for his datapad and plugged it in, downloading the video he had located.
Ben saw the transfer finish, and he swiftly unplugged and threw everything into his backpack without rhyme or reason. Then he was out the door and headed for class. When he got to the room, however, there was a droid there, waiting to tell all students that due to an illness, the teacher was out for the day. The students were therefore free to use the hour however they wanted, as long as it had an academic purpose.
Ben couldn't believe his luck, and he turned to leave again, trying to figure out where he should go to watch the video. The only places he could do so unhindered were the store rooms, or the Great Hall. Ben took to the stairs, going up while most of his classmates either stayed in the room to work on homework, or went down to other levels of the Jedi Temple.
Ben felt the datapad weigh heavily in his backpack, and he found himself entering the first unlocked storeroom he could. Ben sat in a corner and pulled out his datapad, finger poised over the activation switch.
But then he paused, uncertain. Did he really want to go down this road? But Ben had already decided, and so he turned on the datapad and went to his new file. On a whim, Ben grabbed his earbuds for privacy.
Then he played the video.
"Welcome back to my channel, folks," a Balosar man greeted his audience. "If you are unfamiliar with my mission, it is to bring to light the secret deeds of people who are supposedly perfect. How do celebrities get to where they are? How do the rich and powerful make their wealth? These, and other similar questions, are what I aim to answer. Keep in mind that I am mostly speculating. But, there has to be some truth to rumors, leaked videos and such, so I am here to be that voice."
Ben saw a holo of Dr. Giddalti appear, and he held his breath.
"Many are familiar with this man, who has made more breakthroughs in medicine than any other medic in our generation… or most of those from before it. My question is… just how does he do it? Where does this knowledge come from?"
Those were the very queries Ben had, he realized, letting out the breath as the Balosar continued.
"No medical knowledge is just happened upon, folks. One does not become proficient at a procedure without hands-on experience. Don't take my word for it, though; ask any doctor, and they will tell you the same thing. It must be learned through tests and experiments. My question is this, then… who, or what does Doctor Giddalti use to learn these new techniques? Are they willing participants who later get paid handsomely?" The Balosar took a deep breath. "Or is it something else?"
Ben saw a content advisory pop up on-screen for a few seconds, and then the Balosar reappeared.
"I am inclined to believe it is the latter option. How do I know? Well, I have only this leaked video to go off of. I will not reveal my source, per my agreement for their safety, but I know it's legit. Be aware that this video is from many years ago, according to the time-stamp upon it."
Ben was then presented with a hallway scene. At first nothing was amiss, but then three figures appeared. Two burly men in medical smocks escorted a much smaller person between them. The scene was a little choppy, as was usual with the older technology, but it was clear enough for the audience to realize what was happening. A young boy with hair the shade of coal was fighting with all his strength against the adult men. This same boy wore nothing but a pair of white pants, and he was far too thin to be healthy.
And though he clearly did not have much in the way of physical muscle, that did not stop the child from trying to break away. Ben could not make out the boy's facial features clearly, due to his constant struggling and the choppy images.
Just at the point that the boy was about to be taken into a room lit from inside— the light spilled almost invitingly from it— the child threw out his legs and tried to brace against the doorjamb.
One of the men grabbed the child by both arms, while the second took hold of his ankles and forced them together. The boy continued to fight, but it was clear his energy was flagging. Almost too easily, the men carried their victim into the room, and the video stopped when the door shut.
Ben swallowed, his stomach in knots as he absorbed what he'd just seen. Had that boy been Ignis? The child in the video couldn't have been more than seven! He had clearly been quite young.
The Balosar reappeared. "Well, folks, there you have it. If this child's reaction to being put in that room are any indication, I would say that there is a darker side to Doctor Giddalti than he lets the galaxy know."
Ben shut the video down, placing a hand over his mouth as he struggled to accept what he had witnessed. It was entirely possible the boy had been Ignis, but Ben had to know for certain. Ben felt something brush against his mind, and the red-haired boy straightened, frowning.
The impression came to him that Mara had a list of contacts who would be able to get such information. Ben pursed his lips, hating to use Mara's position like that.
But what harm would really happen? Ben thought, feeling something stir within him again. He could at least send out a question, right? That wouldn't do any harm.
Ben nodded, making his choice. When everyone was asleep, Ben would use the computer in his father's office to send a message to the splicer named Ghent. Ben had met him once, and while the fellow was a little odd, there was no denying he was excellent at what he did.
With that settled in his mind, Ben left the storeroom.
00000
Luke stood outside the office where Zorion Tanda worked. Artoo was at his side, assuring Luke that this was the correct address.
Luke walked inside, taking in the starkly clean environment about him. A Bivall stood behind a desk, and she looked to him questioningly.
"May I help you?" she inquired.
"Yes, thank you." Luke lowered his hood and approached. "I was told that Zorion Tanda knew and worked with Corsair Atriedes. Is Zorion available to talk?"
The woman opened her mouth, but was cut off by the arrival of a male Bivall, who wore a utilitarian pair of coveralls. This newcomer approached Luke without hesitation.
"Ahnns sent me a message saying that you would drop by, Master Skywalker." Zorion dipped his head. "And I am sorry to have wasted your time, but I am afraid Corsair and I had a strictly business relationship. We were nothing more than workplace partners. I helped him develop a few of his ideas, and he gave me a fair percentage of the proceeds." Zorion checked his wrist chrono. "And I apologize once more, but I must leave, or I will miss my ferry."
Luke tried not to let his disappointment show. "I understand. Thank you for your time, then."
Zorion waved as Luke took his leave, looking apologetic.
Luke glanced at Artoo. "Check that one off, Artoo. Who's next in line?"
Artoo tootled back and Luke nodded, moving to his X-wing. He maneuvered Artoo into the socket and took off. Ten minutes later, they were at the opposite edge of the small city that both Zorion and the next contact resided upon.
"Why don't you wait with the ship this time?" Luke suggested to the droid. "I'll take notes as needed."
Artoo confirmed that he understood, and Luke exited the cockpit. He made his way to the correct building and entered. This one was a supply shop for just about everything one could need to upkeep a house or personal ship.
The owner looked up as Luke appeared, and the man's grease-stained face showed his surprise.
"You're Luke Skywalker!"
Luke nodded politely. "I am. Are you Ronor Renda?"
The man inclined his head. "That's me. What can I do for you? Do you need a part?"
"No, thank you," Luke replied. "I am looking for information on Corsair Atriedes."
Ronor blinked. "Corsair? Oh, of course I know him. He was one of my top customers! He always said that he wanted to support smaller merchants like me who relied on our business to feed our families."
Luke felt hope blossom. "What can you tell me about him?"
Ronor smiled warmly. "That he was a very generous person. That man gave me more tips than I thought were necessary, but he would never take them back when I tried to tell him it was too much. He always said to put the extra credits into a fund for my children. So I did. Through him I saved enough to send all three of my children to college for a year each. After that, they'll have to earn their own way through school."
Ronor's happy demeanor faded. "But Corsair was always very lonely. I don't think he knew I could read it in him, but I could. I have a gift for that, though most people downplay it."
Luke was intrigued. "A gift, you say?"
Ronor, seeing Luke was taking him seriously, nodded. "Yes, though I don't think I'd call it the Force, Master Jedi. I am not one of you."
Luke lifted a placating hand. "A man I call brother has a similar ability, and he is completely Force-blind. In fact, he can be better at reading people than me."
Ronor nodded his thanks at Luke's attempt to soothe him. "That means a lot, Sir."
Luke pursed his lips. "You said he was lonely?"
"Aye," Ronor sighed softly, "I think the man never really got over the death of his wife. He was very close to her, but her illness finally claimed her life. But she fought it for many years and triumphed, so he was also proud of that fact."
Luke had never met Corsair's wife, he realized. The whole time the Atriedes family had been on Tatooine, it had been Corsair and Venussia that Luke had dealt with.
"I am sorry to hear she passed," Luke murmured honestly.
"As am I," Ronor said evenly. "She was like a grandmother to my children when they were younger. She would often come with her husband to my shop, just to see my family. I hadn't met a kinder woman outside of my own wife."
Luke tilted his head. "What was her name, if I may ask?"
"Sophronia," Ronor said reverently.
Luke nodded slowly, taking a moment to think on the woman who was Shmi's maternal grandmother.
"Would you happen to know where Corsair went after he retired?" Luke asked after a moment.
"I am sorry, but I don't know the exact place." Ronor shook his head. "He did, however, purchase quite a few things from my store. It was like he was constructing a brand-new home."
Luke catalogued this new information, and then looked to the other. "Did he purchase anything that might indicate where he was building?"
"Nothing out of the ordinary," Ronor answered.
"Alright, thank you." Luke paused, and then took out a small credit chip and laid it on the counter. "For your children."
Ronor offered a shocked look, but nor did he object when Luke left.
Luke and Artoo visited several more people before he struck gold. This person was a Siniteen named Nthako Viwe, and he ran a business as prosperous as Corsair's. However, while Corsair manufactured transparisteel viewports and such, as well as interior luxuries, Nthako specialized in armor plating, shields and legal weaponry.
And unlike Ahnns, Nthako was not afraid to speak of Corsair.
"Of course I know him!" Nthako laughed loudly. "Corsair and I go way back!"
Luke sat as a guest in the man's office, and now he straightened in his chair. "How do you know him?"
"Corsair and I were in business school together, that's how," Nthako replied, a fond look in his eyes. "That man was sharp, I tell you. He finished first in his class, with me right behind him."
"And the two of you remained friends after college, am I guessing correctly?" Luke pressed, sensing that he was on to something.
"Yes," Nthako said, "Corsair and I helped each other grow our respective businesses. And since we were producing different items for the same purpose, we often collaborated to get contracts we otherwise would have missed out on. We offered package deals a few times from our combined companies that made us the favorable bidders for the jobs to be done."
Luke nodded, impressed. "That is amazing. I didn't know he was so… savvy at what he did. Yes, he was high in the company when I met him, but…"
"Ah," Nthako chuckled, "that's not a strange sentiment. Corsair was also humble, almost to a fault, though he knew when to put his foot down."
"Do you know where he is now?" Luke almost felt like holding his breath. "I really need to speak with him."
"He didn't tell me where, but he promised to keep in touch. Whenever he contacts me, it's through a secure channel. He doesn't want to be disturbed in his retirement, and I can understand that."
Disappointment began to seep into Luke's being and, seeing this, Nthako leaned forward.
"Listen, because I know who you are, and that you are trustworthy, I will give you a portion of my own trust, Master Skywalker." Nthako spoke in a quieter, more serious tone. "I can tell you that Corsair had a small bucket list, and he went on for weeks before retiring about some sort of extreme mountain experience. He even purchased his excursion at the earliest time he could. He really didn't want to miss out on it. I was there when he secured the purchase, though I must say, the thought of sleeping on a bed chained to a cliff is not my idea of fun. Anyway, he went to Serenno, and the company he went through was Extreme Experiences."
Luke couldn't quite contain his glee at finally having a solid lead, and he rose to his feet, offering his hand. "I really appreciate this, Sir."
Nthako shook the hand. "Do take care, Master Skywalker."
Luke had a new spring in his step as he returned to his X-wing and suited up for the flight. "Artoo, get the coordinates for Serenno."
Artoo acknowledged, and Luke leapt into the cockpit, stowing his Jedi robe for when he landed. Then he pulled for the stars, and as soon as he was able, made the jump to hyperspace.
00000
Emry stood calmly in her practice area during the final class of the day: lightsaber technique. In her hand, a practice lightsaber waited to be activated, ready for use as the remote she was to train with was placed before her in the usual manner.
Emry nodded to Master Porro, and then glanced over to where Wina and her posse sat every day. Since they were non-Force students, they had one less class of the day because there were only so many regular subjects to teach in a given school year. As usual, Wina had her gaze focused mainly on Emry, who almost welcomed it.
Emry did not yet initiate her remote, but closed her eyes and went to the center of her being with the Force. Emry found the flame that had been stoked the night before, and floated in it for a minute. She even mouthed the same thing she had during her revelatory moment.
For the first time ever, Emry felt grounded; not just in the Force, but in herself. She felt truly ready to take on anything that was sent her way in school. Emry would no longer face her studies with uncertainty. She was well aware that there would be failures and difficulties ahead, but Emry knew that with perseverance and faith— in herself and in the Force— she would triumph eventually.
And she was okay with that: Emry could and would be patient.
Once she felt ready, Emry opened her eyes, thumbed the blade on, and listened to the hum of the blue blade. Personally, Emry hoped that she could have a green blade like her father when she was ready for her own weapon. Maybe one of a lighter shade of green?
Emry refocused and used the Force to start the remote. Emry opened herself to the Force and adjusted her hold upon the hilt of her weapon. When the droid shot its first laser at her, Emry was ready, her weapon moving to deflect the red shot.
The next blast was a double that came one after the other, and a few inches apart. The droid zipped from right to left as it shot, and Emry tracked it, her blade once again intercepting the lasers. Now the droid began to bob, changing elevation without warning. The next blast came for her head, and Emry lifted her blade appropriately, watching the red blast bounce harmlessly away from her.
Emry felt a stirring of pride that she was performing so well, but she forced herself not to lose focus. The droid whipped behind her and shot three times. Emry blocked one behind her head, before she spun to meet the other two: one left, one right.
And so, she continued the session until her droid shut down at the end of the current round. Emry, lost in the thrill of the exercise, had a brief moment of confusion until she noticed the droid sitting where it had started.
Emry grinned when she realized that she'd not missed any of the shots, and she whooped softly. Feeling her lungs starting to tighten, Emry pulled out her inhaler, faced Wina and took a deliberate breath of her medication.
Wina narrowed her eyes in Emry's direction, but a pair of faces moved into her line of sight, blocking her view of Wina. Emry saw two of her classmates approach.
"Whoa Emry, that was amazing!" A boy gushed.
"How'd you do it?" The girl seconded.
Emry hesitated, not used to adulating attention from her peers. Honestly it made her uncomfortable, but she understood that they meant well.
"I found my center, is all." Emry told them quietly. "You'll find yours, don't worry."
Master Porro approached, shooing the other students away gently to resume their own practice.
"Well done Miss Emry." He nodded in approval. "Why not keep at it, and see if you can do it again? And once you get things down more smoothly, I will move you to a different routine with the remote."
Emry inclined her head. "Okay Master Porro."
As he ambled away again, Emry eagerly took to more sessions with the remote, and by the end of class, she was sweaty and tired… but elated. She had missed a few scant shots, but overall, she'd had almost all perfect scores.
With an air of accomplishment, Emry packed her things, ready to find her mother and tell her the good news. The next time she spoke with her father, she'd be sure to fill him on it too. The thought of seeing Luke's pleased smile made Emry happy.
Emry collected her things and exited the room, feeling the smallest hint of nerves as the upcoming confrontation loomed. She knew Wina would target her again, despite what had just occurred, and Emry was looking forward to it. She was ready to stand up to the bullies, but she was also wary of what the others' reaction would be.
She was unaware that Ben had also entered the hallway, several paces behind her.
Emry rounded a familiar corner and approached the stairwell, where, as usual, Wina and her gang waited for Emry. The strawberry-blonde girl approached with head held high, unwilling to allow them to cow her any longer.
"Well, well," Wina began, crossing her arms and standing with a hip jutted out. "If it isn't Miss Skywalker."
"Hello Wina," Emry said pleasantly.
"You might have gotten perfect scores," Wina remarked nastily, "but you will always be the wheezer of this school."
Wina's group snickered, and a few even began to mimic an asthma attack. Emry took a deep breath and looked Wina in the eye.
"You were right about one thing, Wina," Emry said calmly, her voice both cold as steel, and yet laced with healthy self-esteem. "I am a Skywalker."
Emry drew herself up to her full height, holding her head proudly, but not haughtily. "I am the daughter of Luke and Mara Jade Skywalker, the two Jedi Masters who founded the New Jedi Order. I am also the granddaughter of Anakin Skywalker and Padme Amidala Skywalker. The former was the Hero With No Fear, and the latter was both a queen and senator." In that moment, Emry was the perfect blend of her parents, and yet her own person. "Every member of my family has, or has had a trial, ailment or past to overcome, and they have done so. They continue to do so. I will be no different."
Emry stepped up to be nose-to-nose with Wina. "You can say what you want about me, do what you want to mock me, but I will no longer be cowed by you lot. I have chosen not to let your negativity bother me any longer. And I will certainly not allow it to ruin my life." Emry narrowed her eyes at Wina, who actually took a step back. "I will not allow you, or anyone else to drag me down and away from my aspirations."
Wina said nothing for a moment, and Emry started to walk away.
"You're sure confident all of a sudden for someone who's always been a softie," Wina said to her back. "What gave you this sudden spurt of courage? Are you just trying to get me to back off? To scare me away?"
Emry looked at Wina over her shoulder. "Actually, it's something I learned from my big brother. I will be a Jedi, asthma or no, and I will work at it until I have achieved my dream, however long that takes. Nothing you or anyone else says or does will stop me."
She abruptly smiled at Wina. "You no longer hold any power over me, Wina."
With that, Emry descended the stairs. When she located Mara waiting for her and Ben, Emry grinned from ear to ear and hustled into Mara's arms. Her mother was surprised, and Emry pulled back enough to look her in the eyes.
"I'm alright now, Mom," Emry said softly, but poignantly.
Mara studied her daughter, noting there was indeed a change for the better, and Mara hugged her daughter once more. "I am so proud of you, Emry."
Emry promised to tell Mara everything that evening, and she welcomed the renewal of her relationship with her mother.
00000
Shmi and Anya were both at work in the Lorelei, with Shmi bussing her last few tables, and Anya just finishing taking payment for the final customers of her shift. Once both had completed their tasks, they moved together to the locker room to gather their few belongings.
While there, Grafan poked his head in the doorway. "I'd like to see the both of you in my office, please."
Shmi and Anya shared a look, and then followed him, slinging their respective satchels over their shoulders. Once inside his office, Grafan took his seat and indicated that they should do likewise.
"I wanted to let you both know that I found replacements for your positions." Grafan smiled at them both. "I must say, you are both hard workers, and I will be sad to see you go. However, we all agreed this whole arrangement was temporary. So, please accept my thanks, and of course, your final payments."
Shmi and Anya took the credits with nods, and then glanced at their uniforms.
"We don't have a change of clothes with us, Sir," Anya said.
"Keep them, I ordered new uniforms anyway." Grafan indicated their shirts, which were clearly well-used before they had been given to them. "These ones are getting too run-down."
The young ladies nodded, rising.
"Thank you for the opportunity," they said together.
Grafan inclined his head and returned to his computer, dismissing them. Anya and Shmi ambled back to the front area.
"Well, this frees us up to resume our search," Anya said, but Shmi stopped abruptly when she saw the armored figure sitting across the establishment.
Anya frowned at Shmi, following her gaze to a young man about their age. He wore a set of black and orange Mandalorian armor, but Anya did not recognize the face.
Anya gazed at him curiously for a moment and then offered an inquiry to her friend. "What is the matter?"
Shmi tore her gaze from the Mandalorian to Anya, a little surprised as she indicated the person they had spotted. "You don't know who that is?"
Anya lifted a brow. "Should I?"
Shmi blinked. "Your history with Ignis would suggest you did."
Anya didn't like the sound of that, and she folded her arms. "Shmi, enough runaround. What is going on?"
Shmi stepped closer. "That is Kavis Leven."
Anya's eyebrows lifted to almost disappear underneath her bangs, and then suddenly her eyes cooled with a deep-seated anger. "Kavis?"
Shmi nodded, a little worried at Anya's reaction. "You know who he is then?"
"Of course I know him," Anya hissed, "but I had never met him before now, so I did not know what he looked like."
Shmi had never seen Anya like this, and it set her back a little. Shmi placed a hand on her shoulder. "Listen, I am angry with Kavis too for what he did to my siblings and I. However, he would be a great source of information, because he worked with Vexa."
Anya met Shmi's gaze, considering. "I will never trust him, but I agree with you." Seeing the look in her friend's eyes, Anya softened. "I'm okay Shmi. I can function just fine."
Shmi decided to trust her friend. "Did Kavis ever meet you?"
"No," Anya said, shaking her head.
"Then he won't know who you are," Shmi murmured thoughtfully, eyeing the uniform Anya still wore. "Hey, do you think you would be able to get Kavis outside? I can wait around back."
Anya considered. "I think I could get him out back, though I would have to be devious. He's likely not a fool."
Shmi smirked. "Just get him outside. Mom taught me all I need to know about excellent marksmanship, and about stealth."
Anya thought she knew where Shmi was going with this, and smirked. "I think Mara would be proud."
"Of us both." Shmi beamed and left through the front door, taking out her small hold-out blaster that she kept hidden.
Meanwhile, Anya counted to thirty and then took out a piece of flimsi and scrawled some text onto it. Then she walked over to Kavis' table. Giving him a polite smile, Anya leaned closer to speak with him.
"Excuse me, Sir," she said. "Are you Kavis?"
The other looked at her. "Who wants to know?"
"Sorry to bother you, but I was asked to give you a message." Anya held up the flimsi. "I don't know who, but they said they'd be outside."
Kavis took the note and read it while Anya held her breath. She had taken a risk and used a page from Ignis' book. She was pretending that the note was from one of Vexa's acolytes that Anya had a name for: Katu.
Meet me behind the Lorelei, helmet off so I can verify it's you. Don't keep Lady Wran waiting.
~Katu.
Kavis growled low in his throat and stood from the table. "Thank you."
He brushed past her, and Anya pretended that she was still on shift as she worked her way to the front once more. She waited ten seconds after he left, and then followed, throwing on her jacket and pulling the hood up to help conceal her face.
Finding him was a little tricky, but then she spotted his armored bulk turning the corner behind the Lorelei. Anya pulled out the tiny blaster Ignis had gifted to her on one of his rare visits. It was small, but powerful, and its stun blasts would penetrate almost anything, including armor. Though, Anya did not know if that included beskar. If Kavis' armor was beskar, that might prove problematic.
Anya followed to the mouth of the alleyway, and peeked around the corner. Kavis stood several steps inside the alley, looking wary, though he did hold his helmet under his arm.
"Katu?" the young man called.
Anya held her breath… then a shot rang through the air, and suddenly Kavis was on the ground, unconscious. Anya felt a stab of disappointment that she hadn't been able to shoot him, but she let it pass. Maybe next time.
Shmi appeared out of nowhere, and the young women high-fived each other.
"Now we just need to get him to our ship," Anya said, already hefting one arm of their captive.
Shmi took the other one, and between them they dragged an unconscious Kavis away, though Shmi had grabbed his helmet.
"If anyone asks, he had one too many drinks, and passed out," Shmi whispered, and they shared a laugh.
At the halfway point, Shmi grunted. "He's heavier than he looks, isn't he?"
Anya was getting tired also. "Well, he wouldn't be so weighty without his armor."
"Yeah." Shmi puffed.
They trudged along, receiving a few odd stares, and even one question, though the pair of them stuck to their cover story of Kavis being drunk. And on Ord Mantell, nobody batted an eye about that fact, as it was an everyday occurrence.
When they were almost there, the girls noticed a large group of people nearby the bay that Towan ran his shop out of. By the looks of things, they were not very happy, though Shmi did not know what the problem was.
Anya seemed to share her sentiments, and nodded to the rear of the building. "Maybe we should use the back entrance."
Shmi nodded, and they veered that direction. Shmi saw that a few people caught sight of them, and she waited to find out if they would give them any trouble. But the ladies got inside without any more issues.
Though of course, when Towan saw them, he did a double-take.
"What is going on?" he demanded warily.
"We finally got the break we were hoping for." Shmi explained evasively. "Don't worry, you're not in any danger."
Towan looked at the armored figure. "You two captured a Mandalorian?"
Anya snorted disdainfully. "I highly doubt he eared this set of armor."
Towan looked uncomfortable still. "Why do you have him? Is he a friend?"
"No!" Both Anya and Shmi almost barked, before they softened toward him.
"Sorry Towan," Shmi said. "This is someone we know, though he will prove… difficult. But we need his help, and he owes us a favor."
Towan sighed, shaking his head. "So, I take it you're leaving Ord Mantell now?"
Shmi nodded while Anya dumped Kavis and ran into the ship. "We are, though we finished the agreed work."
"Yes, you did," Towan smiled warmly. "My dear Ashlyn, if you ever need a full-time job, I will always have a spot for you here."
Shmi felt her heart blossom. She had come to truly like Towan, and she appreciated that the Aleena man had come to view her as a friend.
"Thank you, Towan. If you ever need my help…" She bit her lip, and then knelt before him, taking out her contacts to reveal her true eye color: blue. "My name is actually Shmi Skywalker. You can find me through my parents, or the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. I will help you whenever you need it."
Towan's mouth hung agape, and it was clear that he hadn't had a clue who she really was. But nor did he get angry.
In fact, he smiled wider and hummed with joy. "I had a Skywalker helping me, no wonder things got done so well around here! It's truly been an honor!"
Anya returned then, blinking in surprise at Shmi, but not commenting. She slapped a pair of binders on Kavis, who was just starting to come around.
Towan stood back as Shmi replaced her brown contacts and knelt before the young man. She wanted him to see her when he woke fully. It took a minute, but Kavis eventually came around with a grumble.
"Morning sunshine." Shmi greeted him with an overly-sweet smile.
Kavis frowned at her voice, clearly confused that the person before him did not match who he remembered it belonging to.
"Shmi?"
She only lifted a brow, and he studied her more intently.
Finally, he shifted. "It is you, but why are you on Ord Mantell?"
"Why are you?" Shmi deflected smoothly.
"Personal reasons."
"Really?" Shmi countered. "Nobody comes here for those, and you know it."
Shmi was drawing heavily on what Han had shared with her; the better to draw information from Kavis.
Kavis snorted. "I do not have to tell you anything."
"That's fine by me, but you are not going back to whatever you're here for until you do something for us in return." Shmi stood, giving him a stern look.
Kavis narrowed his eyes, either not catching, or dismissing her use of 'us'. "You don't say? And what, might I ask, is this favor?"
"You're going to help us find Ignis." Shmi commanded him.
Kavis coughed in disbelief. "Like hell I will! Besides, I don't know where he is."
"He'd be with Vexa," Shmi said, uncertain if Kavis knew that Ignis was the Fist. If he didn't, then Shmi wasn't about to be the one to tell him. "So, help me find Vexa."
"Well, that's easy," Kavis snarked, "just put yourself into the path of the Rising."
Shmi growled low in her throat, and snapped out a hand to grab hold of his chest-plate. She yanked him harshly forward and bent closer. In the back of her mind, she had the image of Mara doing the very same thing, and she allowed herself a moment of humor before she returned to business.
"You owe me this." Shmi declared.
Kavis snorted. "I owe you nothing."
Shmi glared at Kavis. "After what you did to my family, you sure as fire do!"
Kavis looked away, his conscience piqued, something Shmi did not miss. Kavis eventually took in the auburn-haired young woman standing a few inches from Shmi, her green eyes narrowed in his direction. He didn't need to be a Jedi to understand that she did not like him.
"What's her problem?" Kavis indicated the other.
Shmi glanced at her friend. "That's for her to tell, if she feels like it. So, what do you say?"
Kavis shook his head. "No. I'm not in league with Vexa anymore."
"You keep telling yourself that." Shmi remarked sarcastically.
Kavis pitted her with a look. "What are you insinuating?"
"Oh, come on, Kavis!" Shmi said exasperatedly. "You are fully aware that Vexa does not just let people leave service of her. You may have gotten away for now, but she isn't done with you."
The other glared at nothing in particular, and Shmi knew he understood that also, and she connected a few dots.
"That's why you're here: you're hiding from her."
Kavis ground his teeth, but nor did he deny it, so Shmi nodded. Outside the front doors, a loud series of crashes was heard, and Towan hustled to the windows to see what was happening. He let out an odd noise, and then began securing his doors and activating his security systems, complete with a few droids meant for defense.
The Aleena hurried back to them. "Shmi, Raziel, you must go, now. Another riot has started, and they're trying to break into shops. The authorities should be here soon, but I would hate to see you get hurt."
Shmi and Anya shared a look.
"Will you be alright, Towan?" Shmi worried at her lip.
"This is not the first time it's happened," Towan said, though he did sigh. "But I do not understand why they always happen near my store. I run a respectable business."
"Yes, you do." Shmi agreed, offering him her hand to shake, which he took with both hands. Shmi recognized the affectionate gesture and gave him a soft smile.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Towan," Anya said, already moving off to start up the Nebula.
Shmi stood, and grabbed hold of Kavis' chest plate once more, and hauled him with her toward the ship.
Of course, Kavis resisted. "I have my own ship, thank you."
Shmi didn't even look at him. "I don't care. We're taking mine."
"What about my ship?" Kavis demanded angrily. "I just got it, and I don't want to lose it."
Shmi stopped, turning and laying a cold gaze on him that would have made her mother proud. "Well then, I suggest you don't waste our time, Kavis. The sooner you get us to where we want to go, the quicker you can return to your vessel. I hope you parked in a secure location."
She hauled him along once more, using the Force to aid her when her arm got tired. Only when he was secured into an acceleration couch did Shmi let go and join Anya in the cockpit. Shmi took the pilot's seat since, Anya occupied the co-pilot's station. It had been an unspoken agreement between them that since this was Luke's ship, and Shmi was more familiar with it, Shmi would pilot, unless there was an emergency.
Moments later, they were in the air, with Shmi offering Towan a final wave goodbye through the viewport. She really would miss him.
Then they were shooting for the stars, and Shmi took them to a wide orbit before she sat back.
"We should figure out where we need to be going." Shmi told Anya.
The other inclined her head, and Shmi put the ship on autopilot. Both young ladies returned to the lobby, where a stoic Kavis sat where Shmi had left him.
"I am not helping you!" Kavis snapped.
"Actually, you are." Shmi retorted firmly.
Kavis glared at her, and Shmi curled her lip. "You and your imbecilic friends nearly murdered my little brother!" Kavis's own anger cooled with guilt at that, though Shmi wasn't done. "If it hadn't been for Ignis, Ben would be dead, and you would now have Mara Jade Skywalker hunting you to the ends of the galaxy."
Kavis did shudder at that, since Mara's reputation and past were well known.
Shmi sighed, realizing that she did not want to trudge down the path of anger and grudges. "Look, just help us get to Ignis, and I will set you free, you have my word. I will make sure you get back to your ship on Ord Mantell."
Kavis looked to Shmi, and she allowed him to see her sincerity. He shifted his attention to Anya also, and he couldn't hide his curiosity. "So, who's your accomplice?"
Shmi glanced to Anya, who pleaded with Shmi via her eyes not to give away Anya's true identity.
"That is my friend Raziel." Shmi turned back to him. "She's been helping me."
Kavis took that in, though Shmi could sense he had lingering doubts about Anya. Still, he eventually caved.
"Alright, fine. I help you, and we are even, got it? We don't have to owe each other anything more, agreed?"
Shmi held out her hand. "Agreed."
Kavis gave her a pointed look, and Shmi sighed, using the Force to release his binders.
Kavis stood and took her hand. "We have an accord." Then he rubbed the back of his skull. "You two have any painkillers?"
00000
When he came-to, it was with the worst headache that he had ever experienced. He groaned deep within his throat, sounding like a predator protecting it's kill. He managed to open his eyes, though when he did, it was to find himself confused.
Where was he that had actual, semi-mossy stones for walls and ceilings, and not the smooth curves and well-lit spaces that he remembered on Kamino?
Carefully, Hobbie sat up, a hand to his pounding head as he tried to compute that he was, in fact, staring at what looked like an ancient jail cell. His gaze travelled farther, taking in the rear and side wall that were made of stone, and the front and opposite side wall made of iron bars spaced evenly apart. This allowed Hobbie to see into the cell next to his and beyond until the line of cages ended in another rock wall.
His cell had a small window that let in only enough light to see by, and the hint of fresh air. Hobbie thought he could smell vegetation and saltwater, which caused his confusion to mount. He did not remember continents on Kamino…
While his back was to the front of his cell, a petite figure approached, and when they spoke, Hobbie jumped.
"You're awake."
He spun, ready to snap off a retort when he laid eyes on the speaker. Instead, his mouth dropped slightly open in shock. Standing before him, looking equal parts nervous and determined, was a red-skinned Twilek girl who couldn't have been older than ten. She may have been even younger, given her slight frame and obviously juvenile lekku.
She wore a pair of dark gray coveralls, boots, and a utility belt. Her eyes were of an ice blue, and they looked right at him.
Recovering somewhat from his stupor, Hobbie approached the cell door. "Who are you?"
The girl said nothing for a time, and then when she did speak, it was not to answer his question. Hobbie had started to reach for the bars on his cell, but she lifted a warning finger.
"I wouldn't if I were you."
Hobbie paused at her tone of voice. "Don't do what?"
"Touch the front bars," she said. "These cells may be old, but they are not outdated in security measures."
Hobbie retracted his hands, taking a closer look at the bars. And indeed, he saw what he had missed initially. The bars were all wrapped in a hotwire that would zap any who touched it. Hobbie didn't feel like finding out how much voltage the wires carried, but by the warning from the child, he supposed it was high.
Hobbie nodded his thanks and asked her name again. "So… you are…"
"Ah Javaan," said a male voice he recognized cut in, "I am glad you have awakened."
Hobbie stared hard at Tsu Mada as he appeared from a doorway a little way down from his cell. The Kaminoian looked out of place in the halls he walked, with had not been intended for someone of his height.
"Tsu," Hobbie replied coldly, "where are we?"
"The where is unimportant." Tsu turned a disapproving stare on the girl. "You were to let me know when he came-to, Child."
The Twilek girl gave him a defiant stare right back. "I just found out. And watch your tongue: your stay here is conditional."
"As is yours, if I remember correctly." Tsu fired right back without a hitch.
Hobbie did not miss how the girl seemed to lose steam at that declaration. She mumbled something under her breath, but was ignored by the scientist. Tsu returned his gaze to Hobbie.
"You will be my… assistant of sorts, Javaan. I checked with Lady Wran, and she knows nobody by that name. So, I wonder just who you are?" Tsu clucked, and then went on. "Would you like to tell me on your own, or should we do this the hard way?"
Hobbie gave the man a defiant stare, and Tsu sighed. "Very well then. Girl, bring him to me."
The Twilek produced a pair of binders and approached the cell. Hobbie saw her make a gesture, and suddenly he couldn't move. Blinking in shock, he watched as the girl opened his cell, approached and slapped binders on his wrists. Then he could move, and she prodded his back with a weapon she produced from the read of her belt.
"Move it." She ordered.
Hobbie hesitated, and she slapped his back with the flat end of her blade. "Next step is blood being drawn, now move!"
Hobbie sighed and did as he was told. She ushered him to follow Tsu, who led them up a single flight of stairs to a large dungeon that he could stand upright in without issues. All about was the equipment Tsu had been working on moving, and Hobbie got another look at the scalpel squid specimens.
Tsu indicated a table that could be put upright, and the girl moved Hobbie over to it.
"What do you want from me?" Hobbie wanted to know. "You're going to torture me just to get my name?"
"Yes, and no," Tsu said distractedly. "I do not care for your life, only what it can benefit me for. You are as useless as that child."
Hobbie saw the girl flinch, a flash of hurt moving through her eyes so fast he almost missed it. Hobbie wondered if she was a slave here, as Twilek children were often kidnapped for that very purpose.
"However, I do want to know why you infiltrated my laboratory, and were pretending to speak for Lady Wran." Tsu came to stand before Hobbie. "She would also like to know this, and has given me clearance to use all but a squid to get the truth from you."
The Twilek child finished strapping Hobbie to the table, and then walked out of the room. Hobbie was thus left with Tsu… and then Asa appeared as the table moved to a vertical position.
"Here is the interrogation droid you requested Doctor," Asa said, gesturing to the spherical thing floating along behind her.
"Excellent, let us begin." Tsu moved over to Hobbie, accepting the remote for the droid from Asa. "I will give you one more chance, pain-free, to tell me your true identity and what else I want to know."
Hobbie only looked at him. This was not the first time he had been grilled for information. He would not crack.
Tsu seemed amused, and he stepped forward. "They always try to be brave, do they not Asa?"
"Indeed, Doctor," she replied, eyeing him with open disdain. "But they never last long."
Tsu smiled predatorially. "Not with my techniques, they don't."
Hobbie did not like the sound of that, and he tried not to let his apprehension show.
"Your name." Tsu demanded, his humor vanishing.
Hobbie remained stoically silent, and so with a flick of his wrist, Tsu sent the interrogation droid forward.