Hello, guys!

Back from Labor Day. Sorry it took so long to post. Had to go through some revisions and what not.

In any case, I dropped quite a bomb last chapter and for the most part I see it was pretty well received. For some not so much. Totally understand, but just to give some backdrop and spoilers if you haven't seen CW Season 7. Luke's presence in the timeline is causing a ripple effect. Certain events are happening earlier than expected and Maul having visions of the future is one of them. It also affects the prophecy itself. Some of you have theorized it means Luke will die or Anakin will die. But...can't reveal that plot point just yet c:

Bottom line: going back in time and changing things means the timeline itself gets altered. Luke is officially on the radar now. That will affect things.

No mailbag today but as always, thank you all for the support, feedback, and reviews :)

"You cannot control the behaviors of others, but you can always choose how you respond to it."- Roy T. Bennett

Chapter 16. A Game of Dejarik

It didn't take long for Obi-Wan to report the events of Mandalore.

"Maul is indeed in charge of the planet," he told them over transmission. "And it has also devolved into a full scale Civil War."

Yoda, Mace Windu, Plo Koon, and Ki Adi Mundi were all standing in the main war room listening in.

"Unfortunate this is," the Grandmaster murmured. "Deal with Maul swiftly, we must."

"The Senate has been informed," Mundi told Obi-Wan. "And it looks as though the vote will be in our favor."

"There's more I'm afraid. I also have Duchess Satine Kryze in my care. Her sister, Bo-Katan is the leader of the faction against Maul's rule. She has requested Republic intervention."

Mace Windu gave a hard look, deep in thought.

"This situation is becoming more serious than originally anticipated. The Chancellor must be informed."

"Agreed," Koon said. "His support alone would persuade the Senate."

"And what about Satine? She has been forcibly removed from her homeworld and cannot go back to Mandalore at present," Obi-Wan pointed out.

"Accommodations we will find for the Duchess," Yoda said sympathetically. "Much suffering she has endured. For now, we must take this news to the Chancellor."

Obi-Wan nodded though he still looked troubled.

"Something more to say, Master Kenobi?"

"Yes, Master. I don't know how else to say this but Maul attempted to recruit me to his cause. He claimed that a Sith Lord secretly controls both sides of the war and the alias he gave me is familiar: Darth Sidious."

There was an ominous silence before Yoda continued.

"The second time, we've heard that name."

"Yes and while Maul spoke many lies I believe there is a link between this war and this Sith who's true identity remains unknown to us."

"Do you detect that Maul is a part of this link?" Mace asked.

"No, Master. Though he no doubt has some other purpose in mind he seemed anxious, even openly frightened of this Sidious."

The four masters looked at each other, clearly perturbed.

"This information, spread it should not," Yoda concluded.

"Agreed. Best not to spread panic among the public or the Senate," Mundi added.

"Do you have the Duchess with you, Obi-Wan?" Mace asked.

"Yes, we managed to evacuate her in time."

"Good. Report once you've arrived back on Coruscant."

Through the static transmission, the auburn haired Master still appeared unsettled, conflicted even. Though far away in distance, every Master present could sense said discomfort.

"Are you of sound mind, Obi-Wan?" Mace Windu asked, narrowing his dark brown eyes.

"No, Master. Nothing. I will report as instructed once I have reached the capital."

The transmission ended and Obi-Wan vanished from sight.

"I will go to the Chancellor's Office," Koon volunteered.

"Thank you but unnecessary, Master," Mace replied politely. "Commander Luke and Padawan Tano are already in the Senate building speaking with Senator Amidala. They can inform the Chancellor."

"Why are they speaking with Senator Amidala?" Mundi asked carefully.

"Apparently they're assisting with defense plans for Naboo. In case the Separatists decide to strike there again," Windu explained.

It was clear from the look on his face Mundi didn't believe that. But Yoda gave a humorous chuckle.

"A break from such plans, I'm sure they could use."

Luke was a bit surprised that Padme and Ahsoka were friends and opted to catch up casually whenever the war didn't occupy their time. But the more he thought about it, the more such a friendship made sense. The two shared one thing in common after all: Anakin Skywalker. The two females were bound to have a chat or two when not present.

Ahsoka also invited him to tag along after their training session and he happily obliged. For all the hero worship of his father there was also a keen desire to know his mother and what she'd been like.

First impressions were always impactful. Luke found her to be delightfully kind, compassionate, and principled. She grounded her father in ways that at age twenty two, went against his headstrong nature. But she wasn't above taking adventurous risks herself, nor a spot of humor here and there. Especially when it came to talking about Anakin with his Padawan.

"I tell you one thing, he would not leave the planet without artooie."

"He just loves saving the day. It's who he is," Padme laughed. "And he loves that little droid too."

"You can't blame him, he's just so precious," Ahsoka said affectionately, giving R2 a hug, who beeped from either embarrassment or happiness. Luke could usually tell with his longtime companion.

He didn't know if the Togrutan knew the full extent of how involved Anakin and Padme were but she apparently knew enough that they were a secret couple. But Ahsoka made no subtle hint or reference. Even in private, the implication was that the Jedi Knight and Naboo Senator were merely good friends.

"He cares about people," Luke commented quietly but with admiration in his tone. "It sets him apart."

"A trait you also share with him might I add," Padme said with a smile. "By the way, Commander, I never got to properly thank you for the Clone Citizenship Act."

Luke dismissed it out of hand in an attempt to be humble.

"It was the support of the Jedi and your tireless effort that saw the measure pass."

"But no one even thought to point out the injustice until the day you brought it up in this office," Padme told him. "The clones would remain exactly as they were before. I've seen the impact it's had on them."

She ducked underneath her desk and popped up with a bottle of alcohol.

"I'm not one for drinking unnecessarily, but I think this is a special enough occasion. It's a kind of beverage specially made on Naboo. Kanala wine."

Pouring it with the grace and finesse of someone who clearly grew up in royalty she soon gave them each a glass.

"To the Jedi. To you both for making the Republic a better place."

Luke took a sip. It tasted sweet but also earthy which he imagined Naboo to be like despite not ever visiting there, though he'd heard stories of its natural beauty and peaceful scenes. He was quite sure he'd consumed enough hooch to fill an LAAT gunship in the last couple weeks. Obi Wan certainly deserved partial blame for that. The man loved his booze. Ahsoka seemed to be thinking along the same lines.

"You're not going to tell Obi-Wan about being 'underage' are you?" she asked, eyeing him, draining her own glass.

"Wouldn't dream of it."

"I won't tattle either," Padme said with a wink. "You already know that Ahsoka."

"Not that Anakin would care," Luke said with a humorous bark. "In fact, he'd asked us why we broke a rule without him if he weren't currently training."

Just then his comlink started beeping. Setting down his glass, he opened it up and saw the blue image of Master Yoda in front of him.

"Commander Ahch-To. An important message we have for the Chancellor. Deliver it to him, we ask you."

If Luke had still been drinking, he'd have spat it back up.

Just my fucking luck

Nevertheless he complied. Refusing Master Yoda on the basis that the Chancellor was secretly an evil Sith Lord was not an option as of yet.

"Yes, Master. What shall I tell him?"

"Obi-Wan has engaged Darth Maul. In charge of Mandalore, he is."

Luke's heart sank to the pit of his stomach. He cursed himself for being so short sighted.

How could I not realize that Maul wouldn't continue to be a problem? Obi-Wan warned me about him before I came back to the past

"Please tell me he's alive," came the anxious response.

"Escape he did with the Duchess. Support for a Republic task force, we will need. Please inform the Chancellor."

Thus far, the Last Jedi had played this game relatively quietly. Using subtle influence and a word here and there, he'd been trying to move things in a different direction without attracting too much attention. But that was the curse of having prior knowledge of certain events: if one changed too much then the knowledge became essentially useless. Liberating the clones had been a big step but it didn't fundamentally change the nature of the war itself; a manufactured sham being controlled by Sidious.

Calming himself and remembering to give his anxiety and essence to the Force when things became overwhelming, he acquiesced.

"Yes, Master. Right away."

The hologram disappeared and Luke turned to face the two women though they'd already heard what happened.

"If the war starts expanding to neutral systems like Mandalore we're looking at this war extending another two years at least," Padme said, worry evident in her voice.

"But we also can't let someone like Maul take control of an entire world either," Ahsoka countered. "I hate to say it, but we have to go in after him."

"The Senate would have to give approval. But the balance of invading a neutral world must be discussed. Let me talk to him."

"No," Luke said, a little harsher than intended. When he saw the surprised looks on each of their faces he tried to backtrack and softened his tone. "I'll give him the message myself. What's decided afterwards will be up to the Senate and the military."

He wasted no time in leaving Padme's office. No part of him desired to speak one on one with Palpatine again but he'd rather it be him than his mother or Ahsoka.

The monster that lurked within remained unknown. But he'd be damned if he would allow it to touch his family.

Ahsoka and Padme could only glance at each other, concern etched on their faces. R2 beeped softly.

The Chancellor apparently had been waiting for him as Luke was welcomed by a warm, grandfatherly smile upon entry to his office. But to someone who'd seen the true face of the Sith Lord, the horrible, wrinkled, yellow eyed monstrosity that nearly tortured him to death, it would always carry a predatory, serpentine undertone.

"Commander Ahch-To, or Commander 'Luke' as you're being called these days. Welcome," Palpatine said, gesturing towards his desk. "Would you like something? A refreshment perhaps?"

"No thank you, sir."

"It would be no trouble."

Luke felt himself internally stiffen at being charmed but outwardly appeared perfectly normal. The idea of this man wooing him was nearly enough to upturn the contents of his stomach.

You can't corrupt me old man. I know your lies

Still, the fact Palpatine saw him as a potential target to win over was not a welcome development.

"You're very kind," came the cordial response. "Senator Amidala actually already offered me some of Naboo's best before I came up."

"Ah, yes. Kanala wine, I'm quite fond of it myself."

He sat back in his luxurious black chair behind his desk.

"So, to what do I owe the pleasure? I understand the Jedi Council had something to ask of me."

"We've just received word from General Kenobi that the rogue Sith Lord Darth Maul has now taken control of Mandalore. He only just managed to escape with the ruling Duchess Satine Kryze. But the planet is now fully embroiled in civil war."

Palpatine gave a look of sympathy fully believable to anyone who didn't already know he was a conniving, sociopathic Sith Lord himself. That man could act, Luke had to give him that.

"Such a tragedy. I do hope they are both unharmed."

"As far as I know, sir."

"Good, good."

Luke continued on. Sidious had not attempted to intimidate him through the Force but did not want to stick around long enough to find out.

"In any case, the sister of Duchess Satine has requested Republic intervention. The Council supports this action but needs your approval and that of the Senate."

"Say no more, Commander. Though Mandalore is technically neutral the Republic gives aid to all who ask for it. I shall reconvene the Senate at once. And this Darth Maul will not get away with such vile acts, I assure you."

The remark caused Luke's stomach to give a twinge fully aware of what that implication meant.

"I know."

There it was. The smallest glint of malice, a flash of the true evil that lay underneath. Palpatine's mouth curved upwards ever so slightly, creating a chilling effect on the room at large. Luke hadn't meant his remark to sound like a barb or a shot, but he'd said it with just enough implication to warrant the snakelike response.

You'd love nothing more than to shoot that lightning at me, wouldn't you scumbag? But then you'd reveal who you truly are to everyone

"Is there anything else you need from me, Commander?"

It was asked in a way that indicated finality to the conversation. Which suited Luke just fine. He'd pushed it too far anyways. Now was the time to retreat.

"No, Chancellor. I bid you a good night."

"Of course, my friend. Feel free to stop by any time."

Luke bowed and did not look back, almost turning his gait into a power walk before finally exiting the godforsaken office.

Sidious pressed a button on his desk almost as soon as the forty eight year old left.

"Mas, bring me my ship."

Obi-Wan Kenobi had quite a lot to think about.

In the space of a day his entire perception of the Clone Wars had been challenged in ways previously unimaginable. A Sith Lord had told him for the second time that the Republic was under the control of a Sith named 'Sidious', that the Jedi were powerless to stop him and only by joining forces could they defeat the shadowy menace. The Great Negotiator was no fool, he could tell almost every time when being lied to. But that was not what troubled his mind the most.

The revelation that Luke Ahch-To, an unknown entity until about two months ago, was the Chosen One and not Anakin, the boy he and Qui-Gon found on Tatooine, kept his mind going in circles like clockwork. Nothing about it made sense. At least not on the surface. Anakin had the highest recorded midi-chlorian count of any Jedi in history, had been training for years and matched the description of the Prophecy exactly- a boy born of the Force destined to bring balance. Shmi had told them there was no father, that Anakin had come into being out of nowhere. It all fit.

Yet he knew virtually nothing about Luke's background aside from the vague bits and pieces shared here and there. He claimed to have parents killed by Tusken Raiders on Tatooine as well as being found by a Force wielder named 'Ben' who'd never disclosed whether or not he'd been a Jedi. He spoke of adventures, space stations, and battles in grand terms but without much detail. There was no realistic way to know if he was telling the truth or not. And yet by the virtue of their bond, the connection between two persons of the Force, Obi-Wan felt he could trust Luke without question. Humble, courageous, fearless, and compassionate, it was no wonder he'd made a name for himself so quickly.

You trained him, you know the darkness, the fear, the hatred that resides within Skywalker….he is destined to destroy everything you care about and pledge his allegiance to my old master.

That particular statement, that declaration from Maul continued to haunt his thoughts. The idea of Anakin betraying the Jedi, joining the Dark Side, there was no way that could be true. While his former padawan certainly struggled at times to keep his emotions in check, fundamentally Anakin was the most moral person he'd ever met. He cared about people and would do anything for anyone facing an injustice.

Perhaps that's always been part of the problem

Anakin felt things deeply. The mantra of 'let go' didn't work on him. It never had. Obi-Wan tried to impart his teachings, the core Jedi philosophy as best he could, true to Qui-Gon's dying wish. But at best, Anakin could be considered a 'maverick' more along the lines of his old master. Much as he never wanted to openly admit it, the boy he'd trained for over a decade was Qui Gon's apprentice, not his. They were too far apart in personality to truly work as master and padawan. As brothers and fellow Jedi Knights, certainly. But not with one holding power over the other. Anakin Skywalker was everything he wasn't- willful, aggressive, a rule breaker, open, and at times rather tactless.

That he was willing to break the code to become involved with a woman also spoke to that penchant to buck rules. The red head knew full well Padme and Anakin were in love. Not that he didn't sympathize given his own situation with Satine but he and the Duchess always managed to separate their feelings from duty. Jedi simply couldn't risk that kind of attachment. That Darth Maul used such feelings against him on Mandalore was a prime example.

None of those traits made anyone inherently susceptible to the dark side. But given Maul's words Obi-Wan couldn't help but contrast the blond and brunette. True, they shared much in common. Luke was powerful, very powerful. They'd never officially recorded his midi-chlorian count but it had to be at least as high as Anakin's. The raw talent surpassed most on the Council, including himself. While not as refined in lightsaber technique, he connected with the Force far better than his former Padawan.

However, Luke also maintained a much greater control of his feelings. He was patient, prudent, and carried an air of responsibility in being a part of something greater than himself. Everywhere he went, every life he touched seemed to benefit from the same kind of passion and care Anakin also embodied. Yet, Luke's motivations seemed to primarily stem from hope whereas Anakin's often originated from fear, pain, and loss. One embraced his role as a benefactor for change, while the other suffered under the weight of a Prophecy he'd never wanted.

Obi-Wan shook his head. Every question led to more questions which contained few, if any answers. Maul stated the two were connected somehow. If Luke truly were the Chosen One, why had Anakin been discovered first? The former's age doubled that of the latter. Why did he suddenly show up out of nowhere? Why hadn't Qui Gon detected him? And furthermore, what motivation did Anakin have to betray his friends and the Jedi as a whole? To throw in his lot with the Sith went against everything he stood for. Padme, the one whom he loved most, would never stand for it.

There's a piece of this puzzle I'm missing. Something not accounted for

Or, Maul could have been lying. Sith were not known to deal in truth. Perhaps it was best to take their meeting on Mandalore with an enormous grain of salt. He'd already made the decision not to tell the Council of the second Prophecy. But could he keep such a secret from Luke and Anakin?

Taking a deep breath, Obi-Wan let go of the tension plaguing his mind. There would be time for that later. Right now, the primary focus needed to be on the person he cared about most.

Entering his room, he found the Duchess removing what little makeup still remained from the day's events. She'd also been given new clothes, including a pink, silky nightgown that fell gracefully all the way to the floor.

"Doesn't a gentleman knock before entering the room of a lady?" came a teasing, sultry voice.

"Doesn't a lady know a gentleman's right to enter his own quarters?" he countered.

"I could have been indecent."

"I hardly think that was your primary concern. That and I could sense it...if I wanted to."

By the Force this woman could make him say and do things he otherwise never would. Getting him to lose composure was an ability only Satine had mastered.

"Look, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I am grateful for the Jedi's hospitality...your hospitality."

"It's quite alright. I'm more than happy to give you my lodgings until we find something more accommodating. Senator Amidala has already offered one of her apartment rooms on Coruscant."

The Duchess unclasped her earrings and went back over to the bed, sighing in a morose, exhausted manner.

"She's very kind. She also seems quite happy. An honest woman."

"What do you mean?"

Obi-Wan could tell when Satine was trying to make a larger point. He'd known her long enough to discern that much.

"Obi...I've ruled Mandalore for a long time and many people have tried to take my life. None of that compares to the moment where that...that beast nearly choked me to death. I could see my life flashing in front of my eyes. And in that moment there was nothing that mattered more than you."

"Satine…"

"I've tried to hide my feelings or deny they exist altogether. Neither are viable anymore."

She got up from the bed and drew her body closer to Obi-Wan. Force, he loved everything about this woman: the wonderfully perfumed scent, loose strands of blonde hair framing her rosy cheeks and porcelain features, the soft touch of her hands slowly making their way up his chest…

"We can't," he said, lowering her hand. "I'm sorry."

"Obi, I used to think we were doing the right thing by distancing ourselves from the past. I convinced myself the virtue of our respective positions rendered our relationship impossible. But that is no longer true."

"Our positions haven't changed, same as our feelings," he told her sadly. "The Jedi Order would expel me if they found out about us. And your right to rule Mandalore additionally compromised."

Satine bit her lip, though she did not back away from him, their bodies perilously close.

"I care about my people just as you care about your Order. The two are not mutually exclusive. If Skywalker and Senator Amidala can make their love work, can we not also?"

Criminey, how many people know about that by now?

"Whatever situation we have is different."

"How so?" she asked stubbornly.

"Because we both acknowledge that we devote ourselves to a higher purpose than just our personal desires."

"You once told me that had I said the word you would have left the Jedi Order."

That was true. It still did to a certain degree. But he couldn't bear the temptation a second time.

"You never forced me into making that choice," he finally responded.

"I would never force you into doing anything, Obi-Wan," she replied back, sliding her hand back up his chest gazing deeply into his eyes. "All I want for us is to be honest. I almost lost you today. I never want to think about a scenario where that happens again."

"Satine, it's been a long day. You're tired and need some-"

He was cut off by a pair of lips smashing against his. Awkward but soft and warm. When the initial shock wore off from the sudden kiss he felt an overwhelming desire to melt into it, to explore in ways the code of the Jedi never allowed him to dream of. But the dream was present and he wanted nothing more to touch more of her soft, satiny body. That luscious, sweet smelling blonde hair…

A knock on the door cut short the romantic foray and the couple pulled themselves apart just before someone entered.

"Obi-Wan, the Council wishes me to inform you…"

Luke Ahch-To looked carefully at the flushed faces of the embarrassed duo in front of him. For a half second he said nothing before continuing his message.

"...that Senator Amidala has agreed to let the Duchess stay in her Coruscant quarters for the time being…..am I interrupting something?"

Satine went even redder, if such a thing were possible, willing herself not to look at Obi-Wan who gave an awkward cough.

"Erm..nothing. Just wishing the Duchess a good night. M'lady."

"Master Jedi."

The goodbye was so painfully awkward Luke had to physically restrain himself from laughing. A fact not lost on his first master.

"I'd appreciate it if you didn't breathe a word of that to anyone," the red head told him once they'd left the room and back out into the main hallway.

"Mention what?" Luke replied, failing to hide a smirk.

"You remind me far too much of Anakin at the moment. At least pretend you saw nothing."

"Yes, Master."

It fascinated Obi-Wan that someone so alike in comparison to his former padawan could also be entirely different in many key aspects. Anakin might have continued teasing him, even if subtle. Did Maul's words ring completely hollow? Or was there an element of truth to it.

"Luke, do you believe that Anakin is the Chosen One?"

The reaction from the non-Jedi was an incredible mix of confusion and surprise.

"Certainly. Why do you ask?"

So he does know about the original Prophecy

"There are those with...doubts about whether or not he will bring balance to the Force."

"Nonsense," Luke's dismissal was followed by an expression of pure faith. "I believe in Anakin Skywalker and that he will fulfill the Prophecy. Do you believe in him?"

"Anakin is one of a kind. He is my brother. He will never not have my confidence."

"Indeed. And we must do all we can to help him get there."

Silence temporarily interrupted the conversation before Luke went on an entirely different track.

"You should go back to her, you know."

Obi-Wan stopped in his tracks.

"What?"

"You're a great Jedi, Obi-Wan and an even greater man. Being with Satine doesn't change either of those things.

"Luke, think about what you're saying. I'd be kicked out. Attachment is forbidden among the Jedi Order; you must know this."

But the blond shook his head as if such rules mattered little.

"Not attachment: love. It is the greatest thing that exists in the universe. And whether the Jedi Council forbids it or not, it still happens. Tell me, does it make sense to pretend otherwise?"

For once the Jedi Master felt backed into a corner. He sighed heavily.

"There is a practical reason as well. The dark side grows and a Jedi with a family or spouse becomes an easy target for our enemies."

"But do they not make exceptions? Like for Master Mundi for example."

"That is cultural as opposed to passionate. His species has a disproportionate amount of males and females and therefore he must procreate to ensure there is another generation."

"Obi-Wan," Luke cut in softly. "The Jedi are right in many ways. Devoting themselves to peace and a higher purpose, to remain aware of one's emotions, and not let them cloud our judgement. But they are wrong in its application. Fear, hate, and anger must be acknowledged and overcome, not shamed. Love must be celebrated, not dismissed."

Scratching his beard nervously, the red head wished Luke would stop looking at him with those light, blue eyes. They could peer into one's soul and reminded him of Anakin when vindicated about something. Except the former did not have the same smugness.

"I cannot break the oath I took," he finally responded quietly.

"You are not the first Jedi to fall in love nor the last. Love and happiness are not in opposition to the code. It is the essence of the Living and Cosmic Force."

Moments like these made him feel like he'd already known this enigmatic force wielder for many years, as if he'd were an old friend. His suggestions were not condemnatory or harsh but supportive and filled with compassion. It sounded a lot like his old master in a way.

"The choice is yours, Obi-Wan. I would never presume to tell you what to do. But there's a young woman back there willing to risk everything for the person she cares about most. That is not a path to the dark side. If the Council were wise enough to acknowledge as such, the Jedi would truly be the force for good they claim to be."

That had sounded so eerily similar to Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan nearly dropped to the floor in shock. Words truly failed him at that moment. Only more questions entered his mind.

Who was Luke Ahch-To, truly?

"I bid you a good night, Master Kenobi," Luke said with a bow, leaving the now slack jawed Obi-Wan to ponder his next move.

For once, the Great Negotiator had no words.

The now overthrown Duchess had just about retired for the night when she heard an unexpected knock on her door. Who stood in the doorway came as a surprise, but a delightful one.

"Obi?"

"Satine…"

Right away she could tell what he wanted. The vulnerable, longing look in his eye was something she'd seen only once before.

"Listen I-"

He was cut off once more by the Duchess pulling him into the room, arms wrapped around his neck in a strong, passionate kiss. The lights soon went out.

Obi-Wan Kenobi didn't know if anyone could sense their emotions nor did he really care. As far as he was concerned, he remained loyal to the Republic, loyal to the Council, and loyal to Anakin. He still put others before himself.

But he never wanted to know another minute without Satine Kryze by his side.

The following day, a good portion of the Jedi Council alongside Anakin, Obi-Wan and Luke were summoned to the Chancellor's Office to devise a plan to invade Mandalore following the grim revelation that Maul was in control of the planet, the system, and by extension hundreds of others that wished to be neutral. It was not a scenario the Republic could afford to let pass at the height of a military conflict reaching its apex. A third party entering the war would ensure it continued indefinitely, a sentiment echoed by everyone at the meeting.

"Maul in control of this sector could potentially undermine our entire effort," Obi-Wan opined as he pointed to various spots on the map. "Neutral space is integral to moving vital ships, troops, and supplies to other parts of the galaxy."

"I agree," Mace Windu said with a stoic nod. "If Maul declares a side it changes the very shape of the war. Especially given the history between the Jedi and Mandalore. The ascendancy of Death Watch to power increases the probability they will not be friendly."

"Hmm...cautious we must be," Yoda advised wisely. "To jump into a war with Mandalore too quickly, ill advised such an action is."

"I share your sentiment, Master Yoda," Palpatine said, speaking in a careful and considerate tone as always. "But I remind everyone here that the Senate has already approved an emergency task force as part of the war effort. By harboring a wanted fugitive such as Maul, there is no choice but to act quickly."

He turned a robed hand towards Anakin and beamed a grandfatherly smile, one that sickened Luke to his bones.

"Master Skywalker, what is your opinion on this matter?"

Anakin seemed a bit too flattered at being asked in a room full of senior Jedi, much to their chagrin.

"Seems to be pretty straightforward to me. Maul is a loose end we can't leave hanging around. The 501st is at your command, sir."

The display of loyalty was exactly what Sidious wanted and that fact became increasingly apparent to Luke. Nevertheless, he stayed silent. Better to be an impartial observer, especially with a Sith Lord in the room. Given his actions as of late, any additional attention was unwise.

Unfortunately, he did not get that luxury.

"I thank you for your support Anakin. Commander Ahch-To, your thoughts?"

Luke had half a mind to tell the Emperor to shove it or some other clever retort used in younger days. Calming himself, knowing Sidious could sense any emotion he felt, the blond began thinking of a diplomatic reply when the holo image of Mas Amedda appeared out of nowhere.

"Supreme Chancellor. Prime Minister Almec of Mandalore wishes to speak to you at once."

To say nothing of the surprise on everyone's faces, Palpatine's fake appearance of shock could have fooled an audience of ten thousand.

"My, this is unexpected. Whatever does he want?"

"He would not say specifically until he reached you directly."

When no one objected (because in reality no one bothered or could) an affirming grant of that wish followed suit. Amedda disappeared and Almec took his place.

"Almec," Palpatine said simply but with a note of fake disapproval. "What is it that you want? Last I heard, you were imprisoned by Duchess Satine Kryze for corruption related offenses."

"Those allegations were dubious at best." Almec was a tall, fair haired, imposing man who weaved a web of golden thread ten klicks long with his tongue. "The man you seek...Darth Maul is it? He is gone. Turned and fled in a blink of an eye after the last rotation."

"But you are affiliated with Death Watch, an organization associated with the Separatists who recently supplanted the recognized ruler. What incentive do I have as Chancellor on behalf of my constituents to legitimize this rebellious act?"

Almec gave something of a confused look.

"They have not been in league with the Separatists for quite some time. Pre Viszla is dead. This so-called act of rebellion is completely justified in the eyes of Mandalorian law and violates no neutrality agreement previously reached with the Republic."

"Is that so?" Palpatine asked rhetorically, eyeing the Jedi in the room carefully. The crestfallen looks on their faces told the whole story.

"Yes, Chancellor," Obi-Wan admitted. "Death Watch has been an independent organization for some time. As far as we know, at least."

Luke knew the implication of that statement. The only reason the invasion had been approved in the first place was the presence of Maul and the request made by Bo-Katan Kryze. But without it, the coup could be dismissed as an internal matter of Mandalore thereby invalidating any Republic involvement.

But why?

"Your intelligence is correct, Master Jedi," Almec said.

"Are we to believe Maul has suddenly vanished without a trace?" Mace Windu asked skeptically.

"We invite any and all envoys to Sundari and all of our cities to see for themselves. Maul is no longer in charge."

"In that case, I believe we have diplomatic arrangements to discuss," the Chancellor surmised. "Master Jedi, if you could send me the latest information regarding Mandalore and the Separatists it would be much appreciated. I shall handle this personally."

No one raised any argument. Not even Mace Windu, who bowed respectfully though it was quite stiff. Almec disappeared from the time being.

"Are you quite certain we can rely on the word of Almec?" Obi-Wan asked, trying his best to hide all biases that could lead to the discovery of his feelings for Satine. "He was imprisoned for a reason and not someone I'd consider to be trustworthy."

"Not to worry, Master Kenobi. I will ensure all measures are taken to verify the claims of this new Prime Minister. Representative Binks is an ideal candidate. If he were to be accompanied by a high ranking Jedi, I'm sure that Maul's presence can be discovered quite easily. Is that a fair accommodation, Master Yoda?"

Yoda gave it a brief amount of thought, grumbling to himself before nodding in the affirmative.

"Agree, I do. No chances, can we take. War with Mandalore must be avoided if indeed, Maul has escaped."

"It is settled then. Please send me the reports at your earliest opportunity. Good day, gentleman."

The meeting was over but the war had only just begun. Luke had not spoken a single word and yet he thanked the stars that Leia had taught him some form of political intrigue, even if he despised such affairs; Sidious was flexing his own political muscle. Mandalore remained an integral system despite being neutral and he didn't know the true reason why the Sith Lord decided against attacking it but he did know this: Maul had not fled out of coincidence. He could guess what had likely happened.

He's a threat. A threat not just to the Jedi, but what Sidious has in mind for the future.

As he exited the office, two pairs of blue eyes caught each other ever so briefly, simultaneously challenging each other as though locked in a never ending battle of wits. Luke had made one move, Sidious another. The latter's message was clear: stay out of my way or else. But Skywalkers didn't back down no matter which timeline they found themselves in.

Yes, Sidious had made a move. Many were yet to be played in this high stakes of game of Dejarik.

Hmmm...lots of intrigue but little answers. But hey, at least Obi-Wan has a girlfriend now, right? XD

Next update will be soon!

~The Wasp