GA WARSHIP GIAL ACKBAR, CORELLIA ORBIT

Despite being seated out of view of the hologram of Denjax Teppler that was present atop the holotable within the war room aboard the Ackbar, Desha Lor could see every expression atop the man's face. His conversation with Admiral Bwua'tu had been going on for fifteen minutes, and for Desha those fifteen minutes had been the longest of her life. Or the second longest, after the fifteen minutes in the immediate aftermath of Dorvan's assassination.

It had been four days since Dorvan's death, and those days had been filled with calls with senate and military leadership on Coruscant, as well as the occasional short conversation with Corellian officials. Tensions had escalated quickly in the hours after the bombing, after a wave of CorSec operatives flooded the area while Alliance marines were still on site searching for survivors. While battle had been narrowly avoided, a standoff on the landing platform had occurred before it was diffused by the CorSec and Alliance commanders.

That had only been the first incident, however, as just a day later CorSec troops had blocked an Alliance forensic team from landing at the site, citing an official order from the CorSec general. This development had infuriated Bwua'tu, who at the time was running on just two hours of sleep and had been attempting to both further Alliance goals and keep the Corellians happy. A short call with General Phennir later, and the forensic team was allowed to conduct its research, under close supervision by CorSec.

After two days of quiet, in which only short standoffs had occurred between Alliance and Confederate ships in orbit, the decision was made to depart from Corellia's atmosphere, and to head back for Coruscant. The conversation occurring now was in part due to this departure, as Corellia had refused to allow for any Alliance investigatory teams to remain after the Alliance's departure. Bwua'tu was angered by this, and had immediately contacted Teppler to complain.
"I fail to see how our investigation would pose a threat to you and your government," Bwua'tu was saying, his tone inquisitive. "Unless you're worried we would find something to incriminate you, of course."

Teppler shook his head vehemently. "There is nothing for you to find that would incriminate me, as we had nothing to do with the bombing. But allowing your team to remain would make it easier for you to plant evidence and claim that it was me, and use that as a call for war."

Bwua'tu stood up, throwing his hands in the air with exasperation. "And yet by kicking us off your world you make it all the more likely that the senate will vote for conflict!" He took a breath, calming himself down. "Look, I don't want war. Nobody in my staff wants war. I imagine the same goes for you. We know how destructive it was the last time we fought, and no one wants to see that happen again. But if you don't allow our team to continue its investigation, I fear the chances of conflict will skyrocket."

Teppler grimaced. "Conflict," he said sharply, "will only occur if we allow it to. I promise to remain level-headed on this issue, so that we can work towards a peaceful resolution. But for now, your troops will have to leave."

"You can be as level-headed as you like, but I answer to the senate and the Chief of State. It is not my duty to make the decision to go to war, I simply advise. And trust me when I say that the senate will not be happy with your decision."

"Then I hope that cool heads prevail, Admiral. Tell your interim Chief of State that I await her call." After a moment, in which Teppler's expression softened, he added, "and I'm sorry about Wynn." Then the hologram disappeared.

Desha was still gazing at the spot at which the hologram had been when Bwua'tu began to speak. "It will be difficult to keep the senate from calling for war," he said, rubbing the fur below his mouth.

"I know," Desha said, her voice echoey. "I've already received word that Senator Kendall is preparing to make a statement before the senate, and I assume that it'll be fiery. No doubt he is planning to call for action, though I doubt he'll directly call for war."

"No?"

She shook her head, "Kendall's not an idiot. He knows that direct conflict with the Confederation won't be popular with the public, so he'll try and hide his intentions beneath a veil. What that veil will be I can't say."

"Whatever he does, it'll be done with the intention to undermine you."

She nodded, standing up. "Which is precisely why we need to return to Coruscant immediately. The senate will be asking for my presence, and I'll need to make a speech to the public on my intentions. They'll be wanting someone strong to replace Dorvan after all, so I must ensure that I am."

"I'll have the fleet prepare for hyperspace, then. Not like there's a reason for us to stick around here," Bwua'tu replied.

"Good. I'll be in my quarters if you should need me," said Desha as she left the room. As she strode down the corridor towards her quarters, Desha attempted to grasp the responsibility that had been left with her. She was now the interim-Chief of State of the Alliance, and was taking up the position in the wake of the assassination of the popular Wynn Dorvan. It would be her job to both win the support of the people by living up to Dorvan's accomplishments, while also ensuring that the galaxy did not fall into another war. If she could do those two things, she'd be assured an easy victory over Kendall in the special election that would come soon enough. If she did not, she would go down in history as a weak and ineffective leader, who left the galaxy in the hands of an Imperial sympathizer, and possibly in a state of war.

Those were not easy thoughts to rest with, but it was what Desha Lor had been thrown into. As she lay down in her bed to attempt and sleep, letting the low hum of the engines soothe her, these were the thoughts that drifted through her mind. And she knew they would not go away anytime soon. They'd probably get worse.

JEDI TEMPLE, OSSUS

Jaina's departure from Hapes and subsequent return to the Jedi Temple had happened quickly. Soon after receiving the transmission calling her back for the Council meeting, she had gone to the Fountain Palace to retrieve Allana. While her apprentice had been saddened that she had to leave her mother, she had gone willingly with Tenel Ka's blessing. They had then returned to their StealthXs and quietly departed the planet.

The call to return to Ossus had not come as a surprise to Jaina. Like every other citizen of the galaxy, she had watched the events that transpired on Corellia live on the HoloNet, and knew that the Jedi Council would be forced into action. She was saddened to leave Zekk and Tenel Ka behind, especially since their investigation was only just beginning to uncover the information they had been seeking from the beginning. But she was a Jedi Master, which made her subservient to the Jedi Code. It was her duty to answer the call to return to the Ossus, even if she would have personally preferred not to. The Council, after all, valued her opinion. And she would not have wanted any decisions to be made without her input.

After leaving Allana in the archives to continue her studies, Jaina had hastily made her way to the Council chambers, where she found the rest of the council already waiting. The room was laid out in the same manner as the chamber on Coruscant had been; with the twelve chairs placed in a circle around a central dais. Most of the council members were already seated in their chairs, and the few that were not sat down when they noticed Jaina.

Jaina's chair was placed on the right side of the chamber, between the seats of Masters Kyp Durron and Octa Ramis. To Durron's right was Corran Horn, followed by Kyle Katarn and Saba Sebatyne. Next to Saba was Grand Master Skywalker, who sat facing the door and at the head of the circle. To his right were Masters Cilghal, Barratk'l, Kam and Tionne Solusar, and finally Leia Organa Solo. Over the past several years the full council had rarely convened, given a lack of events deemed worthy of requiring the full council's judgment. Nevertheless, all of the masters made sure to remain in contact with each other, even when off-world.

With all of the masters seated, Luke began his greeting. "I first must thank all of you for coming on such short notice. I know that it may have been difficult for a few of you given where you had been prior to receiving the call," he said, glancing at Jaina and Barratk'l. "Nevertheless, the situation the galaxy now finds itself in gave me little choice. The wisdom of the full council is needed to determine how the Jedi will respond to the crisis that has unfolded on Corellia.

"But first, I would like to ask Master Solo Fel to deliver her findings from Hapes, as I suspect they may influence our thoughts regarding the crisis."

Jaina was a bit surprised hearing Luke use both of her last names, but quickly knew the reason. Both her or her mother could respond to being called 'Master Solo'. "Of course, Grand Master," she said, bowing her head slightly. "While our investigation was incomplete at the time of my departure, Zekk and I were able to determine multiple possible perpetrators of the recent attacks against the Hapan government. The first is the simple answer; dissatisfied civilians who, with the probable help of treasonous royal families, have taken to terrorism to voice their displeasure. However, this answer is both inconclusive and uninteresting, as there have always been royals and civilians looking to undermine Tenel Ka's rule.

"That's why the second answer is the one Zekk, myself, and others with the Hapan Security Force favor. It is possible, if not probable, that these attacks have been coordinated by, or supported by, Sith rogues. Likely ones hailing from the Lost Tribe."

"How could this be possible?" asked Kyle Katarn. "The Lost Tribe has been under constant surveillance on Sorvleen for half a decade."

Kyp Durron quickly answered. "Considering the fact that the Lost Tribe numbered in the thousands prior to the destruction of their capitol by Abeloth, it is reasonable to assume that there are some that still run free within the galaxy, unaffected by the confinement of their clan to Sorvleen."

"But what would their motive be to strike at Hapes?" Kam Solusar asked. "Forgive me for thinking that this seems like a stretch."

"That's not an unreasonable thought, Master Solusar," said Jaina. "In fact, Zekk and I have questioned this ourselves. Assuming they are the perpetrators, their motive is certainly in question."

Octa Ramis furrowed her brow. "Outside of simply wanting to hurt the Jedi, it's hard to find another reason as to why the Lost Tribe would be interested in Hapes."

"Maybe they aren't just interested in Hapes," Corran Horn posed. "What if it's all connected."

"Elaborate, Master Horn," Leia pressed.

"Hapes is, while not on the level of the Alliance, Confederation, or the Imperial Remnant, a legitimate and powerful galactic government. They hold influence over more than just the Hapes Cluster, and have played a role in the past three galactic wars. As previously stated by Master Ramis, they also hold sway with the Jedi, given their government being led by a former Knight. Therefore, it is not unreasonable to assume that the perpetrators of these attacks, Sith or not, may have also been the ones responsible for the bombing on Corellia."

"But this brings us back to the question of why Lost Tribe rogues would do this. Why would they be interested in sparking another galactic war?" asked Cilghal.

"They're Sith. Causing chaos is their forte," said Kyp.

"All of us know that'z not a convincing answer," Saba hissed.

"It may not be, but for now it's all we have."

Luke, who to this point had not interjected his opinion into the

conversation, then decided to join in. "I believe that Master Horn's reasoning is on the right track, and is not far off from what I personally suspect." He took a deep breath, steadying himself. "I have discussed the possibility that another sect of Sith exists in the galaxy with this Council before. Ever since the appearance of the Dark Man during my battle with Abeloth Beyond Shadows, I've known that more must exist somewhere. It is therefore possible these attacks may have been orchestrated by them, rather than the Lost Tribe. That would make the motive much easier to understand, given that another, hidden sect of Sith, would have a separate philosophy and motivations than the Lost Tribe.

"I know this sounds far-fetched, and I will grant that it is, but I fear that it may be correct. Recent meditations have shown me that the Dark Side is once again on the rise, even as the galaxy has moved steadily forward towards peace." He gestured at the council with his arms, "I know that all of you have felt it." Many council members nodded. Luke continued, "But right now, it is imperative that we decide on what course of action the Jedi Order will take in regards to the bombing, and whether or not we will get directly involved in any conflict that may breakout between the Alliance and the Confederation."

After a moment of silence, Kyle Katarn said, "The question of whether or not we will involve ourselves in conflict goes back to the question of whether the Sith are involved. If they are, then it is our duty to fight them. If not, the decision becomes difficult."

"The Jedi are the guardians of peace within the galaxy," said Kyp. "It is our duty to protect the innocent from harm, therefore making it imperative that we involve ourselves in any conflict, regardless of Sith involvement."

Tionne eyed him carefully. "You forget that the Jedi are no longer a part of any galactic government. Joining a conflict we weren't initially involved in would be seen as unnecessary meddling to the citizens of the galaxy."

"Remember, the Alliance wanted us gone because of the conflict we supposedly brought. Jedi involvement would only validate their stance," Cilghal added.

"While both of those points are valid, it doesn't change the fact that we need to further investigate what is actually going on here," said Corran.

Leia nodded. "To add to Master Horn's suggestion, I propose that we dispatch delegations to speak with both the Alliance and Confederate Chief of State's, in order to try and convince them to de-escalate the situation."

Jaina eyed her mother. "How can you be sure they will allow us to meet with them?"

Leia showed a small smile. "Han and I have a good relationship with Chief Teppler, so I have no doubt that he would agree to speak with us. I'll personally volunteer to go to Corellia to speak with him."

"What about the Alliance?" asked Saba. "With Dorvan gone, we have lost our main connection to Alliance politicz. How do we know the interim Chief of State will agree to our meeting?"

"Assuming they follow the typical Alliance hierarchy, Dorvan's top assistant will be next in line for the position. So I would expect that Desha Lor will be appointed to the position until an election is held," Kyle said.
"Desha Lor will agree to a meeting. She's always followed Dorvan closely, and I'd imagine she will do similar things as him," Luke said. "I'd like for Masters Sebatyne, Katarn, and Solo Fel to head to Coruscant to meet with her." He looked at Jaina, "Bring your padawan, as well."

She nodded along with the others.

"And what of our investigations into the bombing?" asked Octa.

"I'll volunteer to lead it," Corran stated. "I have contacts on Corellia that will be of great help to us. And," he looked at Kyp, "I'd like Master Durron to assist me."

Kyp looked at him with surprise. Jaina too was surprised. While the two masters held respect for one another, they'd always sat on opposite sides of most issues, leading to subtle animosity between them. While the flames had cooled in the decades since the Yuuzhan Vong War, they had not been completely put out.

"Of course, Master Horn," Kyp accepted.

"Thank you." Corran looked at Luke, "I'd like permission to take multiple knights to Corellia with us, as well."

Luke wore a neutral expression. "I assume you have the Knights in mind?"

"I do, Master."

Luke nodded. "Do whatever you must, Master Horn."

"And what about you, Grand Master?" Barratk'l asked. "I sense that your thoughts are clouded."

Luke looked at the Yuzzem Master, before turning his gaze back to the full council. "Master Barratk'l is right," he said, sighing. "My mind is clouded, and it's hard for me to determine why. Perhaps it's the dark side, perhaps it's something else." He gazed out one of the windows that surrounded the room. "You all know that my connection to the force was… damaged- in the aftermath of my battle with Abeloth," he shook his head, "and it's been difficult for me to completely reestablish that connection."

"Can we do anything to help?" asked Kyle.

Luke shook his head. "No, this is a battle I must win on my own. In the meantime, I will be leaving the temple for Sorvleen. Someone has to determine if the Lost Tribe was involved in the recent attacks, and I think I am in the best position to do so." He sighed, his gaze falling back to the council, "I also can't ignore the visions my son has been having of Vestara Khai, as cryptic as they may be. I'll be taking him with me aboard the Jade Shadow."

The council members nodded, not having any protests against Luke's mission.

After a moment of uneasy silence, Luke began, "Things are progressing faster than we anticipated, and we must remain vigilant. If the Sith truly were involved, we could be looking at the beginning of another force war. Especially if these Sith are members of a different sect, rather than the Lost Tribe."

"And the rise of the neo-Imperials in the Alliance cannot be overlooked," Leia added. "While that may have nothing to do with the Sith, it still may play a role in how they play their cards against us. Imperial politics are a breeding ground for the dark side."

"We'll hopefully learn more about the neo-Imperialz while we're on Coruscant," said Saba. "But I agree; any Imperial movement, especially one occurring now, will be used to the dark sidez benefit."

The discussion continued for another half hour, with the council going over matters unrelated to galactic politics. Jaina remained quiet throughout, simply listening to what others had to say. Her mind had gone elsewhere.

It had been a month since she had last seen her husband, and she doubted that she would see him anytime soon. With him on Bastion, and herself being given the mission to Coruscant, the time between their last reunion would only increase further. But that had been the story of their marriage. With Jaina a Jedi Master, and Jag being the closest advisor to the leader of the Imperial Remnant, the time they got together had been fleeting. She hoped to have time to have a holo call with him before she departed for Coruscant, but considering how fast things were escalating, she doubted that would happen.

After several more minutes of conversation, during which the council discussed the prospect of elevating more apprentices to the status of Knight in light of the potential conflict, Luke closed the meeting out.

"All of us have our separate missions," he said. "Whether that be meeting with galactic leaders," he looked at Leia, Jaina, Kyle, and Saba, "keeping things running here at the temple," he shifted to Tionne, Kam, Barratk'l, Cilghal, and Octa, "or investigating the escalating conflict," he finished with his gaze on Kyp and Corran. "By the next time we convene, the path forward will be clear, and we will know what our place will be in the future. Let us hope that place remains as peacekeepers, and we are not forced back into war." His expression lightened, and he straightened in his chair.

"May the force be with the council, the Jedi, and most importantly- the galaxy."