The verdant expanse of the Jedi Temple's gardens never ceased to confound A'Sharad Hett. The sheer abundance of water, the lushness of the flora, was so starkly contrasted with the austere deserts of his homeworld that it felt almost alien. Yet, it was this very otherness that drew him into hours of deep contemplation, immersing himself in the eddies and currents of the Force that seemed to saturate this place. The incessant murmur of the Thousand Fountains, cascading and colliding in a symphony of white noise, coaxed him into a state of near-total meditation, where thoughts and surroundings blurred into a singular focus.
Even so, he remained aware enough to sense the approach of his master—a presence in the Force as familiar to him as the twin suns of Tatooine.
"Caught napping again, are we?" came the light, teasing voice, polished with the crisp intonation of Coruscant's elite.
"Meditating," A'Sharad corrected, his lips twitching ever so slightly in what could almost be considered a smile. Once, early in his training, he had indeed succumbed to sleep during meditation. His master, of course, had never let him forget it, wielding the memory with a mix of fondness and playful reproach.
The older Jedi's smile deepened, "We've a mission, my young Padawan. The briefing is about to begin."
The statement snapped A'Sharad from his reverie, propelling him to his feet with a start. He began striding toward the Council Chambers with determined haste, his master's soft laughter following in his wake, the older man's steps unhurried as he kept pace.
"You could have commed me," A'Sharad muttered, half-accusatory.
"I did," his master replied, with the kind of patience only experience could afford. "Several times, in fact."
A'Sharad cursed under his breath, eliciting another bark of laughter from his master. Perhaps he had been closer to napping than meditating after all.
The two Jedi reached the Turbolift, its doors sliding open with a hiss, welcoming them into its polished interior.
"Any idea what the mission entails?" A'Sharad inquired, trying to mask his curiosity beneath a veneer of calm.
His master offered a shrug—an uncharacteristic gesture for a Jedi Knight, yet one that seemed natural to the man. A faint smile tugged at the corners of A'Sharad's mouth at the sight.
As the Turbolift began its descent, his master's gaze drifted outwards, toward the endless procession of aircars zipping past the glittering Coruscanti skyline. "The Council will provide the details," he said at length. "But you recall the recent news concerning Naboo and the Trade Federation, yes?"
A'Sharad nodded. His master had always held a peculiar interest in the Mid Rim world—though his reasoning had been attributed to Naboo's artistic culture, a claim easily refuted by anyone who had ever seen the stark, utilitarian nature of his master's quarters.
"Well," his master continued, "things seem to have escalated somewhat."
"Somewhat?" A'Sharad arched an eyebrow, a silent challenge to the understatement.
The older Jedi chuckled—a sound that always carried warmth, despite the often-sharp edge of his humor. "Yes, somewhat," he repeated, the word hanging in the air as the Turbolift hummed its way downward. "The situation on Naboo has become... complicated."
A'Sharad crossed his arms, his thoughts sharpening with focus. The vibrations of the Turbolift beneath his feet seemed to echo the subtle ripples in the Force, disturbances that could easily become something far more dangerous with the right catalyst. "Complicated how?"
His master turned to face him, the usual glint of lightheartedness in his eyes replaced by something more somber. "The Trade Federation has initiated a blockade—one that cuts off all trade routes to the planet. It's a bold maneuver, one that suggests desperation. Or perhaps something more insidious. I sense that this is more than a simple trade dispute."
A'Sharad's brow furrowed, his mind flicking through the briefings his master had once assigned him in the Archives. The Trade Federation, with its formidable droid armies, had long been a powerful player in the galaxy, capable of dealing with the lawlessness of the Outer Rim. Yet, overt aggression was not in their typical playbook. "And the Jedi have been called in to mediate?"
"They have," his master confirmed, though his tone carried an undercurrent of warning. "But be prepared for more than just mediation. There is a disturbance in the Force—something dark and unfamiliar. The Council does not sense it, which is why I specifically requested this assignment."
A'Sharad nodded, noting the tension in his master's voice. The older Jedi had never been one to easily align himself with the Council's more conservative interpretations of the Force, though he was always wise enough to keep his dissent mostly private. Yet, A'Sharad could feel the familiar blend of anticipation and trepidation welling within him. "So, we're to investigate covertly while mediating officially?"
"Exactly. I suspect there may be forces at work behind this blockade that we haven't encountered before. It's our job to assess the situation and, if necessary, act."
The Turbolift decelerated, coming to a smooth halt. The doors parted with a whisper, revealing the grand corridor that led to the Council Chambers. The walls, adorned with intricate carvings that depicted key moments in Jedi history—ancient battles, solemn councils, and scenes of peace—seemed to resonate with the gravitas of the task ahead. No matter how many times A'Sharad walked this path, the weight of what lay beyond always made the journey feel new, charged with significance.
As they approached the formidable double doors of the Council Chambers, they were met by the solemn gaze of the Jedi Masters seated within. The circle of venerable figures exuded authority and wisdom, with Master Yoda at its center—his diminutive stature belying the vastness of his presence in the Force. To his left sat Master Windu, the embodiment of stern discipline, while Master Mundi and Master Tyvokka completed the assembly, their expressions as inscrutable as the deep currents of the Force.
A'Sharad and his master bowed low, their deference met with acknowledging nods from the Council.
"Knight Kenobi," Master Windu began, his voice resonating with the gravity of the situation, "and Padawan Hett. The mission we have for you is of great importance."
Kenobi stepped forward, his voice steady. "We understand it pertains to the crisis on Naboo, Masters."
Yoda's large eyes closed momentarily, as if delving into the depths of the Force. "Grave, the situation has become. A simple trade dispute, this is not."
Master Windu's gaze hardened. "The Trade Federation's blockade is both illegal and highly aggressive. The Senate is, as always, slow to act, but Chancellor Valorum has sought Jedi intervention. Your task is to negotiate an end to this blockade."
A'Sharad's thoughts raced, intertwining his master's earlier concerns with the new information. "The Trade Federation's leadership has never been bold enough for such overt acts of aggression. Could there be another hand at play?"
The Council exchanged glances, their expressions darkening with disapproval. Master Tyvokka's growl reverberated through the chamber, punctuated by the beeps of the astromech droid at his side, translating his words. "That is precisely what you must uncover, Padawan. Speculation, however, is premature."
A'Sharad and Kenobi bowed, acknowledging the reprimand, though the young Padawan couldn't help but exchange a glance with his master. The subtle nod from Kenobi confirmed that he shared his apprentice's apprehensions.
Master Yoda leaned forward; his expression severe. "Careful, you must be. Dangerous, this mission is. But necessary, it has become."
Master Kenobi straightened; his voice resolute. "We will depart immediately, Masters."
"May the Force be with you," Master Windu intoned, signaling their dismissal.
As they exited the chamber, A'Sharad's mind churned with the possibilities, the shadows of doubt deepening with each step. Naboo was no ordinary assignment he could feel it; the undercurrent of darkness his master had sensed could be more significant than they imagined. He could feel the Force swirling around him, not just a guide but a warning, urging him to prepare for the unknown.
"Master," A'Sharad began as they navigated the winding corridors toward the hangar, "do you think this could be connected to the situation on Malastare?"
Kenobi's expression shifted, a flicker of curiosity breaking through his usual composed demeanor. "Malastare?"
A'Sharad hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "Yes, their interests were damaged by Naboo's plasma reserves, weren't they?"
For a moment, Kenobi was silent, his gaze thoughtful, as though reevaluating the entire situation. "It's possible, I suppose. Your instincts serve you well, A'Sharad. Keep them sharp, and above all, trust in the Force."
Just as Kenobi finished speaking, they rounded a corner and found themselves face to face with another Jedi—one who commanded immediate respect. Qui-Gon Jinn, his tall frame draped in the brown robes of the Order, approached with his usual calm demeanor, his expression serious yet tinged with curiosity.
"Master Jinn," Kenobi greeted him, his voice as steady as ever, though A'Sharad sensed a slight shift in his master's presence. It was as though an invisible current passed between the two, something more complex than mere cordiality.
"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon replied, his tone measured. His gaze shifted briefly to A'Sharad, acknowledging the Padawan with a nod. "Padawan Hett."
"Master Jinn," A'Sharad responded with a respectful bow, though he couldn't help but notice the subtle undercurrent of tension that seemed to ripple through the Force around them.
Qui-Gon turned his attention back to Kenobi, his expression growing more focused. "I've just come from the Senate. It was my understanding that Chancellor Valorum requested me specifically for the Naboo mission."
Kenobi's eyes narrowed slightly, though his voice remained even. "The Council has reassigned the mission, Qui-Gon. They believe my experience on Cato Neimodia makes me well-suited to handle the negotiations."
Qui-Gon's expression didn't shift, though A'Sharad could sense a quiet intensity in his demeanor. "I see. Valorum requested me because he understands the complexities involved. This blockade—there is more to it than a mere trade dispute, and I have insights that could be crucial."
Kenobi met Qui-Gon's gaze steadily. "The Council's decision stands. We don't need a repeat of Eriadu"
A tense silence settled between them, and A'Sharad had to stop himself from wincing. Master Jinn's blunder on Eriadu was somewhat of a legend in the Temple as he allowed a pirate to get away with billions worth of the Trade Federation's Aurodium ingots.
After a moment, Qui-Gon's expression hardened, his gaze holding a quiet understanding. "Very well, Obi-Wan. Just ensure you remain open to all possibilities. The Force often reveals its truths in ways we do not immediately understand."
Kenobi gave a slight nod, his tone outwardly respectful. "We will, Qui-Gon. May the Force be with you."
"And with you," Qui-Gon replied, his eyes lingering on Kenobi for a fraction of a second longer before he turned to A'Sharad. "You as well, Padawan Hett. Trust in the Force, and it will guide you."
"Thank you, Master Jinn," A'Sharad said, inclining his head, though his thoughts were still processing the quiet exchange between the two Jedi.
As Qui-Gon continued down the corridor, his robes swishing softly against the floor, A'Sharad glanced at his master, hoping for some explanation for his rudeness. But Kenobi's expression was unreadable, his thoughts seemingly turned inward, focused on the mission ahead.
The two resumed their walk to the hangar, the brief encounter with Qui-Gon now behind them. A'Sharad couldn't help but feel a slight unease, not from anything overtly stated, but from the subtle nuances in the Force, the delicate interplay of thoughts and feelings between his master and Qui-Gon that he could sense but not fully comprehend.
The hangar loomed ahead, their starship a sleek presence waiting to carry them to Naboo. As they boarded the vessel, the memory of his Grandmaster's words lingered in A'Sharad's mind, though he pushed it aside, focusing instead on the task at hand. Whatever had passed between the two Jedi was theirs to contend with; his own focus needed to be on the mission.
As they settled into the cockpit and the ship lifted off, breaking free of Coruscant's atmosphere, A'Sharad felt the familiar pull of the Force, guiding him toward the unknown. The conversation with Qui-Gon, while brief, had added another layer to the complexity of the situation, and A'Sharad couldn't shake the feeling that this mission would test them in ways they had yet to foresee.
"Remember, Padawan," Kenobi said quietly as the ship prepared to jump to hyperspace, "the Force will be your guide. Trust in it, and in yourself."
A'Sharad nodded, his resolve hardening despite the lingering questions in his mind. Whatever awaited them on Naboo, they would face it together, guided by the Force. As the stars stretched into the swirling tunnel of hyperspace, A'Sharad closed his eyes and centered himself, preparing for the challenges ahead.
The jump to hyperspace enveloped the cockpit in the familiar blue tunnel of light, the ship's systems humming with a steady, reassuring rhythm. A'Sharad Hett settled into his seat, the initial rush of the journey giving way to a quieter contemplation. The Force thrummed around him, a vast ocean of potential that both comforted and challenged him. It was in these moments of relative calm that the enormity of the galaxy—and the mission they were embarking on—truly settled in.
Obi-Wan Kenobi sat beside him, his eyes closed in meditation, the lines of his face relaxed, but A'Sharad could sense the currents of thought beneath the surface. His master had always been a man of profound focus, yet there was a subtle tension that lingered after their encounter with Qui-Gon Jinn. A'Sharad's curiosity gnawed at him, but he knew better than to pry. The relationship between his master and Qui-Gon was complex, layered with history and unspoken understanding that he had not been privy to.
Instead, A'Sharad turned his thoughts to the mission. The situation on Naboo was unlike anything he had faced before. The blockade by the Trade Federation seemed, on the surface, a mere political maneuver—albeit an aggressive one. Yet, both his master and Qui-Gon had hinted at something more sinister, a darkness lurking beneath the surface that the Council had not fully acknowledged. A'Sharad felt it too, a disturbance in the Force that was as elusive as it was unsettling.
The silence in the cockpit stretched on, only the soft hum of the ship's engines breaking the stillness. A'Sharad let his mind drift, reaching out with the Force, attempting to grasp the threads of this disturbance. He sensed shadows, vague and shifting, as if the Force itself was reluctant to reveal the full extent of what lay ahead. It was like staring into a fog, knowing there was something on the other side, but unable to see it clearly.
His concentration was broken by Obi-Wan's voice, calm and measured. "You're troubled, A'Sharad."
A'Sharad opened his eyes, meeting his master's gaze. "I sense... something, Master. The Force feels—unsettled."
Obi-Wan nodded, his expression thoughtful. "As do I. The situation on Naboo is more complicated than the Council fully realizes, I suspect. The Trade Federation's actions are bold, too bold for an organization that has thrived on careful manipulation and under-the-table deals. It reeks of desperation—or the influence of a darker power."
"A darker power?" A'Sharad asked, his voice hushed as he uttered the name.
Obi-Wan's eyes narrowed slightly, as if weighing the risks of talking, then he finally relented, "I sense the hand of the Sith in this."
A'Sharad's eyes widened, "The Sith?!"
"It's not something I would confront then council with, they think I'm crazy enough as it is," Kenobi stated and A'Sharad would have laughed at the understatement had it not been for the grim atmosphere. His master had a reputation for leaving the Temple unannounced only to have returned from weeks of consorting with heretics. It was during one such self-appointed mission that they had met on Tatooine.
"At any rate, Padawan, it's not a possibility you should dismiss out of hand. We must be cautious, A'Sharad. The Sith are masters of deception, and if they are involved, we must be prepared for anything. Our first priority is to understand the true nature of this blockade and who might be manipulating events from the shadows."
A'Sharad nodded, absorbing his master's words. The mission was beginning to take on a new dimension, one that was fraught with danger and uncertainty. He felt the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders, but also a sense of purpose. This was why he had trained, why he had committed himself to the Jedi path—to make his father proud by confronting the darkness wherever it lurked, and to uphold the peace and justice of the galaxy.
The ship's console beeped, signaling their approach to the Naboo system. Obi-Wan straightened, his expression sharpening with focus. "Prepare for reversion to realspace. We'll need to be on alert as soon as we arrive."
A'Sharad quickly adjusted the ship's controls, guiding it through the final stages of the hyperspace journey. The swirling tunnel of light around them began to shift, the blue streaks coalescing into points of starlight as the ship dropped out of hyperspace. Before them, the planet Naboo appeared, its lush green surface a stark contrast to the cold, metallic presence of the Trade Federation's blockade.
But something was different. A'Sharad's senses immediately picked up on the change. The once-organized blockade now seemed to pulse with frantic energy. Trade Federation battleships moved in a more aggressive formation, and the surface of Naboo was marred by ominous plumes of smoke rising from multiple points on the planet.
"This isn't right," Obi-Wan muttered, his voice tinged with disbelief. "The invasion—it's already begun."
A'Sharad's eyes widened as he scanned the surface below. The peaceful world they had expected to see was now under siege, its serene landscapes scarred by the chaos of battle. The Trade Federation wasn't just enforcing a blockade—they were launching a full-scale invasion.
"We have to get down there," A'Sharad said urgently, his hands moving swiftly over the controls. "The Queen—she could be in danger."
Obi-Wan nodded, his expression grim. "Set a course for Theed, the capital. We need to reach Queen Amidala and her advisors before it's too late."
A'Sharad guided the ship into a descent toward Naboo, the atmosphere flashing past them as they approached the surface. The once-picturesque landscapes of Naboo were now overrun with Trade Federation tanks and droid battalions, their movements precise and relentless. The sight of the invasion, the sheer scale of it, was a sobering reminder of the power the Trade Federation wielded—and the darkness that might be behind it.
As they approached Theed, the true extent of the devastation became clear. The city's elegant spires, once a symbol of Naboo's artistic culture, were now under siege. Droid forces patrolled the streets, and smoke billowed from damaged buildings. The tranquil waterways were stained with the residue of battle, and the people of Theed had been rounded up, their fear and despair palpable even from the air.
"Master, we're coming in too hot," A'Sharad warned as blaster fire erupted from the ground, Trade Federation forces targeting their ship.
"Evasive maneuvers!" Obi-Wan ordered, his voice calm but commanding.
A'Sharad yanked the controls, the ship veering sharply to avoid the incoming fire. The ship shuddered as it took a glancing hit, but A'Sharad managed to keep it under control, guiding it toward a relatively clear area just outside the city's main plaza.
"We're going to have to make a hard landing," A'Sharad said through gritted teeth, his hands working furiously to stabilize the ship.
"Do what you must, A'Sharad," Obi-Wan replied, his focus already shifting to what lay ahead.
With a final jolt, the ship touched down roughly, skidding across the ground before coming to a halt. A'Sharad quickly shut down the engines, unbuckling his harness as Obi-Wan did the same.
"Are you alright?" Obi-Wan asked, already moving toward the exit ramp.
"I'm fine, Master," A'Sharad replied, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through him. "Let's move."
The ramp lowered with a hiss, and the two Jedi descended into the chaos of Theed. The sound of blaster fire and the mechanical march of droids filled the air, a stark contrast to the peaceful city they had expected to find. Smoke hung thick in the sky, and the streets were littered with debris and the remnants of battle.
"This way," Obi-Wan directed, his lightsaber already in hand as they moved quickly through the narrow streets. "We need to reach the Royal Palace."
They moved swiftly and silently, using the Force to sense and avoid the droid patrols that roamed the city. The sight of civilians being rounded up and marched toward detention camps fueled their urgency, and A'Sharad could feel the weight of the mission pressing down on him. They had to reach the Queen before the Trade Federation could tighten its grip further.
As they approached the grand steps of the Royal Palace, they encountered their first real obstacle—a squadron of battle droids guarding the entrance. The droids immediately raised their blasters, but A'Sharad and Obi-Wan were faster. In an instant, their lightsabers ignited, the blue and green blades cutting through the droids with precise, practiced movements.
The battle was brief but intense, the droids' numbers overwhelming but their tactics predictable. A'Sharad fought with determination, his blade a blur as he deflected blaster bolts and cut down the droids. Obi-Wan moved with equal grace and efficiency, his focus unshakable as he cleared the path to the Palace.
Once the last droid fell, A'Sharad deactivated his lightsaber, breathing heavily as he surveyed the scene. The Palace loomed before them; its once-majestic façade now scarred by blaster fire.
"They won't be able to hold out much longer," Obi-Wan said, his voice tense. "We need to find the Queen and get her to safety."
A'Sharad nodded, his resolve hardening. "Let's go."
They rushed up the steps and into the Palace, the sounds of battle still echoing in the distance. The interior of the Palace was eerily quiet, the usual bustle of court life replaced by an oppressive silence. A'Sharad could feel the tension in the air, the fear and uncertainty that gripped the hearts of those who remained inside.
They moved through the corridors with purpose, their senses alert for any sign of the Queen. As they neared the throne room, the sound of voices reached their ears—urgent, fearful voices.
Obi-Wan held up a hand, signaling A'Sharad to pause. They edged closer to the entrance, peering around the corner to assess the situation.
Inside, Queen Amidala stood surrounded by her advisors and a contingent of Naboo guards. Her expression was resolute, but there was no mistaking the fear in her eyes. Before her, a group of Neimoidian officers, flanked by more battle droids, were issuing demands.
"Your Highness," one of the Neimoidians sneered, "surrender now, and your people will be spared unnecessary suffering. Resistance is futile."
Amidala's voice was steady, but the strain was evident. "Naboo will not submit to the tyranny of the Trade Federation. I will not allow my people to be enslaved."
The Neimoidian's expression darkened. "You leave us no choice, then."
Obi-Wan's eyes met A'Sharad's, and the unspoken command was clear. They had to act—now.
With a surge of the Force, Obi-Wan and A'Sharad burst into the throne room, their lightsabers igniting as they charged the droids. The room erupted into chaos as the battle began. Blaster fire filled the air, but the Jedi moved with precision and speed, deflecting bolts and cutting down droids before they could react.
"Get down!" Obi-Wan shouted to the Queen and her advisors, who quickly took cover as the battle raged around them.
A'Sharad focused on the droids, his movements fluid as he cleared the path to the Queen. The Neimoidians, caught off guard by the sudden assault, scrambled to retreat, barking orders at the remaining droids to cover their escape.
Within moments, the droids were dispatched, and the throne room fell silent once more. A'Sharad and Obi-Wan deactivated their lightsabers, turning to the Queen.
"Your Highness," Obi-Wan said, bowing slightly. "We are Jedi sent by the Republic to assist you. We must get you to safety immediately."
Amidala stepped forward, her composure returning. "Thank you, Master Jedi. But where can we go? The Trade Federation has taken control of the entire planet."
"We need to get you off-world," Obi-Wan replied. "The Senate must be informed of the invasion, and you'll be safer away from Naboo until we can rally support."
Amidala hesitated, glancing at her advisors, but finally nodded. "Very well. But we can't leave my people behind."
"We won't," Obi-Wan assured her. "But if you're captured, Naboo will fall completely under their control. We have to move quickly."
The Queen's resolve hardened. "Lead the way, Master Jedi."
A'Sharad and Obi-Wan moved swiftly, leading the Queen and her entourage through the Palace and back toward their ship. The sounds of battle were still audible in the distance, but they encountered little resistance on their way back. The droids were likely focused on securing the city, leaving the Palace lightly guarded.
As they reached the ship, A'Sharad quickly prepared it for takeoff, his heart pounding as he kept an eye on the horizon for any signs of pursuit.
"Everyone aboard!" Obi-Wan called, ushering the Queen and her advisors onto the ship.
Once everyone was inside, A'Sharad activated the engines, the ship lifting off just as a squadron of droid starfighters appeared on the horizon, racing toward them.
"Hang on!" A'Sharad shouted as he pushed the ship into full throttle, the craft soaring into the sky with the droid fighters in hot pursuit.
Blaster fire streaked past them as the droid starfighters opened fire, but A'Sharad expertly maneuvered the ship, weaving through the clouds as they ascended through the atmosphere.
"Master, we can't take much more of this!" A'Sharad warned as the ship's shields flickered under the onslaught.
"Just keep them off us until we're clear of the atmosphere," Obi-Wan replied, his voice steady despite the danger.
With one final push, the ship broke through Naboo's atmosphere, the stars stretching out before them. The droid fighters continued to pursue, but A'Sharad angled the ship toward the edge of the blockade, searching for a way through.
"There!" Obi-Wan pointed to a gap between the Trade Federation ships. "Head for that opening!"
A'Sharad nodded, pushing the ship to its limits as they hurtled toward the gap. The droid fighters were relentless, their blaster fire hammering the ship's shields, but A'Sharad remained focused, trusting in the Force to guide him.
"We're almost there!" A'Sharad called out as they neared the gap.
"Prepare for the jump to hyperspace!" Obi-Wan ordered, his hands moving quickly over the controls to plot their course.
As they reached the edge of the blockade, the ship shuddered from another hit, but A'Sharad held it steady, his eyes fixed on the stars ahead.
"Punch it!" Obi-Wan shouted, and A'Sharad activated the hyperdrive.
The stars blurred into streaks of light as they jumped to hyperspace, leaving Naboo and the Trade Federation blockade behind.
As the ship stabilized in hyperspace, A'Sharad let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, slumping back in his seat as the adrenaline began to fade.
"Is everyone alright?" Obi-Wan asked, turning to check on the Queen and her advisors.
"We're safe, thanks to you," Amidala replied, her voice filled with gratitude. "But Naboo..."
"We'll return, Your Highness," Obi-Wan assured her. "But first, we must get you to Coruscant. The Senate needs to know what has happened here. Once the Republic is aware, they will act."
Amidala nodded, though her eyes were filled with worry. "I hope you're right, Master Jedi. My people are depending on it."