This is a Rising of the Shield Hero and Star Wars crossover fanfiction only. Other franchises will be included.
Motoyasu, a young boy with a vivid imagination, found himself standing in the nursery room of a mysterious building that radiated opulence and elegance. The intricate details and lavish decorations surrounding him suggested that he was in a castle, though this was no ordinary stronghold from a bygone era. As he surveyed the room, he felt a curious blend of familiarity and strangeness wash over him. The architecture was undeniably futuristic, yet elements of traditional masonry were woven throughout, from the sturdy stone walls to the polished floor that gleamed under the ambient light. This environment seemed to exist in a space between time, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a place he could not quite remember. As he continued to absorb his surroundings, a startling realization struck him. A man entered the room, a figure he recognized but could hardly believe was there before him. It was his father, a Jedi Master known throughout the galaxy as Master Dooku. The encounter took place in Sereno, their family's home world.
Dooku's gaze fell upon Motoyasu, concern etched on his face. "Is something the matter, son?" he inquired, his voice gentle yet probing. Motoyasu, still processing the disorienting transition from meditation to reality, shook his head vigorously, as if to dispel the remnants of confusion lingering in his mind. "No, Father, you merely caught me unaware during my morning meditation practice. If I have any complaint at all, it is that I have once again run out of reading materials. Could you please grant me more access to the castle library database?" His request was delivered with earnestness, reflecting a deep commitment to his studies. Dooku couldn't help but chuckle, amusement flickering in his eyes at his son's unabashed enthusiasm. He felt a swell of pride; unlike many boys his age, Motoyasu was genuinely dedicated to his training and learning.
With a smile that conveyed both warmth and understanding, Dooku responded, "Son, that will not be possible at this time. It seems that you and another boy your age will shortly be admitted into the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. I can assure you that you will not find yourself bored there. You and your companion will likely join the youngling class under the guidance of my old master. Grand Master Yoda is quite a caring individual, but make no mistake—he is a demanding taskmaster. Should you manage to carve out some free time after his rigorous lessons, you can always make your way to the Jedi Archive to seek out additional reading materials. The Archivist will be able to guide you on what you are allowed to access." Dooku's thoughts drifted back to his challenging training days under Yoda, recalling the intense rigor that had shaped him. He understood that his son would face similar trials ahead.
He knew all too well how Yoda conducted those youngling classes with an unyielding approach. The Grand Master seemed committed to a singular purpose: to identify and cultivate those with true potential while weeding out the weak. His teaching methods were systematic, and his expectations were nothing short of perfection. Age was irrelevant in Yoda's eyes—he demanded the very best from every student, showing little patience for tears or complaints. The reports had indicated that the other boy joining Motoyasu in this adventure was the younger brother of the Amidala family from Naboo. This detail piqued Dooku's curiosity; it suggested a need to reassess his sister Padmé. If the young boy possessed a notably high count of midichlorians, it raised troubling questions about whether Padmé had somehow managed to evade detection during the blood screenings conducted on the youth of Naboo. Such revelations could have far-reaching implications, and Dooku knew that they must be examined with the utmost care.
He immediately checked the family registry to confirm the accuracy of the names listed. His son was officially recorded as Motoyasu Kitamura Dooku, while the other boy in question was noted as Naofumi Iwatani Amidala. Given the unusual circumstances surrounding the readings they received, he decided it was necessary to reach out to the Jedi Temple to recommend that an examination be conducted on Padme. The initial readings they had on her appeared to be flawed, revealing discrepancies that warranted further investigation. Such an occurrence was unprecedented; in the entirety of documented history, there had never been an instance of such a critical error occurring within the Jedi's examination processes. This situation suggested a twofold possibility: either the methodologies employed by the Jedi required refinement and correction, or there was something unusual brewing within the galaxy, signaling that significant events were on the horizon.
Motoyasu's mother, while not recognized as an exceptionally force-sensitive individual, had given birth to a son whose abilities seemed to surpass those of any child born on Sereno, with the glaring exception of his exam results. The remarkable speed at which Motoyasu absorbed knowledge and skills struck Dooku as particularly peculiar. Most children find themselves enchanted by games and exploration in their formative years, yet Motoyasu exhibited an unparalleled drive from an exceptionally young age. From the time he could first take steps, his focus was singularly fixed on learning and training, almost as if propelled by an invisible force pushing him towards mastery, akin to the rigorous training undergone by young soldiers. This relentless pursuit filled Dooku with immense pride and joy; to witness his son's unwavering dedication was a source of fulfillment. However, it also sparked a deep concern in Dooku's mind. He was apprehensive that Motoyasu might be sacrificing his childhood in this relentless quest for knowledge and skill. The worry regarding his son's future social interactions and emotional development was becoming increasingly apparent to those around them.
To counteract this potential issue, Dooku took steps he had never before considered necessary. He set up play dates with children of Motoyasu's age, recognizing the imperative for his son to cultivate appropriate social skills alongside his intellectual and physical training. Beyond his role as a father, Dooku understood the significance of grooming Motoyasu for future responsibilities. If tragedy were to befall him, he knew that his son could one day be expected to ascend as the next ruler of Sereno, becoming the next Count of the region. This awareness informed his decision to arrange these social gatherings, particularly with Naofumi, one of the Amidala siblings. Both Padme and Naofumi frequently spent time with Motoyasu during these play dates, presenting not only a chance for the children to bond and develop friendships but also an opportunity for both families to strengthen their political ties. Ultimately, Dooku viewed these interactions as a dual benefit: they served to foster the well-being and happiness of their children while also embracing the underlying strategic implications that came with family alliances in their noble world.
As they made their way into the Jedi Temple, the importance of maintaining their friendships became starkly clear. In the world of the Jedi, emotional connections and attachments are viewed with skepticism and often outright disapproval. The Jedi's strict adherence to their code emphasizes the need to suppress personal emotions to avoid the potential vulnerabilities that such attachments can create. Being open about their feelings could lead to emotional manipulation, which could detract from their primary duty: to serve and protect the galaxy. The fear of causing pain to those they care about could cloud their judgment, leading them to hesitate in making crucial decisions. The Jedi understood that even the most benign relationships could spiral into betrayals, drawing individuals closer to the dark side, a fate they must vigilantly avoid.
For Motoyasu and Naofumi, the conversation surrounding emotional connections seemed trivial. They had always prided themselves on their ability to manage their emotions effectively, refusing to allow their feelings to dictate their choices. From a young age, they cultivated a sense of emotional discipline, learning when to engage with their feelings and when to set them aside for the greater good. Motoyasu held a clear view on this; in his estimation, those who perceived love as a weakness were often simply individuals looking for an easier path—one that steered clear of the inherent risks that come with deep emotional involvement. He reflected on the relationship between his parents; his father's love for his mother was evident, yet never did it come at the expense of his responsibilities. There was a time and place for everything, and his father exemplified this balance, demonstrating that some duties demanded unwavering focus and could not be postponed.
One of the most crucial teachings from his father was the importance of discipline in every aspect of life. As the future Count of Sereno, Motoyasu understood that his path was distinct from a carefree existence; instead, it was one paved with obligations and expectations. His training was meticulously designed to prepare him for the inevitable moment when he would bear the weight of leadership, ensuring the safety and prosperity of an entire planet. This was a responsibility that he accepted wholeheartedly, never once shying away from the gravity of his future role. He recognized that should something happen to his father, the mantle of Count would fall upon his shoulders, a burden he was ready to embrace.
He drew significant parallels between his circumstances and those faced by his friend Naofumi, who had undergone a profound transformation in his understanding of duty and responsibility. Naofumi had come to accept a difficult reality: should Padme, a key figure in their lives and the political landscape of Naboo, meet an untimely end, he would be required to step up and assume the temporary mantle of leadership as the steward of Naboo, guiding the people through a turbulent period until the election of the next Queen could take place. This acknowledgment of responsibility weighed heavily on Naofumi, yet it also illuminated his character, showcasing his willingness to prioritize the needs of his community over his aspirations.
For Motoyasu, this sense of responsibility mirrored his unwavering loyalty to his people. He recognized that his commitment to his homeland, Sereno, was not merely a duty but an intrinsic part of who he was. This loyalty was a driving force that would shape his actions, influence his decisions, and ultimately define the core of his leadership style. He perceived his role not just as a position of power but as a sacred trust bestowed upon him by his fellow citizens. This understanding instilled a profound sense of pride within him, reinforcing his belief that serving Sereno was an honor he would carry with dignity. Each challenge he faced was met with the resolve to protect and uplift his people, underscoring a deep-rooted conviction that his purpose extended far beyond personal ambitions. In every sense, his identity as a leader was inextricably linked to his dedication to Sereno, a bond he cherished and was determined to uphold in all circumstances.
As Count Dooku and his son Motoyasu stepped aboard the sleek interior of the private shuttle, a sense of anticipation filled the air. The cabin was adorned with elegant features that spoke of both luxury and function, an environment befitting someone of Dooku's stature. As they settled into their seats, Dooku wasted no time in issuing instructions to the pilot, his voice precise and authoritative as he commanded, "Set the course for Naboo." The pilot responded immediately, a well-trained professional accustomed to the demands of high-stakes travel.
"Before we make our brief stop before we continue towards Coruscant, son, let us take this opportunity to discuss what lies ahead for you," Dooku continued, his tone shifting to one of mentorship, preparing to guide his son through the complexities of the journey they were embarking on.
With the shuttle now on its planned trajectory, Dooku turned his full attention to Motoyasu, his expression reflecting both pride and a hint of anxiety. "Tell me, son, do you feel any trepidation about visiting Naboo? It is a planet you have only previously ventured to a handful of times and much of what you know comes from tales and legends rather than direct experience." His inquiry was steeped in the kind of parental concern that arises when a loved one prepares to leave the safety of the known world and step into the unpredictable nature of life beyond their familiar surroundings.
Motoyasu met his father's gaze unwaveringly, a gentle yet resolute smile breaking across his face. He took a moment, contemplating his feelings and the essence of fear itself. "Yes, Father," he responded, his voice steady and full of sincerity. "I do feel fear. To deny it would be to deny an essential part of being human. Anyone who claims to be entirely free of fear is likely deceiving themselves. Yet, I also understand that this journey is a vital step along my path—one that is intertwined with my destiny. It is a road I must traverse, and I will not permit anything to hinder my commitment to my duty."
In his father's gaze, Motoyasu perceived a depth of concern that resonated within him. It was a realization that the worry Dooku felt for him mirrored the feelings likely bestowed upon Dooku by his father, creating a cyclical legacy of parental care and anxiety. This understanding fortified Motoyasu's resolve, illuminating the bond between father and son, one that transcended the generations and the challenges that lay ahead as they charted their respective courses through the galaxy.
"I know emotions can cloud judgment," Motoyasu continued, his tone calm yet resolute, "but I am approaching this new chapter of my life with a clear mind and pure intentions. What do I truly have to fear? The unknown? Every experience and every challenge I face will serve to strengthen my resolve, and I am determined to make our family proud through my actions." His conviction echoed in the air, a testament to his spirit and determination.
Count Dooku found himself momentarily taken aback by his son's level of maturity, a trait so often lacking in young individuals faced with similar circumstances. Many boys, overwhelmed by the thought of leaving their cherished homes and loved ones, would have succumbed to tears, begging and pleading for their parents to keep them safe and sound. Yet here stood Motoyasu, embodying a sense of acceptance that transcended mere compliance. Instead of viewing this departure as a source of dread, he embraced it as an opportunity—a formidable challenge that he could conquer to prove his strength and uphold the honor of his family name.
"Well said, my son," Dooku replied, a hint of pride slipping into his voice. "I do not doubt that your friends share your sentiments, but I must warn you that the future may hold unforeseen darkness. You might encounter situations that will test your resilience in ways you have yet to imagine. The galaxy, while undeniably beautiful and vast, is also fraught with dangers and treacherous paths. You need to remain vigilant and attuned to your surroundings. Never take any situation for granted. Keep your guard up, and always, always be aware of what lurks around you."
Motoyasu nodded, absorbing his father's warning with a sense of seriousness. Though he could not shake the feeling that his father's cautions were laced with a tinge of paranoia, he recognized that such sentiment stemmed from love and a desire to protect. This conversation was not just a farewell; it was a transfer of wisdom, a reminder that strength lay not only in courage but also in the awareness of the ever-changing dynamics of the world around him.
Motoyasu, curious about their unexpected stop, directed a question at his father, inquiring why they were landing on Naboo. The detour seemed unnecessary and caught him off guard. Dooku chuckled at the inquiry, his amusement evident as he replied, "Yes, it is indeed a bit of a detour. However, considering that I need to perform a repeat examination on Padme, and we are also likely to be bringing her and her brother along to the Jedi Temple, this diversion could prove to be quite beneficial. It could save both us and our friends a significant amount of time. Rather than viewing it purely as a detour, think of it as an opportunity to help your friends out."
Motoyasu sat quietly, trying to maintain his composure as he listened to his father's lighthearted remarks. However, the smile on his father's face did little to mask the tension that was evident in Motoyasu's expression. Beneath the surface of joviality, a sense of unease tugged at him, and he felt compelled to communicate what had been weighing on his mind. His instincts told him that it was vital to be open and honest, especially when it came to fostering a sense of trust between himself and his father.
"I don't have a problem with Padme," he began, his voice steady but firm. "She always seems so kind and pleasant, and I enjoy spending time with her. However, the same cannot be said for her brother. I find that he is easily angered when someone tries to disrespect him and call him a commoner like what happens at the banquets that we usually attend to, which detracts from his character." Motoyasu paused for a moment to gather his thoughts, reflecting on the times he had spent with both siblings.
"I would much rather play and engage with Padme," he continued, "because her brother tends to let his temper get the best of him whenever anyone dares to refer to him as just a commoner. I've seen him lash out over such trivial matters, only to remind everyone around him that he is the Prince of Naboo like that would stop the other Noble children from making fun of him. It's quite disheartening."
Motoyasu couldn't shake off the feeling of frustration that accompanied his observations. It wasn't just the brother's desperate need to defend himself that bothered him; there was something else. "On top of that, I can't help but notice that he often flirts with the castle maids when he gets them alone. he is always playing it cool, but I see right through it. This behavior only adds to my disinterest in spending any time with him," he concluded, his tone laced with disappointment.
At that moment, it became clear to him that navigating relationships within the walls of the castle was proving to be far more complicated than he had anticipated, and he sought the understanding and guidance of his father to help make sense of it all."
Dooku let out a hearty laugh, the sound echoing in the spacious room, and casually remarked that it is quite typical for adolescents to exhibit a keen interest in the opposite gender. He found it particularly amusing that while many of his peers might easily become entranced by a captivating young lady, this specific teenager seemed to have a preference that diverged from the norm. Rather than only engaging in social interactions or pursuing romantic interests, the boy displayed an extraordinary affinity for the written word, immersing himself in volumes of literature. "No offense, son, but you are not quite different, you just do not hide the fact you woe them yourself," he said, a hint of amusement still in his voice. He continued, revealing a long-held secret: for years, he had been quietly guiding this young student in the ways of the Force. He had hoped that the Jedi Council would remain oblivious to the boy's existence, allowing him the freedom to grow without the pressures of institutional training. Unfortunately, however, the council had discovered both the student and his friend Naofumi, recognizing that their considerable potential in the Force could not simply be overlooked. Dooku noted that the council's attention might soon turn to Padme as well, depending on the results of her upcoming evaluation. He pointed out that her transition into the Jedi Temple could take as long as a year, as the council deliberated whether or not to accept someone of her age at such a late stage in their training.
Motoyasu, chuckling at Dooku's remarks, interjected with a thought about the foolishness of ignoring someone who possesses significant strength. He emphasized the inherent risks involved in allowing individuals with untapped potential to go untrained. Without proper guidance, they could unintentionally become a dangerous threat to the galaxy, or even worse, find themselves on a path that leads to the dark side. Dooku couldn't help but find humor in Motoyasu's perspective, especially since it mirrored his own beliefs. Much like his student, Motoyasu embraced the concept of the living Force, recognizing its complexity and the necessity of balancing both sides rather than adhering strictly to one ideology. This shared outlook added depth to their conversation, deepening the understanding between the two as they contemplated the future of these young potential Jedi.
Upon arriving at Naboo, he was introduced to the two siblings, and after a brief moment of discussion, he decided it would be prudent to conduct a small test to assess their potential. To his astonishment, the results revealed that their counts were remarkably high, matching the levels exhibited by his son. This was a development that had not been anticipated and was, in fact, quite unprecedented in its implications. Unfortunately, amidst this promising discovery, he was also met with troubling news. Padme, one of the siblings, had been elected as the Queen of Naboo. This significant responsibility placed her in a position where attending the Jedi Temple would be entirely out of the question. Her new duties as the ruler would leave her with little to no time for anything outside the confines of her obligations. The thought of her being off-world while her planet depended on her leadership was simply untenable.
In light of this situation, Motoyasu proposed a solution that seemed sensible given the circumstances—he suggested arranging for Padme to have a tutor. This arrangement was akin to how a child unable to attend school due to illness or frailty would receive educational support at home. The idea resonated with him, as he recognized its potential to provide Padme with guidance without compromising her responsibilities as Queen.
However, Naofumi could not shake his unease regarding Padme's safety. He had serious reservations about her being away from him, particularly due to the lurking threat of criminal elements that could exploit her vulnerable position. His concern centered on groups like the Trade Bank Federation, whom he deemed utterly untrustworthy. He expressed his disdain vehemently, noting that these entities seemed more focused on their profit margins than the well-being of the inhabitants of Naboo. "They turn a world into a toxic gulag and care only for their wealth. The welfare of the people is inconsequential to them, and if some suffer or perish in the process, they simply don't care," he stated, emphasizing the harsh reality of their greed.
Motoyasu listened to his friend's passionate outburst, shaking his head at the colorful language but fully grasping the underlying concern. He knew that if a similar threat were posed to Sereno, his home, the populace would rise without hesitation. Sereno was a place characterized by its resilience, a system that would not allow exploitation to go unchecked. The Dooku family had long been the guardians of Sereno, ensuring its safety and maintaining order, and they were prepared to take decisive action if necessary to protect it from any malevolent force.
Unexpectedly, the council delivered a message indicating that a Jedi Instructor from the Temple would be designated to tutor Padme in the ways of the Force. This instructor would be Yaddle, a respected figure who belonged to the same species as Grand Master Yoda. Known for her patience and skill, she had earned the affection of many youngling students over her years of teaching.
Despite the concerns and protests expressed by Naofumi, the reality remained that he would have to attend the Jedi Temple for training, as the council was resolute in their decision. They recognized the immense potential he possessed and understood that neglecting his education would be a grave mistake. Some members of the council voiced their fears that not providing proper training for him and Motoyasu could eventually lead to the emergence of a new threat like Exar Kun, who had once risen to power and caused chaos within the galaxy. The council was acutely aware of the importance of vigilance, and thus, they regarded training as not only necessary but vital to preserving peace and order.
"I understand Your Majesty," the speaker continued, their voice steady and respectful. "You shall remain on Naboo, as your responsibilities dictate, and your brother will attend the Jedi Academy as planned, accompanied by my son. Rest assured, he shall receive ample aid and guidance from both myself and my son, Motoyasu." Hearing this assurance brought a wave of relief to Padme. She realized that asking the tutor who was set to educate her to accept an additional student—her brother—was not a feasible request. It wasn't merely a matter of convenience; the implications ran deeper, intertwining with the principles that the Jedi Council upheld. She turned her gaze toward her brother and nodded, grasping the importance of maintaining the careful balance the Jedi sought, which was crucial in their eyes.
"I understand, Master Dooku," Padme replied, her tone firm yet respectful. "But please, you must understand my position: I will be requesting regular communication opportunities and correspondence. The Jedi may wish to sever familial connections, but I am resolute in my intention not to do so, regardless of any objections they may raise. They must either accept this condition, or I will outright refuse any training they have to offer. I cannot abandon my brother or allow him to feel as though I have cast him aside for the sake of political advantage or due to yielding to the desires of the Jedi Council." Dooku listened intently, fully comprehending her sentiment. He recognized a shared belief between them; he too valued familial ties above all, and he respected her determination to maintain those connections.
"They hold the belief that permitting such familial associations can render a novice Jedi vulnerable, making it easier for them to succumb to the dark side of the Force. Once an individual descends that harrowing path, the probability of returning to the light diminishes significantly. Sadly, history has shown that some of the most formidable dark side users began as Jedi who fell into that abyss," Dooku explained, his voice grave yet understanding. Padme acknowledged his perspective but countered that her concerns were not so much about the risks of familial ties but rather about the dangers that can arise from aligning too closely with one side of the Force and the corrupting influence that could ensue from such singular focus. She emphasized that both she and her brother had dedicated themselves to finding balance in every aspect of their lives, and they were determined to embody this principle in their connection to the Force as well.
"The most effective means of steering clear of potentially perilous pitfalls is to be acutely aware of their existence. We are all too familiar with those dangers, and I assure you, we will not be easily coerced into falling to either side of the Force. My brother once perceived the Force as a living entity, believing that the light and dark sides are essentially two facets of the same coin. As I mentioned, I expect regular communications or correspondence from my brother. That is non-negotiable." Padme's resolve was unmistakable; she was not merely a Queen by title, but a steadfast leader who knew when to assert her authority on matters of significance. Her determination to protect her family and maintain her values in the face of challenges was a testament to her strength and character.
The council found itself in a position where it had no viable alternative but to accept a compromise regarding communication policies. The decision ruled out the possibility of voice or video communications entirely, focusing instead on a more limited option that would allow her to receive a single letter each week from her brother. The rationale behind this restriction was rooted in the council's commitment to safeguarding the Jedi Temple's security against potential threats, particularly from outside cyber-attacks or other forms of interference that could compromise its integrity.
The council was particularly concerned about any communication that might unveil sensitive details regarding the temple's structure or its exact location. They believed that allowing discussions related to the temple's inner workings, daily activities, or the movements of individuals entering or exiting the premises could create vulnerabilities that could be exploited by adversaries intent on causing harm. To the council, these issues were not trivial; they were crucial to maintaining the safety and secrecy that the Jedi Temple required to function effectively and securely.
One of her friends took it upon themselves to elucidate the situation further. "Essentially, Padme, the letter you will be receiving is akin to correspondence sent by a regular soldier to their family, with all sensitive and classified information thoroughly redacted. This practice is deeply rooted in military protocol and has been a standard operating procedure for countless generations within the galactic military framework. Such measures have been in place for centuries, with minimal objection from the families whose loved ones serve in the defense of the Galactic Republic."
Hearing these words brought a sense of understanding and acceptance. As she processed this information, it became evident that the restrictions imposed were not arbitrary decisions made by the Jedi Council alone; rather, they were reflective of a broader practice embedded in the very fabric of the military forces that stand guard over the Republic. This realization provided her with some comfort—recognizing that, while the situation was far from ideal, it was a necessary precaution that had been time-tested and widely accepted by those who understood the stakes involved.
With a warm and heartfelt embrace, Naofumi bid farewell to his sister, he left with his friend and his father towards the landing pad and they made their way toward the shuttle that would transport both Naofumi and Motoyasu to the renowned planet of Coruscant. This bustling hub was not only famous for its sprawling urban landscape and towering skyscrapers but also served as the training ground for new members of the Jedi Order, affectionately referred to as "younglings." As Naofumi reflected on this transition, he found himself smiling wryly at the irony of their situation. Despite being in their early teens, the two boys were just a few short years away from adulthood, a status that would soon grant them the ability to marry and start families of their own. The thought of leaving behind his sister and the familiar comforts of his home planet weighed heavily on Naofumi's heart.
"I do not like this," Naofumi admitted, his voice tinged with reluctance. "I don't enjoy being away from my sister and the planet I call home. However, I suppose I should accept that this opportunity is the best deal I can get at the moment." He turned to Motoyasu, trying to lighten the mood. "Come on, Motoyasu, tell me you packed some games for us to play during the shuttle ride. What are we going to do while we wait to get there?"
Motoyasu chuckled, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Of course, I brought games! But hey, if you're not in the mood for that, we could also work on strengthening our connection to the living Force through meditation. It might be a good way to pass the time, especially if you find the games tedious."
Naofumi considered this suggestion for a moment, weighing the options. "I suppose you have a point, Motoyasu. But if things get too boring, I can always pull up a book, novel, or some publication from the public extranet. I mean, you must have at least a few dozen books you enjoy reading stored in this shuttle's database."
Dooku, Naofumi's father, interjected with a knowing smile. "You're not alone in your quest for reading materials, Naofumi. I also have my selection of books if you are genuinely interested. They could provide another way to occupy your mind during the journey." The thought of delving into various stories and expanding their horizons while traveling to such an important new chapter in their lives offered Naofumi a sense of comfort. With new adventures on the horizon, he couldn't help but feel a blend of apprehension and excitement as they prepared to embark on their journey to Coruscant.