CHAPTER SEVEN
THE QUI'TAN SYSTEM: YEARS EARLIER
Mara drifted in and out of consciousness as though she were in a fog. Two individuals lifted her body and placed her on a stretcher. She was weak, and could barely move. Male and female voices blended together in such a way that Mara could not understand.
A light was shining on her face. Mara slowly opened her eyes. A man was standing at her, while two women stood at her right.
"How is she?"
Mara breathed a little sigh of relief when she recognized Sebastian's voice. His voice was filled with anxiety and fear.
"Her pupils are normal and her vitals are stable," a woman replied. There was a calm, compassionate tone in her voice that made Mara feel at ease.
"The medic at the infirmary said that she suffered a concussion." Peri added. "But said she was fit to travel back here."
"We'll perform a CT scan. Let's get her into Room 10."
Mara reached out to the Force. Moments later, a lone figure appeared. She could not quite see who the person was.
"Don't worry, Mara. You are safe. No harm will come to you here. You must rest to regain your strength."
Who did the male voice belong to? Not Palpatine, or Vader. The man's tone was soft, calm, and reassuring. All her fears and anxiety disappeared.
She soon slipped back into unconsciousness.
Mara mumbled a few incoherent words as she opened her eyes. She was still groggy. The throbbing pain in her head made it difficult for her to concentrate. She massaged her forehead with her fingers. The momentary relief allowed her to focus on her surroundings. A computer screen monitored her vital signs. She had been dressed in a white sleeveless hospital gown.
"Hello, Mistress Jade."
Mara looked up to find a medic droid standing next to her bed. Mara shook her head. "Where am I?" she whispered.
"You are in K'zal One Hospital, here in the capital city of K'zal, on the Qui'Tan System." He activated the comlink next to her bed. "Doctor, Miss Jade has regained consciousness."
"Excellent. I'll be there in a moment."
"How long have I been here," she asked. Her mouth was dry, and she was still groggy from the medication. Mara pointed to the pitcher on the table. "May I have a glass of water?"
"You arrived a few days ago," the droid replied, handing her a glass.
"What about the mission?"
"I do not know all of the details, but it was a success."
A young woman entered. She had black hair that was tied in a braid that fell over her right shoulder. Her attire was that of a typical medical doctor; white jacket and shirt, dark pants, with simple black flats on her feet.
She gave Mara a warm smile as she approached her bed. "Hello. I am Dr. Evonne Al'Guion. How are you feeling today?"
"I feel as though I out-drank everyone in the cantina."
Evonne laughed. "That's a result of that nasty bump on the head. You should feel better in a day or so."
"You said your name was Al'Guion?" Mara asked, still groggy.
"Yes," she nodded. "Sebastian is my brother. He's been coming here to check on you."
"Oh. That's why you both have the same last name," Mara replied. "Sorry. I don't know why I said that."
Mara tried to sit up, but the pain in her back shot through her body like a blaster. She bit her lip to keep herself from crying out.
"Bring me two more pillows, please," Evonne ordered the droid. "You're still pretty sore from your accident." Evonne took the pillows from the droid and placed them behind Mara's head and back. She gently helped her to sit up.
Evonne smiled as she sat on the bed. "We ran several tests right after you arrived. All your neurological tests were normal, but your blood pressure is high. I want to keep you here until we get it under control."
Before Mara could say anything, Evonne leaned in closer, giving her a grateful hug and kiss. "Thank you for all you've done for us."
Mara was stunned. Such gestures were unfamiliar to her. The Emperor had never even attempted any attempt at a physical display of affection, no matter how many successful missions she had accomplished. It was unheard of. Any display of affection was a sign of weakness. After his death, it took her time before she could display any care or kindness to anyone. Her relationships to Karrde and Lando started professional but soon turned into friendship.
"How's our patient doing today?"
Sebastian entered the room. His hands were behind his back, for he had a surprise for her.
"Mara is well on her way to recovery." Evonne narrowed her eyes. "But, when you do get out of here, you must to take it easy for a couple of days. I don't want you fighting any pirates for at least a week."
Mara laughed. "I promise I'll take it easy."
"Well, I have something that might help you feel better." He handed her the lightsaber. "You dropped it when you collapsed. I kept it safe while you recovered."
Gratitude and serenity resonated throughout her senses as she took the weapon from him. Other than the Jade's Fire, this was her most prized possession.
"Thank you," she said. The attraction she had towards Sebastian returned. Mara immediately pushed those feelings aside. The smile disappeared. "I understand everything went according to plan," Mara said, in a professional tone.
"Yes," Sebastian's face beamed with pride. "We never could have done it without you and this team. Kael flew the Artifacts back to Qui'Tan. I was able to pilot your ship back home. I must say, the Jade's Fire is an outstanding vessel. However…" he paused, "I have some bad news."
Mara's heart beat a bit faster. Her eyes widened as she braced for the worst.
"As we exited out of hyperspace, we encountered an intense meteor storm. Your ship suffered serious damage."
"Damaged!" Mara exclaimed. She threw the covers off her bed, but the pain in her back stopped her. "I need to get to the hangar," she said anxiously.
"Mara, no," Evonne pleaded. She gently placed her hands on Mara's shoulders. "You're in no condition to go anywhere."
"Please Mara," Sebastian said. "You have to rest."
The calmness in his voice made sense in her mind. She was weak, and in no condition to make any repairs.
Sebastian took Mara's hand in his. He had a sincere look in his blue eyes. "I promise you this," Sebastian vowed. "On the day you're released from the hospital, we'll go to the hangar where your ship is being is being held. I will arrange to have Jex Mytlan, our chief engineer, meet us. He's the best, and will do everything possible to repair your ship. Agreed?"
His solemn promise touched Mara. His declaration made her feel calm, at peace with the knowledge, and that he would do everything he could to help her.
"Agreed," she whispered.
"I" think we need to let Mara rest," Evonne motioned to her brother to the door.
"Yes," he nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow."
Mara watched as they left. She sighed while she rested her head on the pillow. She was feeling groggy, not only from the medication but also from the news regarding her ship. Once her body had healed, Mara would repair her ship and returned to the Alliance. The mission would soon become a distant memory.
Mara had finished lunch when the orderly droid entered. "May I take your tray," he asked.
"Yes," she nodded.
"I see your appetite has returned," he commented, taking the tray. "You ate everything."
"I'm feeling better," Mara smiled. "And the food is delicious."
"Our Chief of Staff once said the patients are here to get well," he said. "They shouldn't be made sick by the food."
"So true," she chuckled.
Minutes after the droid left, Evonne knocked. "Are you ready for some visitors?"
"Yes," Mara nodded.
Evonne entered, followed by Sebastian and a stately, regal older couple. "Mara," Evonne said. "I would like to introduce my parents, Grand Duke Tirenne and the Grand Duchess Selah."
Selah wore a long, soft, brown dress, a simple design made from expensive cloth-grey strands of hair sprinkled throughout her black braided bun. A gold wedding ring and earrings were the only jewelry she wore. Tirenne was outfitted in a simple, but expensive outfit. His hair, along with his beard and mustache, were almost gray. In addition to his wedding ring, he wore a ring that symbolized the coat of arms of the royal house of Al'Guion; a Qui'Tanian Egalan rising above a mountain.
Tirenne kissed Mara's hand. "My dear," he smiled warmly, tears in his eyes. "You have my undying respect and friendship for everything you have done."
Selah sat on the bed, and wrapped her arms around Mara in a deep, heartfelt embrace. Soft, quiet sobs were the only sounds heard in the room. As with Evonne earlier, no one had ever hugged her like this. Mara had embraced people before, but never of such an intimate nature. As the Emperor's Hand, she had seduced men and made friends with high-level women, only to gather intelligence to pass on to her Master. While growing up in the Palace, Mara had been placed in the care of the Emperor's appointed governess, a stern, no nonsense woman by the name of Donessa Elvira.
"Never show affection to anyone, Mara. It is a sign of weakness. Your loyalty is to the Emperor, your Master, and no one else. Obey his orders and serve him faithfully."
Mara hesitated, and then slowly wrapped her arms around the woman. Calmness swelled throughout her senses. This peaceful feeling was unlike she had ever experienced.
When the embrace ended, Selah took Mara's hands in her own. Her eyes were filled with tears of joy and gratitude. "How can I ever thank you for what you did?"
"I was just doing my job," Mara replied humbly.
"But you did much more than that, my dear. You brought our son back home. He told us how you saved his life. We will be forever grateful to you for that."
"I have spoken to Talon Karrde," Tirenne said. "You and the Alliance will be greatly compensated, in addition to the fee that had been agreed upon. Also; you, along with the others on the team," he paused, "and Melchik, will be awarded our Medal of Valor for you heroism. The award ceremony will take place after the Governors Inaugural, to be held in two months' time."
"I don't know what to say, other than," she paused, "thank you."
"Now," Selah patted Mara's hand. "I want you to stay with us at the Palace."
"That's very kind of you, but my quarters on the Jade's Fire will be just fine."
"Nonsense." Selah waved her hand. "I insist."
"But it will be just fine, my Lady," protested Mara. "And, I don't want to inconvenience you."
Selah laughed. "My dear, we have more than enough room."
"But…" Mara protested.
"I suggest you reconsider, my dear." Tirenne interrupted. "Many statesmen and politicians have gone up against my wife, only to be outmatched. And," he gave her a sly look. "My wife refuses to take 'no' for an answer, especially for something like this. I learned that years after we had been married."
"Was it that long?" Selah was playfully surprised. "Now, Tirenne, that's not true," she playfully admonished. "It was only after a month of marriage, and you know it."
Tirenne smiled as he lovingly caressed his wife's cheek with his forefinger. Their interaction touched Mara's heart. Here was a devoted couple with a deep love and affection for one another. Even though she had only known them briefly; she felt a certain kinship with them.
"Thank you, my Lady. I accept your kind offer."
"Excellent," Selah exclaimed. "Please. Call us by our names."
Mara blushed at this kind gesture. Yet, Selah not only did this out of gratitude, but out of a sincere compassion that that was a part of her nature.
"Okay, I think Mara needs to rest," observed Evonne.
"Of course," Tirenne took his wife's hand to help her to her feet. "We will see you soon Mara."
Selah kissed Mara on the forehead. "You are in our prayers, my dear."
Mara watched as they all left the room. It made her think. Did she have parents like Selah and Tirenne? What about brothers and sisters? Where did she come from? Palpatine never gave her any details about her family of origin.
Except for that one time.
She was ten years old when her Master gave her a hint of her background.
THE EMPEROR'S PALACE
Mara followed her governess, Donessa Elvira, down the hallway to the Throne Room. "Why does the emperor want to see me," she asked.
"You will know soon," Donessa Elvira simply replied. The woman appeared calm but nervous. Her primary duty was to keep watch over the girl and report to the emperor. However, she was beginning to regret what she told Palpatine the previous day.
The doors opened. Mara followed the older woman to the center of the magnificent room. Palpatine, the Emperor, was seated on a platform above her. Lord Vader was at his side, while his Imperial Guards flanked each side of his throne. Donessa and Mara knelt before the emperor and bowed their heads.
"I am very pleased with your progress my dear," he uttered in a cold, but satisfied tone. "You have shown yourself to be an excellent student in both academics and physical instruction. Your abilities are unique and will greatly benefit the Empire and me."
"Thank you, Master," Mara replied in a deferential tone.
"Donessa Elvira." Palpatine addressed the woman. "Wait outside. I want to speak to Mara alone."
The woman trembled as she rose. "Yes, Master." As she left the room, Donessa hoped the emperor did not punish the girl too harshly.
"Rise, my child."
"Yes Master," she replied as she stood up.
"What is your purpose, Mara?"
"To serve you, Master," Mara answered.
"It has come to my attention you have been asking questions about your parents." Palpatine asked, somberly.
"Yes Master," Mara slowly replied. She began to tremble. "I was curious, that's all. I didn't mean to anger you, Master." Mara hung her head in shame. "Forgive me."
Silence filled the room. The Emperor studied her as he searched her senses. As she stood before him, humbled, he made a decision.
"Look at me," Palpatine ordered. Mara did as she was told.
"I am not angry. I understand your interest," he said. "You are descended from those who once were the protectors of the Galaxy, the Jedi." He lowered his tone to a whisper, but did not hide his anger. "Your parents were strong in the Force, but they were foolish and corrupt, as were all the other Jedi." An evil smile appeared on his face. "But you are different, Mara. You are strong, stronger than the two of them combined." Palpatine leaned forward, never taking his eyes off the child. "I hope you will not be so foolish.
Mara met his gaze with a strong resolve... "No Master." Her voice was steady and strong, filled with loyalty and determination. "I will succeed where they have failed."
Palpatine smiled. "Excellent. Remember. You will never ask any questions about your parents ever again. Understood?"
"Yes Master."
"Tomorrow, you will begin your formal Jedi training under my personal supervision. Henceforth, you will be known as The Emperor's Hand."
Mara sighed as she remembered that fateful encounter. As she closed her eyes, the voice she had heard earlier had returned to her consciousness.
Don't think about that now, Mara. You no longer serve The Emperor. You are your own person. Do not focus on the past. Focus on regaining your strength.
Yes, she thought, I must sleep. Rest is what I need now. As soon as I get well, I'll repair my ship and get back to work.
Mara studied the information on a datapad. She and Sebastian were in an air-limo headed to the Palace. He had kept his word. Once she had been released from the hospital, Sebastian took her to the hanger where her ship had been stationed.
"Well," Mara rubbed her forehead. "It's going to take several weeks to get The Jade's Fire operational. I find it hard to believe you were able to land it."
"Your vehicle is tough ship." Sebastian glanced at her, a smile on his face. "She's a lot like her pilot. Tough, strong and can handle anything thrown her way."
Mara looked at the ground, hoping that he did not see her blushing. She relished the compliment.
"I am really impressed by Jex and his team." Mara immediately changed the subject. "I'm going to enjoy working with them."
"He is the best," Sebastian agreed. "His father and grandfather were master engineers. Your ship is in good hands."
Nestled among the lush tropical gardens, the Palace was a stately residence. With the majestic mountains as a backdrop, and the ocean less than a mile away, the entire compound gave the impression of a welcomed sanctuary.
The air-limo slowed on the approach to the front entrance of the Palace. Selah and Tiran, along with several human and droid servants were waiting. The vehicle came to stop. Two human servants stepped forward to open the doors. Mara and Sebastian emerged. He handed Mara's belongings to a waiting droid.
"Mara," Selah greeted her with a smile and a hug. "Welcome to our home."
"We are happy to have you stay with us, my dear," Tirenne stated as he embraced her.
"I'm happy to be here," Mara replied. She looked past Tiran to see a man and a woman who were close in age to the Duke and Duchess.
"This is my chief advisor, Bek Kohle." Tiran waved his hand as he introduced them. "And this lady is my wife's chief handmaiden, Aoife Vel."
Aoife curtseyed deeply, while Kohle bowed. The woman was as tall as Selah and was dressed in a long ivory gown with long sleeves. A soft black belt was tied around her waist, with the official Qui'Tanian emblem, a symbol of an Egalan bird, over her heart. A few strands of grey were scattered throughout her brown hair, which had been pulled back on each side, held together by two small barrettes.
"I am honored to meet you, Miss Jade."
Kohle was a foot shorter than Aoife, almost bald, with a ruddy complexion, and deep creases around his eyes. His clothes were of a simple fashion; a long brown cloak that fell to just below the knee, a black shirt with black pants. He wore a pair of black boots that looked as though they had seen better days.
"Miss Jade," Kohle declared with great reverence in his voice, "It is a great honor to meet such a brave and gallant lady as you."
"Thank you." Mara was beginning to feel a bit embarrassed by all the attention. No one had ever heaped such praise upon her. The Emperor was the only exception. She accepted his accolades with a certain quiet resignation, never smiling or expressing any kind of delight in his presence. To do so would have displeased him.
Mara followed Selah and Tirenne into the Palace, along with the rest of the entourage. They were met by a young administrator.
"Excuse me Sir, My Lady." The man bowed. "The Czenan Ambassador is on the hologram."
"He is not expected for another hour," Kohle observed.
"He understands that, Sir. However, he is most anxious to speak to you."
"Very well." He glanced at Mara. "We will see you later this evening," Tirenne said.
Mara followed Aiofe, with the droid trailing behind. As they strolled down the majestic hallway, she marveled at the beauty of the Palace. Original paintings and works of art were tastfully displayed. Fresh flowers brightened the rooms.
"I think you will be quite comfortable, Mara," Aiofe stated. "Your room is one floor below the Family Quarters. Your two new handmaidens are waiting for you."
"Handmaidens!?" Mara's jaw dropped, and stopped dead in her tracks. She had droids in the past, but never had a female servant to attend to her. That was reserved for royalty and the rich.
"Yes." Aiofe replied with a nod. "Every honored guest has handmaiden or groomsman to assist them while they are here."
"I've never had handmaidens wait on me before," Mara stated.
"Then you share something in common with the ladies," Aiofe stated. "They have just completed their training. But, I can assure you, they are up to the task."
"The ladies have a number of skills that are vital to your service," Aiofe continued. "They speak three languages fluently, are well-informed on politics and current affairs. In addition, they are knowledgeable about fashion and beauty issues, as well as social trends. And," she paused, "are skilled in self-defense and can handle a blaster."
The group stopped in front of the double doors of the room. "Here we are. These are your new quarters." With that, she opened the doors and stepped aside. Mara followed. Her eyes widened as she stared in amazement.
The large chamber was bathed in gentle colors of ivory and soft blue, while the large glass windows were open to allow the ocean breeze to cool the room. Delicate curtains lightly stirred, while the chimes in the center of the room rang subtly throughout the place. Flowers and fine works of art decorated the apartment. A large computer station had been assembled in one part of the room, while a sitting area, complete with a lounging couch and dining set completed her surroundings
Mara slowly walked around as though she were in a trance. These quarters were far grander than the ones at the Emperor's Palace. Her gaze soon fell upon the two young women who stood in the middle of the room. They dropped into a deep curtsey before the Selah and Mara.
"Miss Jade, I would like to introduce you to your two handmaidens," Aiofe said. She waved her hand over to a young brown haired woman with brown eyes. "This is Beryl Kral." Aiofe waved her hand to the other one, a blond, blue eyed curvy woman. "This is Corliss Zeran."
The women were the same height, dressed almost identically in cream colored dresses with matching shoes. Each dress had the official Qui'Tanian emblem emblazoned over their hearts as Aiofe. Both women looked excited, ready to serve and perform their duties to such an honored guest.
"Good afternoon, Miss Jade," they said in unison.
"Hello ladies," Mara acknowledged both with a nod. She immediately took a liking to them.
"Ladies, collect Miss Jade's belongings." Beryl retrieved Mara's duffel bag, while Corliss took the datapads from the droid.
"Here is your bedroom," Aiofe announced, as she opened the doors. Once again, Mara was speechless. The vast canopy with light silk curtains that could be made into a private sanctuary. A vanity area sat near the opening of the enormous doors that led out to a sizeable balcony decorated with lounge chairs, and exotic foliage.
"Your fresher is over here," Aiofe stated, "and here is your closet."
The closet was sizeable, almost as large as her apartment at the Smuggler's Alliance. Every outfit was available, from flight suits and mechanic clothes, to casual pants, blouses and dresses, and more excellent dresses for the evening. Another dresser had contained a variety of undergarments. Shoes and boots, from top to bottom were displayed on a sizeable holder.
"And," Aiofe crossed to a small stand beside the shoe holder. "In the case that we are ever under attack," her voice trailed off as she pulled out a small drawer with a large red button lay in the middle. As soon as Aiofe pressed it, the walls receded. A turbolift was waiting on one side, while a small row of blasters lined the other side.
"This will take you to the transport area where an escape vehicle will be waiting for you." Aiofe took a blaster from the display. "These will be of great use to you."
"Thank you, but I will stay and fight if the situation arises." Mara rested her hand on her lightsaber.
Aiofe smiled. "I do not doubt that for a second." She pressed the button again where the panels assumed their rightful place. "All of these clothes are for you. The Duchess, her dressmaker, and I took a great deal of time to select these items. I trust the size is correct. Dr. Guion said that you and she appear to be the same size."
"These are all mine?" Mara's eyes grew wide, astonished.
"Yes. When it comes time for you to leave, you may take what you wish." Mara followed Aiofe into the main room, the women following close behind.
"Well," Mara motioned with her chin to the duffel bag that had rested on the bed. "I did bring some things with me."
"But, my dear," Aiofe shook her head. She was amused when she glanced at the bag. "You will be here for several weeks. You can't wear the same thing every day," she reasoned.
Mara nodded in agreement. All she brought was an extra flight suit, a night dress, and a casual outfit. Aiofe was correct. Mara will here for several weeks, and will require extra clothes. "I must admit, I am overwhelmed by such generosity," Mara quietly replied. "It's just too much. I would feel much better if I purchased my clothes."Aiofe
Aiofe glanced over to the ladies. "Would you excuse us? I would like to have a word with Miss Jade."
The women gave and nod and exited. Aiofe gave Mara a warm smile. "Miss Jade," she began. "I realize that you are a bit uncomfortable with such generosity. But, you must understand that you have done more than you realize. You helped to bring our heritage back to us. You saved Sebastian's life. This family will always be grateful for what you have done."
"There were others who risked their lives as well," Mara said. "Melchik, Peri, Kael and the entire team. They should be honored as well."
"You needn't worry. The Duke and Duchess have acknowledged them. They have been greatly rewarded."
Mara felt relieved the others had been recognized for their contribution. She hated to be singled out for recognition when others had made similar sacrifices. "I'm happy to hear that. I will thank Selah and Tirenne when I see them."
"The family meets in the Library for an aperitif at 1800 hours, and dinner will be served at 1900. Now, if you need to contact Beryl or Corliss, you can reach them here."
Aiofe walked over to the computer terminal. A small control panel displayed a white button. "The ladies carry a comlink with them so you can contact them anytime."
She pressed the button, and the two women re-entered the room. "There is a similar one next to your bed, and in the refresher. Now, I shall leave you so you may give your personal instructions to your handmaidens. Enjoy the rest of your day, Miss Jade."
Aiofe bowed to Mara. Before she left, she gave the women a stern look, as if to advise them to be on their best behavior.
"What does she mean by 'personal instructions'?" Mara asked, after the woman had left the room.
"It depends on what you expect of us," Corliss replied. "For example, what time you would like to rise, or have a beverage before you retire for the evening, things like that."
"I see." Mara glanced, first at the ground, then back up to the ladies. "Beryl, Corliss, we both have something in common. I have never had handmaidens before and this is your first assignment. So, I guess this means we really don't know what to expect from each other."
The women giggled. Mara smiled. She knew they were going to get along. "I tend to rise early, and have a caffe around 7. I would like for you to have my flight suit or mechanic's clothes laid out so I can get to work as soon as possible. I'll let you know about other things a bit later, how about that?"
"Yes, Miss Jade," the two responded in unison.
"You can call me Mara."
"I'm sorry," Beryl said. "We are not allowed to call you by your first name. We would get in trouble for that."
"I tell you what," Mara stepped closer to them. "When we are in private, you call me Mara. It will be our secret."
"Okay, Mara," the ladies giggled.
Mara glanced at the chrono-clock on the wall. "I think I'd like to relax before dinner. Perhaps take a bath."
"I'll prepare one for you," Corliss said. "Would you like a cup of tea while bathing?"
"That would be delightful," Mara replied.
"I'll help you choose an outfit to wear at dinner," Beryl offered.
"Wonderful," Mara smiled. "Let's see what we have to choose from."
Thirty minutes later, Mara was relaxing in warm tub of bubbles, her head resting on a soft cushion on the edge of the bath. She took a sip of her tea. "So, this is how the other half lives," she quietly observed.