CHAPTER FIFTEEN
"And today, His Grace the Viscount Sebastian Al'Guion visited the Rebel Memorial, where he laid a wreath to honor those who lost their lives fighting against the Imperial Empire."
Luke leaned against his desk, arms folded, watching the event on the holoset. He was pleased that Sebastian paid tribute to those who died fighting for the Rebels. Corran had suggested that the students and teachers attend the ceremony. Luke was hesitant but agreed to allow teachers and students to attend if they wished to.
Luke rolled his eyes when Chavi appeared on the screen. "That was a wonderful speech by the Viscount." A devious look appeared on her face. "But the big question on everyone's mind is, who will be his consort at the Celebration Ball."
"Oh, please," Luke yelled at the set. "Do you think people are interested in that?" He shook his head and threw his hands in the air. "Never mind," he said quietly. "I forgot who I was listening to."
"The Viscount has the attention of many high-profile young ladies and beautiful holo-actresses, all eager to be by his side. This includes a certain Princess from a mighty family. However, I strongly feel his interest lies with a particular female Jedi student."
Luke turned off the holo-set. Celebration Day was always important to him. The Battle of Endor had been won, the Empire had been defeated, and Darth Vader had become Anakin Skywalker. It was one of the happiest days of his life.
This year was unlike any other. Sebastian's presence overshadowed the anticipation of Celebration Day. Qui'Tanian flags flew on every street corner, and Sebastian's image was everywhere. Luke could not walk down the hallways or even the streets without someone talking about the Viscount and his exploits.
Sebastian bothered Luke, but not as much as his argument with Mara. He missed their warm conversations and walks, nurturing their friendship over hot chocolate at a cozy café.
Artoo beeped several times and let out a short whistle. "What? Oh yeah. Thanks for handling that," the droid beeped again. "Oh, nothing, everything's fine."
Luke cringed when he heard his friend's long whistle. The droid always seemed to know when he was feeling down.
"Well, Artoo, things have been crazy since Sebastian came to Coruscant. I haven't been able to focus or get any work done."
Artoo beeped twice and let out two sharp whistles. "I know, I know," Luke nodded. "It's not every day that a large planet system like the Qui'Tan System joins the New Republic. And yes, I am very proud of what Leia did, but I can't seem to get excited for some reason."
Luke shook his head when he heard Artoo's response. "Mara? Are you saying that I'm upset because of our argument?"
Artoo beeped yes. Luke shook his head. "Okay," he acquiesced. "Maybe I do. Oh, Force, what am I going to do?"
"Why don't you talk to her, my son?"
The gentle, soothing voice comforted Luke, and as he closed his eyes and connected with the Force, the lovely image of Padme Amidala appeared. Luke was overwhelmed with both happiness and sorrow, and a small tear trickled down his cheek as she gave him a warm and compassionate smile. He always felt a pang of envy towards Leia for cherishing those precious moments of seeing their mother before she passed away.
"Why don't you go and talk to Mara?"
"She won't see me," Luke responded.
Padme put her hand on her hip. "How do you know?"
"I know."
"Oh," Padme drew back her head, a dubious look on her face.
"Well, no, not exactly," Luke stammered. "I mean, I have been so busy with work."
"So, you have so much work to do that you can't spare a few minutes to see your friend?" Padme took a step towards Luke, with a soft, motherly look of concern. "Is it because you're afraid to see her?"
"What? No."
"Luke," Padme said warmly, "you miss her."
His mother was right. "But what am I going to say?"
Padme smiled. "Don't worry, my son. You will know what to say. All you must do is listen to your heart. That was the same advice I gave to Leia."
"What? When?"
"Several years ago, she was torn between Han and Prince Isolder, not knowing what to do, so she reached out to the Force. I told her not to be stubborn and to listen to her heart. Listen to your heart, Luke." Padme gave her son a kind smile and vanished.
"Artoo, do you know where Mara is now?" he asked cheerfully.
The droid beeped in response. Luke grinned and snapped his fingers. "Of course, she's working on her thesis in the library. I'm going to see her. Artoo, please hold all my calls. I'll be back later," he said as he left the office, accompanied by a cheerful whistle from the droid.
Luke walked down the hallway toward the Jedi Library. The only sound in the tranquil hallway was the soft tapping of his footsteps on the marble floor. What would he say to her? "Hi, Mara, what are you doing?" No, that's not right. "Hey, Mara, what brings you to the library?" That sounds uninspired. "So, Mara, what have you been up to lately?" That's even worse than before.
As he approached the library entrance, he hesitated for a moment. Excitement and nervousness filled him as he took a deep breath and reached for the door handle. To his surprise, someone on the other side pushed the door open. His eyes grew wide, and his jaw dropped when he saw who it was.
"Mara!?"
"Luke!?"
They stood facing each other in stunned silence, waiting for the other to speak. "Excuse me," said the librarian droid, "you're blocking the entrance." "Apologies," Mara said softly as she stepped into the hallway. "So," she inquired once the door closed, "what brings the esteemed Jedi Master Skywalker to the Library?"
Luke attempted to respond but found himself speechless. Something about the captivating gaze of her emerald eyes left him feeling strangely vulnerable.
"What's wrong, Farm Boy?" Mara teased. "Ewok got your tongue?"
Luke blushed. She always knew how to get the best of him, even when he did not expect it.
"I was curious to see how you were doing," he stammered, trying hard to hide the delight in his voice.
"You could've called me on the com-link." Mara narrowed her eyes. She always enjoyed teasing him, and this moment was no exception. She felt a bit giddy upon seeing him.
"Yeah, I know." He looked like a bashful schoolboy, hoping to get up to ask a girl to a dance. That's it. I'll tell Mara how I feel. Maybe I can ask her to the Ball, he thought. "Let's take a walk."
As they strolled side by side down the hallway, Luke warmly greeted fellow teachers with a nod. Several padawans and older students dashed down the hall to make it to class on time. "Hey, slow down, everyone," Luke gently chided. He waited until they were alone. "Mara, how's your research on Lanoree Brock coming along?"
"It's good," Mara nodded. "I was truly impressed by her immense strength in the Force and her remarkable skills as a warrior."
Luke and Mara found themselves alone, and an awkward silence fell upon them. Luke nervously ran his fingers through his blond hair while Mara adjusted the strap on her shoulder, avoiding his gaze.
"Hey, Mara, I just wanted to apologize about the other day."
"It's okay, Luke. I'm sorry, too.
The two friends chatted quickly, their words overlapping, resulting in shared giggles as they realized their mistake.
"You first," Luke said.
"No. You go first."
"I'm sorry about the other day," Luke said as he shook his head. "I don't know what came over me. Everything was fine until Chavi said those ridiculous things about you and Sebastian. I just lost it and let the anger get the best of me."
"Then perhaps the great Jedi Master Luke Skywalker should undergo anger control meditation."
Luke let out a chuckle as he scratched the back of his neck. "I guess you're right."
"Don't worry, Luke," she said calmly and sympathetically. "You're not the first to get upset over Chavi's gossip and innuendo."
"Yeah, I know, but..." Luke waved his hand in the air. "I hate it when she makes bogus claims, especially directed at people I care about."
"Wow?" Her face softened, and her breathing slowed. "You feel that way about me?"
"Well... sure," Luke nervously shifted from one foot to the other. "I mean, Leia and Han consider you to be their best friend. Their children love it when you visit. Lando can't stop saying great things about you."
"And you? What do you think?" Mara asked as she moved closer to him.
"I mean," he stammered, "I believe you're one of the best students at the Academy. You've come a long way since you decided to become a Jedi. I'm proud of you."
A strange feeling came over Mara. There was something in his blue eyes that she had not seen before—a unique sincerity, an honesty that she found endearing, sweet, and caring. He looked so humble and vulnerable, and she was so touched by his apology that she wanted to kiss him. How would he react? Would he push her away or return the kiss? Regrettably, she wouldn't find out.
"Excuse me, Miss Jade."
Luke and Mara looked up. Wentz, Sebastian's chief groomsman, stood before them. He carried a small book wrapped in a ribbon.
"The landlord at your apartment building said I would find you here," explained Wentz.
"Yes," Mara said. "What can I do for you?"
Wentz presented the book to Mara, stating, "This is a collection of poems by Blythe Myrika. You spoke about her during the recent dinner. His Grace came across this copy and recalled your admiration for her work."
"Thank you," Mara smiled as she accepted the book and wondered how she would explain this to Luke.
"His Grace is hosting a dinner tonight for Prince Garon of Oclite. The Viscount would like you to attend as his guest," Wentz asked.
"She can't," Luke said. "Mara has a seminar tonight. Please tell the Viscount she can't make it."
Mara was shocked. Luke had never done that before.
"Mara is in the final stage of her studies," he explained. "She must focus on her work, not her nightlife."
MMara shot a quick, angry look at him before changing her demeanor when speaking to the servant. "Tell him I appreciate the book and thank him for his kindness," Mara said sweetly.
"I will relay the message to His Grace. Good day."
Luke and Mara grinned as they watched the man turn the corner. "What were you thinking?" Mara yelled. "And since when do you answer for me? Who do you think you are?"
"Looks like someone needs to practice Jedi Meditation on anger," Luke retorted.
"Very funny," she fumed sarcastically.
"I just wanted to remind you that you are still a student," Luke stated tersely. "You still need to attend class despite your 'busy social schedule.'"
Mara's eyes widened. "What do you mean, 'busy social schedule?'"
"Between dinners, playing Sabacc, or doing who knows what, I'm surprised you find time to attend class," Luke's blue eyes matched her green eyes in anger. "Mind telling me what went on last night?"
"That is none of your business," she replied defiantly. "I have a life outside of class."
"That's obvious," Luke said sarcastically.
Mara folded her arms across her chest, her eyes narrowing. She did not want to give in to his demand, yet she did not want him to jump to the wrong conclusion.
"Here's what happened. Neva Macross is now Leia's social secretary because I recommended her for the position. She and her boyfriend, Oren, invited me to celebrate with them. We were at the bar when Sebastian and his guests walked in. After introductions, Sebastian invited us to join them for dinner. I mentioned that I had an early class the next morning and would only stay for the first course."
Her sharp emerald eyes bore into his deep sapphire gaze with fury. A heavy silence filled the air as they stood locked in a wordless standoff, each refusing to back down and waiting for the other to yield.
"That's it," Luke snarled.
"That's it," Mara replied in an icy tone. "And I'll have you know that I haven't missed any of my classes."
"Is that so?"
"Yes," Mara hissed.
"That's not what Jedi Master Tolth told me," Luke argued. "He says you haven't been to class for two weeks. Care to explain?"
Mara spoke in a low, steady voice and said, "First, I completed all those assignments weeks ago." She looked irritated and continued, "Second, Master Tolth said I no longer needed to attend since I was far ahead of the class. And most importantly, I have not spent every waking minute with Sebastian. Lastly, this conversation is over. Goodbye, Master Skywalker." Mara then turned and walked away.
"This will go on your record," Luke shouted.
"You know how to spell my name, Farm Boy," Mara yelled.
After a while, Wentz cautiously looked from behind a column, unable to ignore a loud argument. As he returned to the Embassy, he pondered the heated dispute over something seemingly simple.
Luke stormed into his office and slammed the door. "Why do I allow her to affect me like this?" he muttered with frustration.
A shiver of unease coursed through him, and beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Luke stumbled to his desk, gripping its edge tightly to steady himself. After a moment, the unsettling sensation subsided. "What was that all about?" Luke muttered, shaking his head. "It's probably just my imagination." He settled back into his chair, attempting to dispel the strange feeling, and refocused on his work.
Sebastian was positioned at the head of the conference table, joined by Kohle and Marcus, along with four junior staff members - Odette Darde, Jaa Felian, Leys Ammes, and Bartant Finnal. Each person had engaged with representatives from various planets as part of the Qui Tan System's endeavor to establish a new scientific research center in a different region of the galaxy. Odette Darde eloquently presented the case for siting the center on Ta'a Chume'Dan in the Hapes Consortium.
"The Hapes Consortium is excited about establishing the center on the outskirts of the capital city," Odette said. "Ambassador Sabe Phact assured that the Queen Mother is committed to supporting the project in every possible way."
"How much will they tax us," Kohle asked.
"It is still up for debate," Odette sighed. "The Ambassador suggested thirty percent."
"Outrageous," Marcus fumed. "The Hapes Consortium should be grateful that we want to build on their planet."
"That is not unusual," Jaa said. "Wedecuth wants to charge fifty percent."
"Are these the only places interested in this project? Perhaps it's time to consider other options," Marcus said.
"Such as?" Kohle asked.
"What are your thoughts on Scesevi?" Marcus looked around the room. "I know they are looking to establish businesses in the area."
"It is not time to pursue an alliance," Bartant declared. "Their war ended less than two months ago."
"I agree," Kohle nodded. "Prince Vidarr defeated his uncle Gredar to assume his rightful place on the throne. Their government is still in its infancy."
"Why should we wait?" Marcus asked enthusiastically. "It would be an excellent opportunity to reestablish our ties with the Scesevians."
"No," Sebastian shook his head. "I agree with Kohle. We should wait. If there is no further business, I say the meeting is adjourned." Sebastian smiled at Kohle. "I know you are eager to visit with your son and his wife, Stannis and Lissa, not to mention six-month-old Maxir."
"I was surprised when they chose to stop on Coruscant on their way to Naboo," Kohle beamed proudly. "Thank you again for allowing me to spend time with them."
Odette asked excitedly, "Do you have any photos of your grandson?"
"I most certainly do." Kohle reached into his case and took out several holos. Everyone gathered around the minister except Marcus. His commlink showed he had an incoming call. Marcus slipped out of the room. Out of earshot, he answered. "Not now," he whispered. "I'll call you later." With that, he hurried to his room.
E-One-M-Two, a senior protocol droid, hurried down the hallway en route to the conference room. He breathed a sigh of relief as Sebastian approached. "Sir, Sir, I'm so glad you are here."
"What is it?"
"Ambassador Phact is on the hologram," he declared. "She says she must speak to you. It's urgent."
"Hello, Ambassador," Sebastian greeted as he closed the door. "What can I do for you?"
"Your Grace," Sabe nodded respectfully. "I wish to bring to your attention a certain matter that came to my notice two days ago. However, I could not contact you earlier due to unforeseen circumstances."
"Oh?" Sebastian sat behind his desk.
"At a recent social gathering, I talked with Ellia Creelhad. Her husband, Dyans, holds the esteemed position of Chief Engineer at the Corellian Engineering Corporation. She informed me she had heard an interesting rumor. It was you hoped to court Princess Biala, the daughter of the Queen Mother.
Sebastian flinched. What started as an off-the-cuff lousy joke had been made public. "I assure you I would never entertain the thought of doing something so shameless," he replied, shaken.
"There's no need to explain; I know you would never do anything as underhanded as that," Sabe acknowledged.
"Where did she hear such an outrageous story?"
"She attended a party the week before—one of the guests, Chavi Dermain, told a story of how you would ask the Princess to be your consort at the Ball. Ellia asked how she knew this. Chavi laughed and said she had a well-placed source inside the Embassy."
Sebastian felt a jolt in his stomach. Could there be a spy in the Embassy?
"Chavi might have been lying," Sabe said. "But I thought you should know."
"Thank you for telling me," he said quietly.
"Good day, Your Grace."
After the call, Sebastian took a moment to think. This was not an isolated incident. He also recalled times when unexpected media members had shown up at events. Wanting to address the situation, Sebastian activated the holo-net and saw Lydia Guillon, head of Intelligence.
"Your Grace," she said.
"Madame Guillon," Sebastian said, "I need to talk to you privately."
"We can meet now if that's possible."
"I'll be there soon."
Lydia carefully recorded every detail as Sebastian confided in her. "Do you have any suspicions?" she asked. "Maybe a disgruntled employee or servant?"
Sebastian hesitated before saying, "I don't know. I want you to investigate everyone, from my staff to the servants."
"All the staff?" Lydia asked.
"Yes," Sebastian confirmed.
"Does this apply to junior and senior staff members, including Bek Kohle and Marcus Krille?"
Sebastian pondered his father's advice: "Certain details should remain private until you have a better understanding," his father had wisely said.
Sebastian expressed, "I want to avoid any favoritism, and confidentiality is crucial. You will report directly to me."
Lydia nodded in agreement. "Rest assured, your concerns are understood. My team is known for their discretion and exceptional skills. I will initiate the investigation promptly."
Later that evening, Sebastian and Marcus sat quietly in the library as Wentz recounted the incident between Luke and Mara. "I was surprised Miss Jade and Master Skywalker in such an ill-tempered quarrel," he added at the end of his story.
"Interesting," Sebastian muttered. "Thank you, Wentz. That will be all." He waited until the servant left the room. "What do you think?"
"It seems like there is more to their relationship than just the typical teacher-student dynamic," Marcus observed as he poured two glasses of wine. He handed one to his friend and sat down, ready to discuss the situation.
"Why do you say that?" Sebastian asked.
"Luke Skywalker may be a great Jedi Master," Marcus swirled the liquid in his glass. "But when it came to women, he is a total failure," he said, taking a drink.
"Really?" Sebastian's eyes widened. "I find that very hard to believe. I wonder what Kohle would say about this. Unfortunately, Kohle isn't here, but I won't bother him while he's spending time with his family."
"Absolutely," Marcus said, his eyes filled with concern. However, he was inwardly pleased with the circumstances. Kohle would be gone for a few days to visit his family, giving him time to influence his friend.
"Strange. I don't recall reading anything about Skywalker's personal life in the dossier," Sebastian recalled.
Marcus paused. Chavi had provided him with detailed information about the Jedi's romantic relationships, but he needed to be cautious about what and how much he revealed.
"It happens that I met someone who lived on Coruscant when Skywalker's most public romantic relationship was fodder for gossip."
"Oh?" Sebastian lifted an eyebrow.
""Absolutely," Marcus affirmed with a smile and nod. "I had dinner with a friend, Grice Anes, and his companion, Iellax Haruss. Our conversation turned to Skywalker. Iellax mentioned his tumultuous relationship with Callista Ming, a once-powerful Jedi. She became increasingly self-centered, leading to friction with Skywalker and jealousy towards his family and friends, notably Mara Jade. The clashes between Callista and Mara were intense, and it all culminated in Callista leaving Skywalker at the altar, which took a toll on him."
"Interesting," Sebastian muttered. He turned his head to the side. "It takes time to get over rejection," his voice was dull and distant. He knew how Luke left. Sebastian furrowed his brow. "How does Miss Haluss know this?"
"She," Marcus paused as his mind scrambled for a logical answer. "She was a temp in the administrative office in the Senate. It was the topic of gossip for months. Everyone in the Senate was talking about it, not around Senator Organa-Solo."
"Miss Jade is still a very close friend to Senator Organa-Solo," Marcus continued. "Not to mention the Solo children. However, her interactions with Master Skywalker are often contentious, resembling the witnessed altercation involving Wentz."
"Oh," Sebastian's voice trailed off. Their relationship went beyond that of a student and teacher. Why did he feel the sting of that possibility?
"I have an idea," Marcus snapped his fingers. "Why not ask her to be your consort at the ball? "
"No," Sebastian waved his hand back and forth. "I'm sure she has other plans."
"How do you know?" Marcus leaned forward in his chair.
Sebastian started to answer, but Marcus cut him off. "Think about it. You haven't seen each other in years."
"That's true," his voice trailed off.
"It would be amazing," Marcus exclaimed, "to have two old friends who haven't seen each other in years attend the ball together." He lowered his voice to almost a whisper. "You could spend some time catching up with each other." Marcus snapped his fingers. "I have a great idea. I could arrange a tour of the Jedi Academy here on Coruscant. You can ask her then."
"I don't think," his voice trailed off.
"You're busy for the next week," Marcus said. "I could schedule some time after that."
Sebastian wanted to visit the Academy, but he wasn't sure if there could be anything more to their friendship. "It's short notice."
E-One M-Two entered the room. "Excuse me, sir, the air limo with the prince and his guests has entered the embassy grounds."
"Thank you," Sebastian nodded to Marcus. "Set up the visit. Invite Raisa and her two assistants. She expressed interest in visiting the Academy. However," his tone changed from friendly to harsh. "I want the visit kept private. Understand?"
"Yes," Marcus nodded.
"Let's go greet our guests."
Marcus followed Sebastian out of the room, disappointed he couldn't tell Chavi about the visit. But he was determined to help his friend and Mara get together, securing his place as Sebastian's chief advisor.