Author's Note: Dearest readers, I hope you enjoy today's chapter. This story means a lot to me and my mental health. It's very near and dear to my heart and therefore I will protect it. I'd like to take a moment to address someone who has been reviewing my story since the beginning. I ignored them for over a year but no more. I don't know who they are because they review as a guest. At this point, I wish they'd create an account so I could directly message them. All they've done is repeatedly review about disliking the fact that Anna and Elsa are siblings, ranging from simple sentences to entire paragraph explanations. The fact that they have done this for the majority of my chapters makes me question why they are even reading Frozen fanfiction to begin with. So to this person...if you are reading this. Just stop. You're not funny. You're not making a statement. In case you haven't noticed sixty-five chapters in, my story isn't changing. Anna and Elsa are sisters in canon and they are sisters in "The Frozen Force." If you strongly dislike the fact that Anna and Elsa are sisters, as you've told me nearly 60+ times now...I have some options for you. You can either make your fanfiction where they aren't sisters or stop reading this Frozen fanfiction. Your reviews will never see the light of day on this story. This is my official call for you to stop reviewing and leave me alone. Thank you.

Chapter: 65 The Bridge

"The noblest peacekeeper strives for equity, not equality."

Foreign tensions on the rise! A Republic spy has been captured on the neutral planet of Avinaria. With Anti-Republic sentiment already stirring among her people, President Kestri must choose between remaining neutral or declaring a war of her own. In order to preserve the peace, the Jedi Council has dispatched Elsa Dellian to Avinaria. While conflicts spark, the last thing Elsa expected was the arrival of Count Dooku.

Elsa had experienced the Dark Side of the Force in many forms. She'd felt its frigid lure on Scarif when she faced the demons of Blúm Island. It had genuinely frightened her as she dueled Asajj Ventress. It had even came for her during a training exercise. But when Elsa looked upon Count Dooku himself, the essence of the Dark Side felt stronger than ever before. Its daunting pull was a heaviness like no other and caused her body to tremble involuntarily. What was most unsettling about the former Jedi, was how eerily calm he was. Dooku didn't even seem fazed by the neutral participants nor by a Republic presence. It was if he knew his standing and that alone was enough. His signature look of superiority commanded the room and drew all eyes to him. Elsa and Frost glanced at each other, realizing that the Republic's greatest enemy was only several feet away.

"You are right to be wary of the Galactic Republic, President Kestri." Count Dooku said. "It is a melting pot of corporate corruption. Ravenous businesses are just waiting to plunder your world for its resources at any given moment. You witnessed such horrendous beginnings shortly before your secession."

Elsa wanted to rebuke his statements, but she feared how that would make the Republic look. She also understood that he wasn't necessarily wrong and that she'd experienced her government's corruption firsthand.

"And what about the Separatists?" Kestri asked. "Would they not do the same to our planet?"

Dooku gently shook his head. "The Confederacy would merely protect all which the Republic would strip away," he said. "It is this safeguarded freedom that has rallied so many systems under our banner. Avinaria can join this movement instead of standing alone."

"Madam President," Ryx chirped. "If I may...our neutrality has served us well."

"Well enough to let us get spied on," Kestri snarked.

"If you were a Separatist-controlled world, the Republic wouldn't dare." Dooku assured.

"They wouldn't," Ryx intoned. "Instead, they'd invade. With respect, Madam President...Joining the Separatists would only solidify bringing the war to Avinaria."

"Open your eyes, Senator Finc." Kestri cawed. "Neutral or not, the war's already here." She jabbed her beak towards Elsa and Frost. "Their Republic has seen to that."

"The Republic might've done this, but not the Jedi Order." Elsa reiterated. "You might not be able to see it, but there is a difference. I don't want Avinaria to get dragged into this war either. If it was up to me, I'd broker a treaty with the Separatists right now."

"Why don't you?" Kestri scoffed. "Their leader is right here. Surely that warrants some sort of discussion."

Elsa swallowed hard and felt her body stiffen. Her knees buckled as Dooku raised a time-faded brow. He was curious to see what she'd say and patiently awaited a response. "I-...well," Elsa muttered and strengthened herself with a cough. "Why not? Count Dooku," she proposed with a wavering tone. "May we speak in private?"

Dooku knitted his brows and admired her boldness. "We may," he said and gestured to the doors behind them.

Elsa started to follow him until Frost snatched her arm. "What?" she whispered to him.

"What do you mean 'what'?" the commander blurted. "With all due respect, there's no way I'm leaving you alone with him."

"Relax," Dooku insisted. "Surely we can all be hospitable here. Your bodyguard can walk with mine." As the doors opened, an IG-100 MagnaGuard stomped into view. A powered down electrostaff clunked at its side while a pair of yellow photoreceptors scanned its environment. It stared down Frost as Dooku and Elsa stepped out into the presidential garden. Thin, tan-bricked paths led deep into a courtyard of lush vegetation. Colossal orchids blossomed from the upper fences while intricate vines wrapped around several fountains.

"Avinaria is such a beautiful planet," Dooku spoke over the trickling of fountain water. "The Force is so deeply woven into the living world. You can feel its energy surging through every plant here. I couldn't imagine the decimation of it all." Dooku huffed and shook his head. "The fires of industry ravaging the land. Forests in flames, all in the name of profit. You realize that this is what your Republic would do if given the chance?"

Elsa sighed. "I wouldn't put it past them," she confessed. "But I've also heard of the refugee crisis."

"You're not helping your case, young Jedi." Dooku remarked. "The Republic's handling of its refugees has only made its citizens lose greater faith in democracy."

"But you're missing the point," Elsa said. "Why are there refugees in the first place? The majority of them are coming from Separatist worlds. I also find it interesting how you yourself described that Avinaria would be a Separatist-controlled world. Freedom and control are very different things."

"Sometimes control is necessary to preserve freedom," Dooku defended.

"Now you sound like a member of the Republic," Elsa countered. "We're both trying to secure safety in the galaxy, but somewhere along the line...we've lost an aspect of common ground."

"If you're searching for misdeeds-" Dooku began. "-your Republic-"

"Isn't responsible for everything," Elsa snapped. "Now I know it isn't perfect, but the Republic didn't kidnap and torture my sister. You did that."

Dooku seemed unmoved by Elsa's words. "Whatever anger and power your sister channeled was present long before I got my hands on her. You blame me for the forgeries of your government and council. Do not forget, I too was once a slave to both before I reached an age of reason."

"How can you carry out the will of the Dark Side so freely?" Elsa asked. "The stories I'd heard considered you to be one of the greatest masters. But now look at you."

Dooku chuckled. "You still view the Dark Side as an indulgence of the weak," he said. "Good to see the Order is still forcing such a strict doctrine upon its youth. Thinking as you do...acting as you are...you'll never fully step into your power."

"I feel sorry for you," Elsa said. "Really I do. You've lost your way and given in to such a destructive path. You've-" Elsa winced and briefly staggered.

Dooku tilted his head with intrigue and asked, "What is it you feel?" It was as if he precisely knew that her senses were becoming overwhelmed.

"Grief," Elsa defined. "Sorrow. Even...guilt?"

The Sith appeared genuinely impressed by her senses. "Not just anyone can look past one's emotional barriers," he said.

Elsa moved past his compliment and tried to delve deeper into her senses. "Do you regret leaving the Order?"

"No," Dooku said. "It was liberating actually. But like the planet we tread on now, it matters not who or where you are. The losses of this war shall find you." As Elsa strived for a deeper connection, she sensed another familiar link. It felt as though she was battling his assassin on Scarif and those emotions manifested into a single word.

"Ventress," Elsa uttered. Dooku's lips parted in astonishment as he glared at Elsa. "She's gone, isn't she?"

"The casualties of war," Dooku murmured and swiftly changed the subject. "You must realize that your presence here is pointless. President Kestri's attitude towards the Republic is one that I've seen on countless planets. People will no longer have their rights infringed upon and so they come to me."

"And find themselves in the decadence of war," Elsa added. "Count Dooku, I beseech you. I know that you seek to liberate this world, but Avinaria must remain neutral. Ventress won't be the last to die and a conflict here will kill thousands...millions more."

"You truly are acting in their best interests," Dooku realized. "How...peculiar. Nevertheless, you have nothing to bargain with. The president already distrusts the Republic and will never hand the spy over. It's only a matter of time before war is declared."

"But we can stop it," Elsa asserted. "It's not too late for them...nor is it too late for you." Elsa extended a hand towards Dooku and his MagnaGuard prepared to lunge. Before the droid could, Frost shoved it back and the two engaged in a ferocious standoff. Dooku glared at Elsa's empty palm as she continued. "You can do right by Ventress and all whom we've both lost. Join me and help make this right."

The count simpered before breaking out into a fit of deep laughter. "Spoken like a Jedi Consular no doubt," he said. "I've witnessed a great many things since I've left the Order, but I cannot recall when the last Jedi tried to 'bring me back'. It's become an archaic art, really. To look upon a follower of the Dark Side and think they can be saved. To believe and advocate for such a salvation when facing insurmountable odds." Dooku sighed. "Your naivety is moving, Elsa. Perhaps the Order has some merit if there are still Jedi such as yourself. But your hopeless ignorance blinds you nonetheless."

"If I'm so blind," Elsa proposed. "Why don't you show me another way?" Dooku's brows furrowed. He expected Elsa to counter him, not inquire for more. "We don't have to be enemies," she persisted. "I'll meet you halfway if you're willing to step with me."

"You dream, Jedi." Dooku scoffed.

"But why?" Elsa dared to challenge him. "Are you not the leader of the Separatists? Are you not behind all of this? People answer to you just as the Republic answers to Chancellor Palpatine. We have a chance here, Count Dooku. Resolving this situation could usher in the end of the war. Put aside all that's happened. At least for now! We can cross those bridges in time but we'll go nowhere if you don't budge."

Dooku's nostrils flared as he exhaled deeply. "One day," he said and Elsa tilted her head. "You speak with wisdom beyond your years. And it's earned you one day to save your spy. Should you fail, I will return to resume negotiations with President Kestri."

Elsa sulked as Dooku beckoned his droid over. It backed away from Frost and marched alongside its master. "I'm sorry," Elsa said and brought Dooku to a halt. "For your loss. Ventress carried out many crimes...some even against my sister. But she was still a person. My condolences, count."

Dooku was initially at a loss for words. He was beyond befuddled by her comments and ultimately mumbled, "Thank you." He and his MagnaGuard departed under the setting sun.

"I hope you know you just let the Republic's most wanted man stroll right past you," Frost said.

"I won't tell if you won't," she murmured as they returned to the president's office.

"What a surprise," President Kestri squawked as the duo entered. "Let me guess...the negotiations were short or nonexistent."

"Count Dooku has granted me one day to negotiate freely," Elsa explained. "I understand night is upon us, but perhaps we can establish a meeting over the spy tomorrow."

Kestri huffed. "So I can tell you 'no' again? Sure. I'll scramble an escort back to your vessel because no Avinarian hotel will take you-"

"Actually, Madam President." Ryx suggested. "I can take them for the night."

Kestri's feathers ruffled as she leered at him. "I beg your pardon, Senator Finc?"

"They can stay as my guests," Ryx insisted.

"If word gets out that you harbored Republic minions in your home..."

"Well word won't get out," Ryx assured. "It's not like I'm gonna have a cookout in their honor."

"I hope you know what you're doing," the president grumbled as Ryx ushered Elsa and Frost away.

"Me too," he whispered under his breath.


As night descended over Tristis, Ryx's personal airspeeder soared towards an illustrious treehouse. It pulled in to a secluded garage as a BD-3000 luxury droid hustled over. Ryx popped out before she could open his door. "Mr. Finc," she greeted. "Are you alright?"

"Fine, Minerva," he assured. "But we have some guests I need you to take care of."

He gestured to the other doors and Minerva went to open them. Her blue photoreceptors brightened in astonishment once she noticed who was in the backseat. "By the maker," she gasped. "Is that who I think it is?"

Elsa smiled softly and took the droid's hand. "Hello Minerva," she greeted. "It's been quite some time, hasn't it?"

"I'll say," Minerva computed. "My goodness you've grown. And who's this?"

"This is Commander Frost," Elsa introduced.

"Ma'am," Frost nodded.

"Oh my," Minerva teased as her photoreceptors flickered. "I've never been called a ma'am before. May I take your helmet, commander?"

Frost was a flustered mess until Elsa nodded in approval. "We're safe here," she assured him.

Frost sighed and removed his helmet. He rubbed his clean shaven face and hoped he looked presentable enough. He and Elsa followed Minerva down a cozy corridor. Ryx had already gone ahead and could be heard conversing with a female voice. As the door slid open, Elsa glimpsed a pair of plum-feathered wings draped over Ryx's shoulders.

"Here they are now," the senator said and refused to part with his wife. "Darling, this is Jedi Elsa Dellian and Clone Commander Frost."

Elsa figured it would be awkward to say she already knew the names of Ryx's wife and child. After all, she'd studied them while researching his life in the Jedi Archives. Times had been so different then and Elsa couldn't help but feel grateful for remaining loyal to Ryx's interests. Had she sided with Chuza or even Yelena back then, the senator might not have agreed to help her now.

"Well, young lady," Ryx's wife said. "Take pride in the fact that you're the only Jedi my husband's ever praised. I'm Idrial and it's an honor to have such a respectable Jedi in our home. I can only hope everyone will be on their best behavior." She glared at a wide-eyed chick peeking from behind the doorway. "Vona," she beckoned. "It's rude to stare."

The child's plumage resembled that of her mother's. "Sorry Mom," she mumbled and hobbled into the room. "H-hi," she uttered and shyly waved.

Elsa and Frost waved back while pans clinked on the stove. "You're just in time for dinner," Idrial said. "Minerva, do you mind showing our guests to the table?"

"Right away, Ms. Finc," the droid said. She guided Elsa and Frost to their seats while Vona sat across from them.

The chick's eyes darted towards Elsa's belt and she asked, "Is that a real lasersword?" Her question had Frost nearly choking on his water.

"Yes actually," Elsa answered sincerely.

A series of high-pitched chitters and babbles caught the group's attention as Minerva cradled a smaller chick. The dining room's chandelier illuminated its fuzzy, yellow feathers with a flickering glow. "You remember Olgi, don't you?" Ryx asked Elsa. "Then again, she was an egg the last time we'd spoken about her."

Once the platters were served, the family found their places at the table. Although she didn't eat, Ryx even pulled out a chair to include Minerva. Elsa appreciated the value and respect that he showed his droid. Regardless of her mission's outcome, she felt fortunate to have him on her side. "I don't know about you all-" Ryx began. "-but I am starving."

Delectable, smokey aromas drove Elsa and Frost to hoist up the lids on their plates. Their hungry smiles wavered as they observed the...natural entrees prepared for them. "Ummm general?" Frost whispered. "Are those-"

"Yep," Elsa gulped. Her body quivered at the crunch of bugs' exoskeletons against Avinarian beaks. Ryx practically inhaled the first wave of baked critters and was already set for his second helping. "The rest looks like fruit and vegetables," Elsa told Frost. "Just eat around the bugs."

"Copy that," he affirmed.

Idrial prodded Ryx's arm with her fork. He glanced over as she leaned in and whispered, "I told you bugs were a bad idea."

"Relax," the senator insisted with his mouth full. "They're probably vegetarians."

Elsa carefully scooped a section of fruit out and looked to Ryx. "Do you have any idea where they're keeping the spy?" she asked.

"A person of extreme interest like that?" Ryx inquired while munching on his meal. "She'd undoubtedly be in the Tristis Military Base under heavy guard. You're not considering a breakout, are you?"

Elsa shook her head. "The goal is to mend relations, not sever them further. I promise you that I don't want to bring war to Avinaria. But now I fear that your neutrality has been put at even greater risk with Dooku's involvement."

"What's a Dooku?" Vona asked.

"Another featherless man who thinks he knows what's best for us," Idrial told her.

Their child pouted. "Well why won't featherless people just let us pick for ourselves?"

"Unfortunately it's never that simple, sweetheart." Ryx said. "The galaxy's full of bullies."

"Respectfully," Frost spoke up. "We're here to stop these bullies you speak of." The clone glowered as Ryx chuckled. "What?"

"Believe it or not, soldier-" Ryx began. "-before Avinaria seceded from the Republic, your brothers weren't the nicest folks around here." Although initially offended, Frost took a moment to compose himself and hear the senator out. "The Republic stuck around long after aiding us with our post-civil war reconstruction. We didn't notice the impacts until simple trade proposals became 'extreme mining efforts.' The Republic had little disregard for our natural ecosystems and customs. When our people refused to move, it wasn't uncommon for clone troopers to up the intimidation factor."

"Of course those stories never reached the Galactic Senate or public eye though," Idrial added. "Those in power have a funny way of making sure the spotlight stays on them instead."

"Please understand," Ryx implored Frost. "I don't directly blame you for what happened. But you need to see that this is all about perspective. You may see yourself as a hero, but how do your opponents see you? More importantly...why do they see you like that? There's a disconnect between civilians and faceless, armored troopers." Ryx pointed towards Frost's helmet on the nearby rack. "People can't trust what's behind that cold and unfeeling visor."

"Easy there," Frost retorted. "You're talking about men. Loyal soldiers who are just following orders."

"That's a dangerous phrase," Ryx lamented. "I've seen rights trampled by people 'just following orders'."

Frost exhaled frustratedly and glanced at Elsa. "I'm sorry," he huffed. "I-...I need a moment."

He rose from the table and stepped out into the living room. The resulting awkward silence was only broken by baby Olgi's innocent babbling. "Frost is a good man," Elsa told Ryx. "And he believes the same of all his fellow clones."

"I didn't mean to insult him," Ryx confessed and looked to his wife for reassurance. "I just wanted to open his eyes to the bigger picture."

"Maybe it would help if the commander got to know the real you," Idrial proposed. She wrapped a comforting wing around him and said, "Even the parts you aren't proud of."

Ryx nodded and rose from the table. "Come with me," he told Elsa and stood up. As they departed, the rest of his family was left with Frost's helmet to eerily watch over them. Although it was merely a piece of headgear, the unsettling feeling it prompted caused Idrial move it. She turned the helmet towards the wall so its dark visor wouldn't glare at her family.

Frost stood in the living room, slowing his breaths and trying to recollect his thoughts. "Commander," Ryx beckoned alongside Elsa. "I'd like to show you something. From one soldier to another." Frost's brows raised in astonishment as he followed the duo upstairs. "You'll find that some of the biggest pacifists have seen the worst of war," Ryx explained. "I don't want you to think that I'm some politician sticking his head in matters he could never understand." As Ryx took a deep breath, Elsa could sense his rising anxiety. He typed in a code on a wall-mounted panel and unlocked his personal storage room. He sighed heavily before taking his first step inside. Dusty, plasteel containers lined the walls as he ran his feathered digits across their lids.

"You fight alongside your brothers," Ryx remarked. "I fought against mine. The Avinarian Civil War nearly destroyed our planet. I was drafted to fight for a cause based solely on the region I lived in. Eighteen years of age and oblivious to the bigger picture, there was only one rule: The other side wants to kill you so kill them first." Ryx knelt before a tattered banner on the wall. "So many Avinarians died in a struggle for power that many survivors still don't understand. And after years of bloodshed, we just made up. Treaties and truces were formed while the dead slowly faded away from memory." Ryx hung his head in shame. "At least for those who didn't fight. For men like me, I'll never forget the sights and sounds. The amount of lifeless bodies I had to look upon." Ryx sighed and gestured to Frost. "Like so many young fools, I was 'just following orders' too. I know it isn't easy to see when you're a soldier, but you've got to understand that you still have free will. And there's no shame in questioning something before the wrong people die." Ryx tapped on one of the containers and sulked. "Maybe if more Avinarians had done that, our civil war would've ended sooner." He scoffed and kicked the container. "The killing ends and those in suits give you shiny medals. They call you a hero when all you did was fight to stay alive. The medal's more for them though. Trust me...as a politician, I see that now. It's as useless as my-"

Ryx paused and Elsa knitted her brows. "What?" she asked.

"My uniform," the Avinarian uttered in realization. "That's it." He motioned a wing towards the container at his feet. "If there's one thing Avinaria holds dear to them, it's military excellence...even if the history behind it is a mess. What if I could use my veteran status to get you clearance into the Tristis Military Base? Once inside, we can try and get you at least a conversation with the spy."

"President Kestri won't budge unless we have more information to work with," Elsa concurred. "So it's worth a shot!"

"We can leave at dawn tomorrow," Ryx affirmed. "Until then, I'll have Minerva set up the guest bedrooms for you both. Do you need more food? Perhaps a vegetarian option?" Having barely eaten on account of the bugs, Frost and Elsa eagerly nodded.


Even avoiding the consumption of such creatures wouldn't stop the crickets from chirping outside. Stressed and sleepless, Elsa rolled over in bed and whispered towards the window. "Careful little ones," she jested. "Ryx and his family might eat you next." Her humor was short-lived as she sunk into her pillow. Her unbraided, long tresses flowed in waves of platinum blonde. "One day to mend relations and the fates of millions hang are at stake," Elsa told herself. "This is fine."

"Having doubts?" Evara questioned.

"One or two. I feel like I'm balancing explosives on a tightrope...over fire."

"Whether they see it or not, Avinaria looks to you for guidance. As does the Republic. The Jedi have always been pillars of strength for this galaxy."

"But that's the problem, Evara." Elsa said. "People don't see that. Some aren't even willing to listen. And it never ends well when you try to make someone understand. What was I even thinking trying to negotiate with Count Dooku? If anyone found out about that, they'd-"

"You fought for peace," Evara insisted.

"Fighting for peace," Elsa chuckled. "Always a fun paradox. I would think that as a wraith of the Light Side, you of all would be furious with me."

"Elsa," Evara intoned. "Your worry alone exemplifies how far the Jedi Order has lost its way. The prevalence of light doesn't always mean the eradication of darkness. Dooku was once a child of the Light Side and you were brave enough to try reaching him. But some people create their own prisons and we can only do so much."

"What if the same is true for President Kestri?" Elsa fretted. "What if I can't resolve this and all falls to darkness?"

"What if it does?" Evara concurred. "Would you try any less to save it under Dooku's control? No matter what happens, you will never give up on those around you. I'm just asking you to have that same faith in yourself."

Elsa nodded while staring up at the ceiling. "I'll try," she said. "And Evara-"

"Yes, Elsa?"

"Thanks for being so patient with me."

"The Wraiths of the Force began their mission thousands of years ago," Evara assured. "Patience is our specialty."

Elsa smiled gently until a sudden ruckus caught her attention. She bolted up after hearing Frost's frantic murmurs. Prepared for any threat, Elsa snatched her lightsaber from the nightstand and shuffled towards the adjacent bedroom. Because her sleeping robes were fitted for Avinarian guests, her sleeves were extremely baggy to accommodate wings. They flopped about as she barged into Frost's room and found him flailing.

"Commander?" she whispered sharply. Sweat coated Frost's topless, moonlit body. His brows furrowed as he alternated between grunts and whimpers. She reached for his shoulder and gently shook him. "Frost! Wake up!"

The commander bolted upright with a furious gasp. Elsa's disheveled locks bounced as she impulsively shuddered back. His wild, yet frightened eyes slowly turned to her. "Hey," Elsa spoke soothingly. "It's alright. You're safe. You were having a nightmare."

A single tear fled Frost's eye and he rubbed his temples. "I-...I'm sorry to have disturbed you," he mumbled.

"I was just worried about you," Elsa replied. She helped lift the blanket back over his body and covered him up. Frost accepted her care and blankly stared at the ceiling. She grew increasingly concerned when he started shaking his head. "Do you...want to talk about it?" He slowly glanced over as she continued. "Sometimes dreams and nightmares have deeper meanings to them. We Jedi discuss them all the time. Trust me, I once had a dream which led me to an actual temple on Rhen Var."

"But don't you have to have the Force for dreams to mean something?" Frost asked.

"While levels vary, the Force flows through all living things." Elsa explained.

"Then I hope to the Force that my nightmare means nothing," Frost said. Elsa sat at his bedside as he recounted the terror. "I was with my brothers," he said. "Rip...Doubles...a few others. They were all so loyal to me. We all knew what had to be done."

"And what was that?" Elsa queried.

Frost grimaced and spat out one word. "Kill." He shut his eyes tightly as if denying the horrid experience. "Kill by all and any means. We just...had to. We were all so angry...and afraid. Afraid that if we didn't kill, our lives would be taken instead. The troops were looking to me for answers and I couldn't let them down." Frost's breaths quickened. "We didn't have to kill. We needed to kill. I needed to follow orders. Good soldiers follow-"

"Frost," Elsa asked. "Who was it that you needed to kill?"

His eyes reddened as he looked up at her. "I-...I don't know. I feel the closeness of it all. The fury...the guilt. Yet I never see who the target is."

"Wait. Never?" Elsa inquired.

"This isn't the first nightmare," Frost confessed. "I'm tortured by the same one over and over." He turned to Elsa and pleaded, "I don't want to kill anyone. Not like this. I'm so sorry, general. I don't know what's-"

"Hey...hey," Elsa answered calmly. She took his hand in hers and smiled reassuringly. "Look at me, Frost." His weary eyes listed up towards her tranquil, blue gaze. "I promise that I won't let you kill anyone. We have to watch each other's backs, so I've got yours. Okay?"

Frost gulped and forced a smile. "Yeah," he uttered while trying to calm down.

"It's important to acknowledge our feelings instead of casting them aside," Elsa told him. "Regardless of whether they're good or bad." As she said such, she realized that she was speaking against the Jedi Code in favor of emotion. Still, she couldn't help but recall how much better she'd felt after crying with Ryx long ago. If she could grant Frost a similar solace, that would be enough for her.

"I don't think I'm gonna get any more sleep," Frost huffed.

"That's alright," Elsa said. "I'm pretty awake myself. Why don't I show you a thing or two about meditation? It could ease your stress levels."

Frost simpered and said, "I'll give it a shot."

Elsa nodded and sat upright in bed with him. "Okay, so first let's close our eyes and take a deep breath in. As we sink further into relaxation-" Elsa yawned. "We-


A swift knock at the door had Elsa gasping herself awake. "What?" she blurted. "Who?"

"Good morning, general." Frost called from the doorway.

"Frost...what happened?"

"You fell asleep as soon as we started meditating. You said you were awake but your tired body had other plans, so I let you sleep." He approached with a tray of assorted fruits. "Senator Finc will be taking us to the military base soon, so I figured you'd want to get your strength up."

"Thanks," Elsa said. "Sorry meditation didn't work out last night. How are you feeling?"

"Oh it's fine and I'm fine. Really."

After munching on several fruits, Elsa tied her hair back into a bun and re-equiped her robes. She rummaged through her satchel to make sure she had everything. Running her fingers over Porgen's domed head always brought a smile to her face. Once the duo was geared up, they met Ryx in his garage and took off.

The flight to Tristis Military Base was scenic and surreal. Elsa might've further enjoyed the views had she not been stressed out of her mind. She glanced at Ryx as he piloted them towards the installation. She deduced that his stern demeanor had something to do with wearing his old uniform. "Thank you for doing this," she said. "I know it can't be easy."

"Any difficulty is worth the pursuit of peace," Ryx replied. "Just be grateful that I fought for the winning side. If I had the losing team's uniform, I might as well be wearing a target." His dark humor went unnoticed as they landed on a secured platform. A squad of glowering, blue-bereted soldiers marched over to inspect the vehicle. Ryx's appearance had them relaxing...until they saw Frost and Elsa.

"What are they doing here?" the commanding officer cawed.

"They're with me," Ryx assured.

"That much is clear."

"Unruffle your feathers, will you?" Ryx griped. "The Jedi wishes to see the prisoner. She has neutral jurisdiction and is permitted to assess our treatment." The officer's eyes narrowed. "Unless she should be concerned..."

"Why are you taking her side?" the officer growled. "Are you forgetting who spied on who here?"

"Do I need to remind you that our neutrality is at stake?" Ryx intoned. "Let us see the prisoner or this only gets worse."

"Fine," the officer scoffed and glared at Elsa. "But only her."

Ryx agreed to the terms while Frost waited by the speeder. As a show of good faith, Elsa started to unclip her lightsaber. The action had soldiers closing in until she spun the hilt and handed her weapon to the officer. "I won't be long," Elsa told Frost as she was escorted into the base. She passed through multiple security checkpoints before being routed through a narrow corridor. Dark, claustrophobia-inducing walls led towards a set of durasteel doors.

"You've got ten minutes," the officer said and opened the doors.

Elsa nodded and stepped into the containment area. There was an eerie heaviness betwixt the silence as she looked to a set of prison bars. A woman lay sprawled out on a rickety, shadowy bed. Her head tilted up as Elsa came into view. Upon noticing her attire, the spy leapt out of bed and dashed for the bars. "I knew they'd send backup!" she rejoiced as the low-hanging light illuminated her face. Elsa deduced that the woman was roughly her age. Her emerald eyes scoured Elsa's belt for an absent lightsaber. "You are a Jedi, right?"

"I am," Elsa responded. "I'm here to help, but I need to know what you know."

"Of course," she eagerly concurred. "I'm Agent Kim of Republic Intelligence."

Elsa raised a skeptical brow. "I didn't know the Republic recruited spies so young."

Kim scowled. "You're one to talk, Jedi. How many warrior children do you have in your temple? I've been running successful ops for the Republic for years. Enough to inspire my codename: Possible.

"But everyone's luck runs out eventually, Kim Possible." Elsa lamented. "Have the Avinarians treated you well?"

"Yes," Kim snapped. "But that isn't important."

"Then what is?" Elsa inquired. "The fact that your actions could spark a war with an otherwise neutral world? Why did the Republic even send you here?"

"To make sure Avinaria wasn't plotting against them. Neutral planets are quiet planets. And a lot can happen in that silence."

Elsa huffed and shook her head. "Avinaria couldn't care less about the Republic."

"I was ordered to come here," Kim defended. "So I did what I was told. Now are you gonna complete the mission or not?" Elsa suspiciously tilted her head as Kim continued. "I mean, surely you aren't here to rescue me. These warbirds won't listen to reason. But the fact that I'm still locked up means my intel is still hidden. She elaborated while Elsa remained confused. "Before the authorities caught me, I downloaded what I could save on to a data-drive. Fleet and troop movements, security grids, module frequencies and coding...It's all on that drive." Kim loosed a heavy sigh. "Look, I know I'm not leaving this planet...but that's a sacrifice I'm willing to make for the Chancellor." Elsa shook her head at the thought of Palpatine glorifying such espionage. "You need to complete the mission," Kim asserted. "Before I was captured, I stashed my bag in the Gillan District's biggest tree. Its hollow trunk wraps around this colossal tower so you can't possibly miss it. Find my bag, recover the data-drive, and return it to Republic Command."

"I'm not here for your mission," Elsa retorted. "I'm here to bring peace to-"

The doors opened as the Avinarian officer squawked, "Times up!"

"Nice cover," Kim winked.

"Wait, no." Elsa whispered. "I mean it. I'm hear to resolve-"

"Hands behind your back," the officer demanded.

Elsa's heart sank. She slowly turned to the officer and narrowed her eyes. "Pardon?"

The officer raised his pistol and cawed, "Now."

Elsa cautiously obliged as the Avinarian snapped a pair of binders on her. He forced her out into the hall and said, "You Republic snakes."

"I don't understand," Elsa said. Her worry only intensified when she saw Ryx in cuffs as well. "Senator!" she called while they were escorted out. "What's going on?"

"I'm not sure," he confessed before a soldier shoved him forward.

They were brought back to the landing platform where several soldiers had Frost at gunpoint. "Get on the ground!" one of the Avinarians screeched.

"Elsa!" Frost yelled when he saw his general handcuffed. "No!"

"We'll get to the bottom of this!" Elsa hollered from beyond the crowd of soldiers. "Don't fight them, Frost!"

The commander knew better and reluctantly let the Avinarians apprehend him. He, Ryx, and Elsa were shoved into a guarded transport and flown across the capital. Sirens could be faintly heard through the aircraft's thick hull. "Ryx..." Elsa whispered in the darkness. "What is this?"

"I don't know," he insisted. "But those alarms outside mean Avinaria's in a state of emergency."

The transport came to a halt and the trio was ushered out of holding. "I thought you two were the only ones here," Ryx said as he was the first to disembark.

"We-" Elsa started to say until she glimpsed an entire battalion of green-armored clone troopers. "-are?" she questioned.

"That's not the 213th," Frost remarked. With their blasters raised, the clones remained at a standstill with Avinarian forces.

"So if they aren't your boys-" Ryx began. "-whose are they?"

Elsa's eyes widened as a familiar, yet distressing essence plagued her senses. A short, grey-feathered Avinarian strutted in alongside his lanky and pale-feathered Padawan. "Don't get intimidated, men." Chuza told his troopers. "My people may look dangerous, but the Republic doesn't bow down to fear." He specifically raised his voice when referring to his government and glared at the Avinarians.

"Oh you've got to be kidding me," Ryx groaned as a whirlwind of memories returned to him. "This guy?"

"Unfortunately," Elsa murmured in disbelief. "I don't understand. The council assigned the task of diplomacy to me."

Chuza scoffed when he noticed Ryx, Elsa, and Frost in cuffs. "Well well," he said. "It appears young Dellian has failed to keep the peace. What a surprise."

"Master Chuza!" Elsa hollered while wriggling in her restrains. "Do you not see what you've done? You've plunged Avinaria into a state of emergency by landing troops! Why are you even here?"

Chuza ignored her accusations and said, "Gav and I are here to do what must be done. Not cost the Republic even more."

"Forget the spy!" Elsa snapped. "You'll be the ones to start a war!"

"She's right," Frost added and tried to appeal to his fellow clones. "Stand down, brothers."

A set of heavy stomps sounded amidst the crowd of plastoid armor. A vibrantly green command kama blew in the wind as Captain Talon marched over. With a pair of clenched, cybernetic fists, he growled towards the commander. "The Flying 54th doesn't take orders from you," he decreed.

"Quite right, captain." Chuza affirmed. "They didn't shoot us out of the sky and they won't shoot us now. Have the men stand their ground." Talon nodded as his troops kept up their guard.

"This is a disaster," Frost lamented. "What do we do?" Elsa gulped and bit her lip. "General?" Frost worried while she tried to formulate a plan.

The situation only worsened as President Kestri herself arrived on scene. Chief Poma and several secret service agents escorted her towards the confrontation. "What is the meaning of this?" she squawked.

"Madam President," Chuza greeted. "Kindly order your troops to stand down and we can begin negotiations."

"Who do you think you are?" Kestri scolded while Elsa sulked behind them. "You set foot on our world and think you can order us around."

"Respectfully," Chuza hooted. "The Republic is the highest and most civil authority in the galaxy. It must be treated as such."

"Speak for yourself because we aren't budging," Kestri defended and leered at Elsa. "Was this your plan all along? To lower our guards so your reinforcements could arrive?"

"No!" Elsa blurted. "I swear to you, Madam President. I had no idea that they were coming."

"The same way you were clueless about a spy you came to negotiate for," Kestri scoffed. "I've had enough of the Republic's lies. I want all of you off of my planet effective immediately. I will view any failure to comply as an act of war."

"I thought we were preventing a war," Gav told Chuza.

His old master grinded his beak and stared Kestri down. "Patience, Padawan," he whispered. "She's likely bluffing." He raised his voice to the president and declared, "We shall withdraw once our agent has been safely returned to us. As a fellow Avinarian, you must honor my-"

"I don't have to honor anything," Kestri refuted. "The ways of old Avinaria are history and I will not tolerate an occupancy of any sort."

"Madam President, be reasonable." Chuza implored.

"I have been beyond reasonable with you people. Just when one Jedi tries to talk things over, a battalion shows up at my doorstep. No more! Be gone or it's war."

"It'd be a war you couldn't win," Gav added.

"Is that a threat, boy?" Kestri cawed.

"Madam President!" Elsa spoke up from beyond the crowd. "I apologize on behalf of the Republic and the Jedi Order. Master Chuza is in the wrong, but war isn't the answer. Please, let me find a diplomatic solution."

Kestri ignored her pleas as Ryx whispered to Elsa. "What do you need?" he queried.

"A night at most," she replied.

"Presiden Kestri," Ryx called. "Go through with your plan but let Elsa Dellian stay."

Bewildered heads snapped towards Ryx as Kestri asked, "And why would I ever agree to that?"

Ryx looked at the soldier restraining him. "Let me speak to her," he said. "Please." The soldier reluctantly escorted him towards the president, where he spoke in a hushed tone. "Because you owe me for the successful secession of Avinaria."

"You think that warrants anything?" Kestri scoffed. "What do you see in that Jedi, anyway?"

"She's not like the others, ma'am. And I'd stake my entire political career on that."

"Is that truly how you feel?" Kestri huffed and Ryx nodded. Elsa and Frost watched as the Avinarians continued to chirp amongst each other."Very well," Kestri declared. "Elsa Dellian is to stay the night while all other Republic forces are to leave immediately."

"Thank you," Ryx whispered.

"I'll expect your letter of senatorial resignation in the morning," Kestri muttered.

"What?" Ryx choked.

"You've been a thorn in my side long enough, Finc. This is the last time I do any favors for you."

More Avinarian reinforcements arrived and trained their weapons on the 54th. Meanwhile...Elsa, Frost, and Ryx were uncuffed. "Sir," Captain Talon called to Chuza. "This is no longer a standstill. They've got us surrounded and we'd be wise to pull out."

Chuza sneered at Elsa while accepting his captain's logic. "All troopers," he sighed. "Stand down." The clones lowered their guns and slowly bunched up. "You're making a big mistake, President Kestri." Chuza warned. "You should have been the one to comply."

Their Venator was dispatched to pick them and reminded Elsa to speak with Frost. "I'll contact Admiral Taka to arrange transport to the Deliverance," she said.

"Are you gonna be alright?" Frost worried. "How can you possibly fix this in one night?"

"I've got a plan," Elsa insisted while watching the 54th depart.

"Well this has been a disaster," Gav hissed to Chuza. "We came all this way for nothing!"

"Don't be daft, Padawan." Chuza whispered. "This isn't over yet. We still have a chance to make this right on our terms."

"How?" Gav asked.

"If Elsa's staying, so are you. Wait for us to start boarding the Venator. Once you've found your moment, use the clones as cover and descend to the lower platforms. Whatever young Dellian is up to, follow her and make sure the spy is secured." Gav's heart raced as each responsibility struck him. "Remember your training and don't fail me," Chuza intoned.

Gav nodded discreetly as they ascended up the Venator's ramp. Seemingly endless rows of jet troopers marched up until Gav squeezed between them. His white plumage helped him blend in significantly well as he shuffled through. A flash of his wings caught Elsa's attention as she squinted over to the ramp. She continued observing it until Ryx asked, "Something wrong?"

She snapped out of her suspicious gaze and said, "N-no. Just thought I saw something."

"It looks like it's up to you and I now," Ryx said. "Hopefully you were able to learn something valuable from the captive agent. Commander Frost said you had a plan?"

As Elsa nodded and went over her findings with him, Chuza's Venator ascended back behind the clouds. While it left the atmosphere, Gav remained hidden beneath the lower platforms. He pulled the hood of his robes over his head and disappeared into the shadows.

Stars glistened over the Gillan District. Airspeeders glided over its plaza while vendors closed down their shops. The tallest tree in the district loomed over the streets as a hooded figure approached its base. The hem of her blue robes grazed the brick pathways until she stopped at a nearby tower. A streetlight illuminated part of Elsa's face as she hunched forward. The sound of incoming soldiers had her waving a hand over the tower's locking mechanism. Elsa nervously bit her lip until her abilities bypassed the lock. A green light flashed on the panel and she was able to sneak inside. The doors sealed behind her just as a pair of Avinarian troopers came marching by. They were chuckling over something when one of them paused. His head snapped towards the door and he examined the panel.

"I thought I heard something," the soldier said after realizing it was still locked. He dismissed his suspicions and regrouped with his partner.

Elsa breathed a sigh of relief and continued to ascend through the tower's stairwell. After reaching the rooftop, she immediately made for the nearby tree. Wind whistled through a gaping cavity in its trunk as Elsa peered inside. "That's a long way down," she whispered while popping open her satchel. She powered up her porg droid and set him at the hollow's edge. He immediately squawked in alarm and nearly fell inside. "Easy, Sir Porgen." Elsa whispered. "I need you calm and focused. Agent Possible's bag of intel is stashed somewhere deep inside this tree and it's up to you to retrieve it." The droid worridly beeped until Elsa patted his head. "You can do this. The boosters I gave you will make sure you can fly right up. You know what to do." Porgen nervously nodded and waddled closer to the ledge. With a frightened flutter of his metallic wings, he sprung deep into the darkness.

Elsa's heart sank as her droid's squawks faded further and further down. Minutes seemed to stretch on for hours as she kept watch at the top of the tree. Elsa started pacing across the rooftop until she heard Porgen calling. She lunged towards the hollow and peered down inside. Porgen's oblong photoreceptors glowed amidst the darkness and lit his way back up. Sparks from his miniature boosters kept him soaring upward. As Porgen neared the entrance, Elsa noticed the backpack straps in his feet.

"Thataboy!" Elsa rejoiced with a sharp whisper. "Almost there!" With a final thrust from his boosters, Porgen glided out of the tree and dropped Kim's bag. "Ryx," Elsa called in via comlink. "I have the intel bag." She grinned at Porgen and said, "Well done!"

"Well done indeed," a voice growled and Elsa spun. The rooftop door resealed behind her as a hooded figure stepped forth. His black talons scraped across the duracrete while he lowered his hood. His pale feathers gleamed in the moonlight as he stared her down.

"Gav?" Elsa gasped and clutched the backpack. "But I thought you and Chuza had-...What are you doing here?"

"Making sure you do the right thing," he said.

"Porgen, get behind me." Elsa ordered and the tiny droid waddled back. "I am doing the right thing," she affirmed. "This intel doesn't belong to the Republic. It was stolen from the Avinarians and deserves to be returned to them."

"You haven't learned a thing," Gav scoffed. "Whose side are you even on?"

"There are no sides on the path of peace," Elsa defended. "Agent Possible told me about her stashed intel-"

"So you could finish her mission!" Gav cawed. "The Republic doesn't just spy on anyone without good reason."

"Can you confirm that?" Elsa asked.

Gav grew impatient and stomped closer. She clutched the backpack as he extended a wing. "If you're planning on costing the Republic again, just give me the bag." Gav's eye twitched when Elsa didn't budge. "Elsa, don't make me take it. Hand it over."

She stood her ground and said, "I can't do that, Padawan Riden."

He sneered and clenched a feathered fist. "So that's what this is really about?" he snarled while Elsa raised a brow. "You think because you're a knight now, everyone has to take orders from you. We should all just let 'The Mighty Elsa' handle it. She's the council's pet, after all."

"Dislike me all you want-" Elsa intoned. "But leave your own jealousy out of Avinaria's affairs."

Gav quaked at her words and started to grind his beak. Elsa could sense a surge of anger rising from within him. Such fury was accompanied by a concerning pull. One she'd experienced on Scarif and felt while speaking with Dooku himself. "And what could you possibly know about Avinarian affairs?" he scorned and dropped his cloak. The wind brushed against his form-fitting, dark robes as he unclipped his lightsaber. Elsa's eyes widened when he ignited the green blade.

"Gav," she spoke sternly while eyeing his weapon. "You're not yourself. Let's talk ab-"

"It's always talk, talk, TALK with you!" Gav roared. "If you won't give me the intel, I'll take it myself!" He lunged at her with a ferocious swing of his saber.

Porgen fled while Elsa rolled in the opposite direction. She cradled the backpack as Gav attacked again. "Stay back!" Elsa warned and tried Force-pushing him.

He leapt to evade just in time and laughed. "Your title means nothing. You're still that scared girl who was on the verge of tears in the Senate." His words dragged Elsa back to the fateful day Chuza scolded her for 'losing Avinaria'. "I doubt the stories are true about that temple guard you killed." Elsa winced as she recalled Udo dying in her arms. "Did he fall on his own lightsaber? Did you cheat and use the Force?" Gav swung his saber again as Elsa ducked beneath it. "Fight me, you coward!"

Elsa ignored his belligerent taunts and fled towards a ledge. She contemplated jumping until a certain robotic squawk had her gasping. "P-Porgen?" she stuttered and slowly turned. Her heart raced at the side of Gav holding up her droid. She nervously bit her lip as Porgen squirmed in his grip. "Put him down!"

"Give me the bag," Gav asserted. "Then I'll let your little friend go." His dark eyes were corrupted by a demonic, yellow tone.

"The Dark Side has a hold over him," Evara spoke from within. "Rage is fueling the boy, but it is also his weakness!"

Furious and impatient, Gav shrugged. "Suit yourself," he said and flipped Porgen into the air. The droid didn't have time to activate his boosters as Gav jabbed his saber at him. He was about to strike Porgen when a bright blue blade blocked his attack. Gav turned to see Elsa with her lightsaber extended to him. Their blades crackled against one another as he chuckled. "Well well...so you do have a spine!"

Elsa repulsed as Porgen hopped into her satchel. She fastened Kim's backpack over her shoulders and flourished her blade. "Snap out of it, Gav," she said. "You are stronger than the Dark Side."

"Shut up!" Gav screeched and lunged at her. He repeatedly batted her saber with his. "You sound just like Master Chuza! Control your emotions, Gav. Deep breaths, Gav. I'm tired of you all telling me what I am and what to do!" Elsa remained on the defensive, but Gav's aggressive strikes were weakening her stance. He forced her saber down and elbowed her in the face.

Elsa staggered back and narrowly avoided another strike. She was able to Force-push Gav away and buy her some time. As he dug his talons into the rooftop, Elsa thought back to her memories of Udo Klee.

"If I may offer a suggestion from a Jedi Sentinel's perspective," he had said. Your bladework would improve if you kept your arms closer to your body. You'd get a better swing and have more control over your lightsaber."

Elsa squared her shoulders and kept her blade close. I need to incapacitate Gav, she told herself. It's the only way to free him from this pull! She spun her lightsaber and went on the attack. Gav charged in with twice the ferocity and lunged towards her. While she managed to guard her right shoulder, she didn't anticipate how quickly Gav would attack her left. She couldn't shift her blade in time and was forced to back up. As she did so, Gav pressed his advantage. With a brutal slash, Gav knocked Elsa's lightsaber downward. He then flapped his wings to elevate himself and kicked Elsa in the chest.

His taloned feet knocked the wind out of her and sent her crashing into the rooftop doorway. The impact was enough to unbraid her bun and send her blonde tresses falling in a disheveled mess.

"Thanks for the handling tips," Elsa had told Udo. But I don't have a double-bladed lightsaber."

"Well..." Udo had considered. "Maybe you should."

Gav's offensive was relentless. Elsa started to pick herself off of the ground when he pounced on her back. Like a primitive bird of prey, he dragged her across the floor before pinning her with his talons.

Elsa's bruised and scraped face lay pressed against the duracrete as he held her down. While keeping one foot on her back, the Avinarian used his second foot to squeeze her wrist. His talons tightened their grip until she was forced to relinquish her lightsaber. Its arcetron hilt clacked against the rooftop while Elsa croaked. "Pathetic," Gav cawed. "I was always stronger than you."

"It's...not too late." Elsa murmured.

"What?" he snapped.

"This...isn't you. If you're so strong...let go of the Dark Side."

Gav's grip on Elsa's wrist loosened. His twitching brows relaxed as the yellow tint fled his eyes. "E-...Elsa?" It was as if he'd awakened from a horrendous trance. Unblinded, Gav stepped off of her and deactivated his lightsaber. He dropped his weapon and stared at his trembling, feathered digits. "I...what...oh no. What have I done?" His beak chattered and he tugged at the feathers on his head. "I thought I could control it!" In his panic, he rigorously unclipped the backpack from Elsa's shoulders. "This is your fault! You should've just given me the bag. I just need to get out of here." Gav unzipped the backpack, peered inside, and froze. "It's...empty?"

Gav watched with befuddled eyes as Elsa slowly sat up. "I figured I hadn't seen the last of your master's endeavors," she coughed.

"What did you do?" Gav uttered.

"Not me," she said and gestured to Porgen. "Him." Gav was all the more confused as she continued. "That tree has multiple hollows leading out of it. Once Porgen found the bag, he brought it to Ryx on the street first. That's why he took so long. I was just here to stall you."

Gav gulped. "S-stall me?"

Elsa's comlink chimed and she faintly smiled. "Mission accomplished," Ryx called in.

"Where did...he take the intel?" Gav worried.

"Where it belongs," Elsa affirmed and Gav's eyes widened. He dropped to his knees in disbelief. Not only had he failed and succumbed to the pull again...but he had been bested by Elsa Dellian."

Later that night, an emergency meeting was called at the Tristis Executive Manor. The Avinarian military had the place swarmed as soldiers kept the press at bay. Elsa stood alongside Ryx while President Kestri addressed them. Bacta-laced bandages lined the Jedi's face as she stood tall. "Elsa Dellian," the president said. "I'm no stranger to Ryx over here testing my blood pressure. But you are something else." Kestri sighed. "And it is because of this tenacity of yours...that I owe you my thanks." Elsa faintly smiled as Kestri nodded respectfully. "Through your combined efforts, the stolen intelligence is back where it belongs. I will admit, Master Jedi...I never truly believed you had Avinaria's interests in mind. Perhaps you can forgive me someday."

"You had every right to distrust me," Elsa replied. "The Republic has done nothing to aid your world and my fellow Jedi didn't make the best impression either."

"Now it's my turn to put forth a show of good faith," Kestri decreed. "Not for the Republic, but for a better Avinaria." She gestured to a holding transport as Kim was escorted out. "Take her," she told Elsa. "And may this serve as a lesson to all whom she serves."

"Thank you, Madam President." Elsa said and humbly bowed.

Kestri stepped away while Ryx observed Elsa's wounds. "You wanna tell me the truth about those?" he asked.

She sighed. "I was jumped by some thugs in the Gillan District."

He raised a brow. "I guess not then," he murmured. "It was nice to see you again, Elsa. I do hope things are calmer the next time our paths cross!"

Elsa pulled him into a tender embrace. "As do I, my friend. May the Force be with you."

A Republic gunship landed as Frost and members of the 213th arrived for approved extraction. The commander shuddered after seeing his general in such a state. "Are you alright?" he worried.

"Fine," she assured and patted his armored shoulder. "Ready to go home."

Uncuffed and exhausted, Kim boarded the gunship. "So I go free, but the intel went right back to them?" she muttered. "I failed."

"You didn't fail," Elsa intoned. "You survived. Take this operation of yours as a lesson and a warning. The Republic had no quarrel with Avinaria and used you to start one."

"I was just following orders," Kim defended.

"Sometimes rights get trampled by people 'just following orders'." Frost lectured and Elsa faintly smiled.

Kim was left to contemplate over his words as Elsa spoke to the pilot. "Before we leave, can you take us to the lower platform?" she asked. Although confused, the pilot obliged. Frost was concerned until he saw Gav hiding beneath the main structure. Elsa welcomed him aboard as the gunship hovered. Once the doors sealed, the commander addressed such a surprise.

"What's he doing here?" Frost asked. His helmeted visage darted between Gav's glare and Elsa's wounds. "General?" he worried.

Gav braced for the inevitable accusation until Elsa said, "If it hadn't been for Gav staying behind, I wouldn't have survived getting ambushed by thugs."

"Oh?" Frost inquired as Elsa nodded.

Gav was beyond surprised as the group moved on and she stood beside him. "Why'd you say that?" he whispered. "After everything...why cover for me?"

"Because I believe in second chances," Elsa said. "Regardless of your pull to the Dark Side, you came back. That means something, Gav. Don't live in last night's regret. Use it to grow and become a better Jedi."

Gav sighed. "Spoken like a true Consular," he said. "Thank you...Knight Dellian."


Back on Coruscant, a holotransmission chimed through Chancellor Palpatine's desk. He spun in his chair and answered the call. "Chancellor," a strident Avinarian voice said.

"President Kestri," he greeted. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Your spy has been returned," she said. "You should consider yourself lucky that a Jedi was here to negotiate and secure our information. While we will remain neutral in this war, make no mistake. If you ever trespass on our planet again, there will be bloodshed."

Palpatine sucked his teeth. "I'll remember that," he remarked nonchalantly. "Good day, Madam President."


Count Dooku peered out from his palace's windows. He observed the lush forests of Serenno until a holotransmission sounded. Upon activating the projector, a blue-hued...hooded figure flickered before him. Dooku knelt down and murmured, "Master."

"Lord Tyranus," the Sith Lord said. "I understand Avinaria will not be joining the Separatist cause. Why?"

"The Jedi was able to retrieve the Republic spy. With Avinaria's neutrality no longer in question, promoting the confederacy would lead to war."

"We are no strangers to invading worlds," Lord Sidious said. "Avinaria would be no different. Then a Republic offensive would be justified."

"Perhaps Avinaria is not within our best interests," Dooku considered. "Might I suggest we divert our attention towards your greater goals? The Republic is searching for the Nexus Route."

"Those in search of that hyperspace route shall be dealt with," Sidious said. "Still, I am curious about your leniency towards Avinaria."

"Master?" Dooku inquired.

"Perhaps the eldest Dellian girl has gotten to you. You said you had spoken to her while you were on the planet. I would hate to think you are seeking a replacement for your apprentice."

"Of course not, my lord." Dooku assured.

"I ordered you to eliminate Ventress for a reason," Sidious intoned. "Do not liken yourself to this child because she too has royal blood." Dooku hung his head at Sidious' words. "Still...we will watch her career with great interest. In time, she will call me master."

Author's Note:I want to thank you so much for reading this week's chapter of 'The Frozen Force'. As always, it is an honor and pleasure to entertain you. Bringing you this weekly adventure is a dream come true so I thank you so much for letting me share this journey with you. I want to take a moment to discuss a few things. Firstly, I will continue to appreciate you all and bring this story to you. Thank you for your patience each week for our Frozen Force Fridays. I love you all so much and value your kindness. Hearing how much you enjoy this story has only made me want to better it and keep entertaining. As of late, my mental health has been going through some shifts and changes for the better. As I learn and grow, I appreciate your patience. Should any complications arise in the future, I seek to be open with you all and keep you updated. But for now, I'll see you next week!

Long Live Imagination and May the Force be with You

~ Michael